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Welcome to Y Magazine – your top

guide to the best of Oman every week.

As the carnage on our roads continues, one has to wonder when safety and driver education will become a priority in Oman. While road accidents and fatalities actually dropped in 2015 compared with the previous year, it has to be said that we have not started 2016 on a positive note.

In fact, two bus crashes in a matter of weeks – near Nizwa on January 28 and on the road to Ibri on March 1 – have taken the lives of 25 people and injured dozens of others, some of them critically.

In our cover story this week, Y investigates bus safety in Oman in the wake of these fatal accidents as grief and despair is replaced by anger about what is being done by the authorities to ensure the safety of passengers.

Parents of children from Indian School Nizwa are still awaiting answers about the bus crash that killed four pupils, a much-loved teacher, as well as the bus and truck drivers as they returned from a field trip. Their biggest fear, and rightly so, is that their precious children lost their lives in vain and they will become nothing more than a statistic.

Meanwhile, police in Fahud have described the bus accident in March as the worst they have ever been called out to attend. Eighteen lives were lost on this day, while 16 others were injured.

Road safety experts are blaming impatience and a lack of training and awareness for professional drivers plying routes around the Sultanate, while poorly lit roads are also to blame.

But as Daryle Hardie, the CEO of Safety First, told Y: “It shouldn’t take more accidents and deaths for the authorities to realise that we need a proper bus management system and this can’t keep happening.”

He’s right. And it needs to happen urgently.

Fast forward

Sw

contentsM A R C H 1 7 - 2 3 2 0 1 6

Yo u r O m a n06 Coffee With Y Yousuf Al Nahwi

08 Voice Of Oman Matt Blackwell

10 News Oman’s Tourism Award

12 Faces Of Oman Photo Series

14 Gallery Horse Racing

15 Hyundai – Driven To Success Saif Al Manji

T h i s We e k

16 Movies The Divergent Series: Allegiant

18 This Week The T Band Live

H e a l t h a n d B e a u t y32 Fashion Dressing Mum

34 Beauty First Impressions

35 Health Under Pressure

10

33

Fe at u r e s20 Time For Change Why We Must Stop The Carnage On Oman’s Roads

24 A Storm In Photos The Sultanate’s Soaking

26 Goal Hunting Red Warriors Gear Up For Guam

C a r s a n d A d v e n t u r e s38 Destination Wadi Bani Khalid

40 Outdoors Camel Crazy

42 Postcard From Gran Canaria

44 Y-Fi Car Gear

46 Car Of The Week Ford Focus

44

FEATURES / COFFEE WITH Y / NEWS / MOVIES / EVENTS / FOOD / DESTINATION / TRAVEL/ FASHION / OUTDOORS

NEXT ISSUE...

18

20

Fo o d a n d D r i n k28 Food Feature Beautiful Blending

30 Taste Test Zen Asian Bistro

28

Y meets Yousuf al Nahwi, a plastic artist, teacher and photographer whose

recent work has opened Omani art up to an international audienceTraining art students at the Sultan Qaboos University is what Yousuf al Nahwi does in his free time. But there’s a lot more that the adept Omani artist wants to do – especially when it comes to making an impact with his life-sized art.Dressed in simple clothes, it’s hard to believe how humble a man of his stature can be. Yousuf may be a member of the Oman Art Society and European

Artists, a Germany-based non-profit association made up of 50 professional artists worldwide, but he exudes passion and love for local Omani talent. He says nothing gives him more pleasure and satisfaction than hosting private exhibitions in places such as Oman Avenues Mall and other areas of public interest where people come in large numbers to draw inspiration.

He adds that boosting interest in various forms of art within the public is “key in forming a strong heritage”.

“Before starting a painting, I make sure that the topic will be something close to my heart,” says Yousuf. “It would have to touch me from within, and I must be able to relate to it before I can let it take shape.” Despite his teaching obligations, Yousuf frequently takes time out to travel, in an effort to capture images for his work, using a DSLR camera for the job. For instance, his work titled

World Peace, took him all the way to London, UK, after months of searching for the right set of saluki dogs he wanted to feature in his painting.

“World Peace depicts a gazelle being chased by a bunch of saluki dogs,” says Yousuf, who explains that the gazelle is symbolic of Oman and the dogs the outside world. “I believe Oman is a very peaceful country despite influence

from other countries in the region.We’ve been running away from their grip in efforts to keep our country peaceful.”

Talking about the painting, Yousuf says that he was quite lucky to have spent time with the two saluki dogs, which he stumbled upon at the home of his friend in

UK, while participating in an event at the Nature in Art Museum in Gloucester. This, he says, enabled him to understand the dynamics of the dogs.

When asked why he was fussy about the right set of dogs, he answers: “It’s because they were just perfect for the setting”. He then goes on to describe how important saluki dogs were to Bedouins in Oman, and how hunters in the desert considered them as best friends rather than domestic pets.Before he realised his dream and entered mainstream artistry, Yousuf says that he would’ve never thought of a career in art if it weren’t for his family and friends. “By the age of 12, I knew I was

sketching phenomenal paintings; something that my peers could never recreate,” he jokes. “But I only realised my potential during my time pursuing a degree in computer science in Bengaluru [Bangalore], India,” he adds. He recollects how his friends pushed him to publish his artworks in inter-college events, before discovering he was standing out even among the most creative Indian artists. It was this boost, he recalls, that

changed his life. “Winning awards from reputed institutions such as the Hindustan University and the Christ University really bought a fresh perspective in me,” he says. In a career that spans over five years, Yousuf has created seven life-sized paintings, and several smaller landscape and portrait paintings. The former, being the highlight of his career, measure five metres by 2.2 metres and are finished in acrylic, before being etched with traditional Islamic designs.

In 2010, Yousuf also assisted a team of artists in giving life to a 43.99-squared metre mosaic image of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos

Bin Said Al Said, a feat that won him a place in the Guinness World Records book. However, Yousuf put a hold on every effort to delve deeper into his other works as an artist, as he reveals his most prized work is a painting of His Majesty. And boy,

it’s an absolute masterpiece!Sitting on his horse, clad in a traditional Omani dishdasha is His Majesty, as he leads “forward” a group of artists, including Anwar Sonya, better known as the father of Omani art, who Yousuf believes inspired and helped him become a professional artist. The picture, titled Pride of Time, was the artist’s ultimate dream and he says that it was his gift to His Majesty and the people of the country. He currently displays

the painting alongside his other works, at exhibitions around the Sultanate.Talking about young Omani talent, Yousuf says that a lot of artists have come into the limelight

in recent years. But he believes a lot of them have shied away due to a lack of support from family members and the fear of not being able to sustain themselves properly by pursuing art as a professional career.

However, being an instructor at the Sultan Qaboos University, he says, enables him to support budding youth, the majority of whom he says are “motivated individuals”. He adds that he enjoys giving talks about how he became an artist, and he believes telling them about his journey will only inspire them further to follow their own dreams.By the end, an enthusiastic Yousuf tells us that he will be completing his new project later this year. Revealing nothing more

than a smile and a wink when pressed more about the painting, he cuts me off. But we’ll be looking forward to catching him with his new work soon.

Have you got a unique story to tell or do you know someone who has? Contact us to have coffee with Y and be featured in Y Magazine. Email: editor@y-oman.com

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 6

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 8

LIGHTS OUT

correspondenceTHE VOICE OF OMAN MATT BLACKWELL SAYS GOODBYE

NEXT WEEK: YUMMY MUMMY

All good things come to an end, as they say, and now, my stint in Oman is all but over.

Going back to June 2014 when I first applied for a position with Y, I couldn’t even point Oman out on a map. Fast-forward to 2016 and I have developed a deep fondness and appreciation for the country that has become my home. What will I be taking from my 19-month stay in the Sultanate? First and foremost, some amazing memories.

How many of my friends back home in the UK can say that they’ve abseiled down the side of a hotel, snorkelled with turtles and sharks at the Daymaniyat Islands and Mina al Fahal, conquered the dunes of Sharqiya Sands in a 4x4, put a Porsche through its paces on the winding mountain roads to Sifah and performed on stage at the Royal Opera House?

There is so much about Oman that I will miss, from using my weekends to discover some of the Sultanate’s best wadis, beaches and mountains with my six-month-old puppy and trusty partner in crime, Scotch, to simply meeting up and hanging out with a circle of friends that includes Americans, Italians, French, Filipinos, Indians, Jordanians, Lebanese, Omanis and more.

But as my journey to the UK (via Amsterdam to account for bringing Scotch to his new home) draws nearer, I’m beginning to look ahead to my next adventure.

What will I be doing? I’m not sure. Which country will I be doing it in? I haven’t decided yet. But if I could recommend one thing to everyone, it is to travel far and wide. It opens your eyes to cultures you never knew existed and will leave you a much wiser and tolerant person who is simply content with life.

Dear Editor,

My 18-year stay in the Sultanate of Oman has been full of appreciation for its governance and authorities, for a host of ever-updated pro-civic approaches, which are reviewed and improved over time.

One such action is a timed system for lighting streets. However, this generic rule of thumb could be highly dangerous, especially in the recent days of havoc caused by the rain, when floods ravaged roads and affected commuting vehicles.

I experienced a great deal of inconvenience and confusion recently, when just after 5.30am, the lights on the road from the airport up to City Centre Muscat were off. It was a horror to have the dazzling lights of the vehicles on the opposite side of

Dear Team Y,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the article “Farewell to Friends” [Issue 411]. As a mother of two daughters, it really was

THANK YOU Y

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

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an eye-opener for me. Because my eldest daughter is currently in that situation, this article helped me to understand her feelings well. For the past few weeks, my daughter has repeatedly been talking about two of her friends who are shifting to India for further studies. They are very close to her and now that they are leaving she is very much disappointed.

Thanks to this article I understood how serious her situation was and how I can offer her support at this time. After reading the article, I shared with her my experience of leaving friends and made her feel better by saying that even though we are physically apart, we can still be close through social media like

WhatsApp. I also suggested that she give them a gift as a token of remembrance.

This article helped me to talk freely with my daughter, so thanks to the author and Team Y.

Regards,Subbashini M, Muscat

the road falling on commuters, who were suddenly taken off-guard because the lights were off at that critical hour. The incessant rains only added to the plight.

The severity of the rain was to an extent that even the car wipers could not cope. But help came at Al Hail, where the lights were still on.

This jittery experience compels me to seek review of this timed system by the authorities, keeping in mind the inclement weather and sunrise and setting times that go with stormy days of this kind. Though this may seem like trivia, it could mean a lot should an accident occur.

Regards, Dr Bhaskara Rao Suddapalli, Ruwi

it is better not make children think that violence is fun, as these games mainly target to make out.

SALEHA HAROON I wouldn’t like my children playing violent games because I think they may become numb to violence, imitate the violence and show more aggressive behaviour. However, in moderation, playing age-appropriate games can be enjoyable and healthy. Many video games promote learning, problem solving and help with the development of mental skills and coordination. These games would be more appropriate for younger children.

ANTONY VETTIYAZHICKAL JOSEPH I am not well educated enough to know the intricacies and so I go with the majority of research findings. Around two thirds of the global community feels that violent video games are not inappropriate. We should treat them as games and in a way, they can prepare and mould young minds to face such onslaughts more effectively with determination. After all, the present generation knows that they are just games.

SUDIP SUBEDI In my opinion, violent games are appropriate for children because nowadays, the lives of people all over the world are complicated. We need to struggle either physically or mentally to achieve things in each and every aspect of our

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 9

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WE ASKED: “Are violent video games appropriate for children?”

WAFAA EL ANANY I think there are levels. Some games are excessively violent and killing is the sole goal, but most have a story or reason for the violence. Because you can easily build so many stories around violence, there are tons of great violent games. The thing that makes people angry is a build up of frustration when playing a hard game, so it’s best just to let them play if the game is easy enough and they’re old enough to tell what’s wrong and what’s right.

USHA DEVI SUDDAPALLI In this I am guided by my daughter, who is a neonatologist in the US and has insights into child psychology. I am firm in my view that violent video games are not appropriate for children. Children have developing brains and minds and these violent video games can adversely impact them. A review of literature indicates that they can make children more aggressive, addicted and develop fighting tendencies, which can destroy relationships. Many feel that there is already a lot of violence in the world and so

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lives. To get the knowledge of struggling and to provide a remedy to any troubled circumstances, such video games offer lessons for children.

MOHAMMAD OSAMA RAWAT In my personal opinion, violent video games are not good for children, as they serve as an introduction to violence for their tender brains, which could have a negative impact on their personality.

SYED BOKHARI Children at tender and sensitive ages have developing minds and brains. They learn very quickly by observing their surroundings. The present world is already deprived of peace, tolerance and love, so violent video games will just be like adding salt to the wound and will naturally have an adverse impact on children. They may destroy relationships too.

We’ve all known for ages that the Sultanate is the most beautiful country in the region and now it looks like others are finally

beginning to catch on to the secret.Oman has just been named Best Arabian

Tourist Destination at the ITB Berlin trade fair, which concluded recently.

Earning such recognition will help Oman’s quest to position itself as a major player in the tourism market in the Middle East and the world, as it seeks to shift away from a reliance on oil.

Europe is a key sector for attracting visitors to the Sultanate and ITB Berlin is one of the largest trade shows in the world. Accepting the awards given by Go Asia website, His Excellency Ahmed bin Nasser al Mahrizi, the Minister of Tourism, told delegates that the Sultanate is one of the fastest growing tourism destinations around the world.

For the first time in its history, Muscat International Airport exceeded 10 million passengers in 2015, an 18 per cent increase, and welcomed one million passengers in the month of August, a milestone, which was also reached for the first time.

The new Salalah International Airport, which opened last year, broke its own historic traffic record, surpassing the one million passenger mark, an increase of 22 per cent.

Muscat’s new airport is reportedly on track to open at the end of this year or early 2017 and a host of new hotels and resorts are springing up.

This week, it was revealed that the $600 million (RO231 millon) integrated tourism complex Saraya Bandar Jissah, taking shape near Qantab, will be ready for its first residents at the beginning of next year, pushing ahead despite low oil prices affecting some construction projects. A five-star Jumeirah Group hotel is set to open at the same time.

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 1 0

N E W SYOUR OMAN OMAN SCOOPS

TOURISM AWARD

When it comes to being creative with food, Y readers have proved to be quite a dab hand in

the kitchen.To celebrate Mothers’ Day on March

21, Semsom restaurant, which can be found in Muscat Grand Mall and offers Lebanese cuisine with a twist, asked you to take part in a competition to come up with ways to give their new shawarma dish a tangy twist.

Up for grabs for the winner was a tasty RO20 gift voucher.

We had lots of entries with all sorts of ideas ranging from pepping things up with green chilli to tamarind, and ginger to molasses.

In the end, it was the suggestion of Sumac served up by Shahana Abdurahiman that caught the Semsom judges’ eye and clinched her the prize.

Congratulations Shahana! We’ll be in touch soon about your prize.

Thanks to everyone who took part.

RECIPE FOR A WIN

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 1 1

N E W S

Mums are the best and sometimes we don’t always show her how much we appreciate what she does for us. Which is why Y Magazine has teamed up with Puck to give the kids of Oman a chance to let their mums know exactly what she means to them with our Mother’s Day

card competition.Timed to coincide with Mother’s Day in the GCC, which is celebrated

on March 21, there’s a chance to win a share of total cash prizes worth RO350 – enough to really treat your mum to something special.

There’s still time to enter. Simply pick up one of the cards from Y’s office in Seeb, Muscat, and let your imagination run loose with your personal message to your mum. It’s your chance to say it with love!

Be creative: last year we saw poems, drawings and elaborate designs.Take your completed card to one of our drop boxes below. Closing

date is tomorrow (Friday, March 18).

To Mum With Love COMPETITION

BOXES CAN BE FOUND AT:

● All Gloria Jean’s Coffees outlets around Muscat: Muscat Grand Mall, The Walk at Al Mouj Muscat, Fun Zone in Qurum (next to Qurum Natural Park) and Knowledge Oasis Muscat● Markaz Al Bahja Mall ● Panorama Mall

Three winners will be awarded their prizes with their mum in a special ceremony at Markaz Al Bahja Mall on March 21.Good luck!

acesfOmanofWelcome to Y’s new weekly photo series that aims to profile the diverse characters who call the Sultanate home

Name: Yasmeen al Ghezely Age: Eight From: QuriyatBio: Yasmeen lives with her parents and in her free time she loves playing with her friends.

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 1 2

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 1 4

G A L L E R Y

THOROUGHBRED HORSES WERE ON SHOW AT THE AL RAHBA RACECOURSE IN BARKA FOR THE ROYAL HORSE RACING CLUB AT THE WEEKEND

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age, with the aim of creating future engineers. Oman is massively growing with the expansion of Duqm, Sohar and Salalah, and in 10 years, they will need 400 per cent more engineers according to growth figures. My parents wanted me to be an engineer, but I wasn’t exposed to it when I was young, which is why I want to give children the choice of engineering as a viable career option.

Q: What do you think of the Centennial, the premium series of Hyundai Motor Company?

The Centennial has really been impressive from the first moment. It looks premium and sporty in terms of external design, feels luxurious when you drive it and it has safety technology that is truly cutting-edge. For those who love a powerful engine, the Centennial will truly impress with its performance, driving dynamics and great handling capabilities. I loved my moments with this car.

Q: What drives you to success?The hunger of adding value to the community

and society is my main drive. In every action I make, I ask myself: “How can people benefit from what I do? What more can I do?” My satisfaction comes from helping others. Making money or making a name for myself is not the goal; it’s the result.

Q: Who or what has been your inspiration in your career?

Inspiration is found in everything, every day.

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 1 5

After studying management at Sultan Qaboos University, Saif al Manji began working in human resources for an oil company before moving into consultancy. Looking for a challenge and with a passion for science, Saif, 24, set up Engineering For Kids at Panorama Mall in Muscat, bringing maths, science, technology and engineering alive for youngsters in a fun environment. He talks about his life while taking the new Centennial for a spin

From my parents, teachers and friends to the kids in Engineering for Kids. They have high expectations of me and I am working hard to meet their expectations.

Q: What is your biggest career success to date?

Starting up Engineering for Kids and managing to train more than 300 kids in less than a year. It’s been hard at times. It was a risk to start from scratch and I had no experience before. I had been researching different curriculums for kids, as it was something I wanted to get involved in and I came across Engineering for Kids. I had to travel to the States and it took six months to get into place. As it was new to Oman, people were not sure what it’s purpose was. I’m very proud of how far we have come.

Q: What are your career goals?I would like to be a source of inspiration to

future leaders of Oman. I want to participate in the process of creating leaders and fostering that ambition from a young age. It’s a responsibility, but I am very passionate about making a difference in children’s lives.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

To have my own applied science-based school in Oman. It would switch focus from theoretical study to practical from an early

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Bollywatch

The Other Side of the Door

Attempting to reach her deceased son for a final goodbye, distraught mother Maria (Sarah Wayne Callies) visits an abandoned temple, where one of the doors acts as a portal between worlds. Opening it, Maria unwittingly disrupts the balance between the land of the living and the dead and suffers the supernatural consequences. Setting the action in India is a novel idea, providing some

The Divergent Series: Allegiant

MOVIES MOVIESgood local colour and a respite from the US-centric films of Hollywood. While the scares are solid, The Other Side of the Door brings nothing new to the horror genre. This doesn’t necessarily make it a bad movie, though.

Martyrs

Based on a 2008 French cult horror film of the same name, Martyrs tells the story of Lucie (Troian Bellisario), who managed to escape from the family that was subjecting her to torture when she was 10 years old. As a grown woman, she is still plagued by demons and nightmares and resolves to track down those who were responsible for her pain. Finding her one-time captors, Lucie discovers a secret society with a grisly agenda. Not one for the faint of heart or stomach, Martyrs serves up your fairly standard torture fare, popularised by the likes of the Saw franchise.

KI AND KA Providing a humorous take on the traditional gender roles in Indian society, Ki and Ka follows the young married couple of Kia (Kareena Kapoor), a high-flying businesswoman, and househusband Kabir (Arjun Kapoor), as they challenge outdated conventions. Audiences are sure to be given their fair share of surprises when the film is released in Oman later this month.

If you’re completely new to The Divergent Series, look away now – there are several spoilers ahead.

In a society where people are divided into different factions based on their virtues, the “Divergents” are those who do not fit into any one group and are targeted for destruction.

After toppling the tyrannical Jeanine, Tris (Shailene Woodley) and Four (Theo James) make the decision to go beyond the city walls, discovering the Bureau of Genetic Welfare in the process, from which they learn everything going on inside the city is just a social experiment in genetics.

Unsure of who to trust, Tris, Four and their friends find themselves with difficult choices to make about where

their allegiance lies and what sacrifices need to be made.

Allegiant is the final instalment in the trilogy of novels, but its big screen counterpart has been split into two films, which is annoying, but par for the course with young adult movies these days – we have Harry Potter, Twilight and The Hunger Games to thank for that.

Invariably, this leads to a distinct sense of padding, with some scenes unnecessarily extended, while others are thrown in for no clear reason. Still, if Divergent is your kind of dystopia, you’ll have to wait a whole year until you find out what happens to Tris and the gang.

Review by Matt Blackwell

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ALL ROADS LEAD

TO ROME

As she attempts to rekindle relations with her estranged teenage daughter, Summer (Rosie Day), Maggie (Sarah Jessica Parker) takes a trip to Italy, where she runs into former lover Luca (Raoul Bova), who is still a bachelor living with his elderly mother, Carmen (Claudia Cardinale). After Summer steals Luca’s car and drives to Rome, Maggie and Luca head off in pursuit, giving them the chance to catch up as feelings start to blossom once more. PR

EVIE

W

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 1 6

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 1 8

THIS WEEKM A R C H

WHAT TO DO.

WHAT TO SEE.

WHAT TO HEAR.

T H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

See local celebrity musicians, The T-Band, for an evening of great live entertainment at the John Barry Bar in the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel. With lead singer Tarek Khorshid, The T-Band are renowned throughout Muscat and beyond for their energetic performances and crowd-pleasing songs. Band starts playing at 7.30pm. Guest list only. Call 9507 7670 or email muscat.dining@hyatt.com

Get your tickets now for what promises to be a wonderful and unforgettable experience for children and families. This Royal Opera House Muscat production of Mozart’s most loved masterpiece, The Magic Flute or Defeating The Monsters, is perfect to give youngsters a first peak into the magical world of opera. Both performances start at 4.30pm and tickets are priced from RO3 to RO35. To discover more, check out rohm.org.om

Anyone who is anything in oil and gas will be heading to the Oman International Exhibition Centre in Seeb, Muscat, for this event. Oil & Gas West Asia (OGWA) 2016 is a biennial exhibition that brings together local and international oil companies from the GCC under one roof giving them a platform to discuss the latest developments of the industries. It’s a great networking opportunity and a chance to pick up some new business. Open from 10am-7pm all three days. There’s also a related conference running from 20-23 March at the nearby Golden Tulip Seeb Hotel. For more info, go to ogwaexpo.com GOLFING GIRLS

Magic Opera

This one is strictly for the girls. Ladies Lesson ‘N’ Latte at Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club offers a six-week beginner golf programme with PGA Professional Jade Lucas. It’s a great introduction to the game, while meeting new people and having some fun at the same time. Cost is RO60 per person for six one-hour lessons with a free coffee after each class. Days are Tuesdays at 11am and Thursdays at 8.30am. For more information, email jade@muscatgolf.com or call 9829 2580.

T Time

NOWSIGN UP

22MAR

Natural Resources

22Mar 23&

21M

ar23

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M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 1 9

G a l l e r y M o v i e s

Magic Opera

If being in the spotlight has always been your dream, then the Royal Opera House Muscat could make it a reality. Extras are needed to take part in a forthcoming opera, La Fille Du Regiment, offering an extraordinary opportunity to go behind the scenes. There’s plenty of chances to get involved with roles for 16 men and seven women as soldiers/valets, peasants and nobles. Age range from 20-30. The actual performances are on three nights, May 11-14, but you’ll need to be available for all scheduled costume fittings and rehearsals, starting May 4. Closing date for extra applications is March 21. To be considered, send a full length photograph of yourself plus one headshot to extras@rohmuscat.org with a covering email giving some details about yourself (including name, age, height, clothing size and a contact number). For more info, go to rohmuscat.org.om

Extra

Speci

al

If you’re going to have a bored teenager on your hands during the spring break, signing them up to attend a youth leadership camp across the border in the UAE could be the answer. The ABAMI camp helps students realise their potential on a journey of self-discovery, building leadership skills along the way. It’s also fun and great for making new friends. Ages 13-16. Camps are being held at adventure centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Timings are 10am-4pm. To register, call 04 4471548 or email info@abami.ae. For more info, check out abami.org

CAMP KIDS21MAR

Mar27-29

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 2 0

WITH 25 PEOPLE KILLED IN BUS ACCIDENTS IN THE FIRST THREE MONTHS OF THIS YEAR,

MATT BLACKWELL AND KATE GINN LOOK INTO WHY THEY ARE SO DANGEROUS AND WHAT

NEEDS TO BE DONE

As the clock ticked past midnight on March 1, many of the passengers travelling from Salalah to Dubai by bus would have been settling down for the night. Some had recently taken small

meals in the nearby oil town of Fahud, while others could well have been dropping off to sleep, knowing there were still many kilometres to travel before they reached their final destination.

They were wrong.At around 12.30 in the morning a deafening sound

rang through the coach as the vehicle collided head-on with a truck on the road to Ibri. Some people were thrown through windows, while other passengers remained trapped in the wreckage. The deep crimson of blood was everywhere according to the first rescuers on the scene and chaos ensued amid the cries for help from those who managed to retain consciousness.

As dawn broke later that day, shedding light on the site of the accident, it was revealed to be one of complete

carnage. Shattered glass, rags, tyres and other debris littered the scene, while the cab of the truck was just a mangled ball of metal, metres away from its load-carrying trailer. Poignantly though, a string of prayer beads was still visible in the twisted metal of the wreck.

As the numbers came in, it was announced that 18 people lost their lives in the crash, while 16 were injured, with wounds ranging from minor to severe, making it one of the worst accidents in recent history.

Two days after the fatal Ibri crash, Adil Hamed and Hamoud Hamed are waiting nervously outside the intensive care unit of Ibri Hospital, waiting for any news or change in the condition of their 27-year-old brother Ahmed, who was in the crash and is now fighting for survival.

On the ward, doctors carefully attend to Ahmed’s injuries as his life hangs in the balance; the only sound audible above the murmuring of the medical staff is the continuous beep of the life-support machines.

TIMEforCHANGE

Phot

os: M

att B

lack

well

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 2 1

Both Ahmed and another Bangladeshi man, also in the crash, are being treated for severe head injuries.

“The condition of the Bagladeshi is serious and is still not stable, but Ahmed is a little better,” says Humaid al Gharibi, one of the nurses in the intensive care unit. “They do not need an operation, it is just a case of treating them and waiting to see what happens.”

Ahmed works in Salalah for the military and was travelling home to Ibri to spend some time with his loved ones.

“The whole family is feeling very sad. Everyone comes during visiting hours to see Ahmed every day,” Adil tells Y.

“We ask the authorities to bring our brother closer to home to work because then he would not have to travel.

“It would be better to make the buses safer, not just for us, but for people in the future.”

Elaborating further on the accident that shocked his family, Hamound explains: “Our uncle heard the news first. He was waiting near the Wali’s office at 1am to meet him [Ahmed]. He was waiting for several hours

and became worried. Then he heard the news of the crash through telephone and WhatsApp.

“We don’t know exactly how it happened, but we have heard that the truck driver crossed onto the same side of the bus and hit it.”

Earlier this month, the latest statistics from the Royal Oman Police’s (ROP) Directorate General of Traffic Facts

and Figures 2016 revealed that the number of road accidents and deaths dropped considerably in 2015 when compared to the previous year.

There were 6,717 accidents leading to 816 deaths in 2014, compared to 675 deaths and 6,279 accidents last year. While this is undoubtedly progress, the stark truth remains that these statistics still equate to more than 17 road accidents around the country every day and an average of 56 deaths every month. As Humaid says, there are weeks when his hospital will receive and treat victims from road traffic accidents every single day.

Twenty-five people – including several schoolchildren – lost their lives in less than five weeks between the end of January and beginning of March this year alone.

The Ibri crash happened just a handful of kilometres away from where an accident involving a school bus claimed the lives of seven people – four of them schoolchildren – close to Nizwa on January 28. The bus was carrying 33 Indian School Nizwa Class II students back from a field trip to Bahla when it collided with a truck carrying frozen fish as the driver attempted a U-turn at a notoriously dangerous spot on Route 15. Children were thrown around the tumbling vehicle as it rolled several times.

Not a single child on the bus escaped without an injury of some kind. As well as four children, Ruya Aman, Mohammed Shammas, Jaden Jaison and Siya Sabu, aged between seven and eight, three more lives were lost that day; much loved teacher, Deepali Sandip Seth, and both the bus and truck drivers.

Seven weeks to the day, anguished parents are still waiting for an accident report from the Indian Schools Board, which oversees

all Indian schools in Oman, about the crash that devastated the school and left a community in

mourning.

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 2 2

Feelings of despair and grief are being replaced by ones of anger and deep resentment at a growing feeling the accident and the loss of lives is simply being brushed under the carpet to become just another statistic.

“Parents are very upset and angry. They are now resenting that nothing has happened since the accident,” says Akhilesh Kumar, a parent who is acting as an unofficial spokesman for all the parents involved at Indian School Nizwa.

“It’s more than six weeks now and [we] are still waiting for the enquiry. We feel that we are being ignored or fobbed off. Parents don’t want to forget and forgive. They want justice.”

Akhilesh also works as a senior pharmacist and HOD - Medical Stores at Nizwa Hospital, where the bodies and the injured were taken after the crash. He can still remember the awful sight of ashen-faced parents running around the chaotic wards trying to find out if their child was dead or alive.

Until, or if, the internal report comes out, there won’t be any answers to the most pressing questions, which parents from Indian School Nizwa want answered. These include: “Was the bus fitted with seatbelts? If so, why did the children not wear them and if not, why did the school allow the trip to go ahead, putting the pupils’ lives at risk?” and “What safety checks did the school make on the bus and driver?”

The bus driver was said to be in his late 60s and there are claims that the bus was overcrowded, with a pupil forced to sit on the knee of the teacher, Mrs Deepali.

According to Akhilesh Kumar, several of the parents met with the Ambassador at the Indian Embassy in Muscat on February 18 to discuss their concerns.

One of their, it would seem legitimate concerns, is that the enquiry into the accident is being carried out by the Indian Schools Board and not independent observers, who might give a more objective view.

“We, as the parents, do not trust this enquiry if members of the board are involved,” says Akhilesh, who has a son at Indian School Nizwa and once served on the management committee.

“There should be a separate taskforce with experts who can give a proper independent view.

“Many of us are parents and thinking what shall we do? There’s no enquiry, we’re being ignored and nothing is happening.

“Some parents are talking about going to the public prosecution.”He claims that a letter signed by hundreds of parents sent to the

chairman of Indian Schools’ Board of Directors, Wilson V George, asking about the enquiry’s progress has not had a response.

Y Magazine has also tried to contact Mr George on several occasions, including this week, but have had no response to phone calls, text messages or an emailed list of questions about the enquiry.

Back at the ROP station in Fahud, where the wreckage of the coach is being stored, it is a wonder that anyone made it out alive at all. The investigation into the exact cause of the accident is ongoing and no one was able to tell Y when it may conclude, however, it was said that it will most likely take a “long time”. An ROP source did say that it was the worst accident they had ever experienced in the area.

While the exact set of circumstances that led to the Nizwa bus crash might never be known and families of victims in the Ibri incident will have to wait until the results of the investigation are made public, Mark Atkins, chief examiner (international) for DIAmond Advanced Motorists, a UK-

based company that accredits training providers here in Oman and around the world, believes he can already point out some of the key factors at play.

“The training is probably the number one problem in Oman. It is probably not adequate enough,” says Mark, who has a background of 25 years in road safety and has worked in Malaysia, Qatar, Iraq and Eastern Europe. “A lot of bus companies will ensure that their drivers have a licence, but insist on no further training.

“On a long journey like that [Salalah to Dubai], fatigue comes into play, as could the road type, which was unlit and narrow.

“If we understand correctly, the bus driver was trying to avoid a truck that was on his side of the road. That could have been a fatigue issue on the part of the truck, rather than the bus driver doing anything wrong.

“He has said he sounded his horn and flashed his lights three times, but he didn’t say anything about braking.

“There appears to be quite a lot of speeding and impatience. They are very long and monotonous roads [in the Interior]. As a result, speed tends to pick up and concentration drops,” Mark says.

“Most of the people are thinking about time pressure and not about the risks because they do

not have the training,” adds Mohammed Hamed al Shuaili, chairman of Safety Cooperation Services (SCS), an accredited private training institute established in 2003 that offers defensive driving tuition among other services.

“People push drivers to hurry, which makes them take short cuts. The Ibri road was 25 minutes shorter compared to the Nizwa route.” But, as Mark is quick to point out, it is a lot more dangerous.

Both Mark and Mohammed admit that the driver training courses for buses and heavy vehicles are not as popular as they should be in Oman. They explain that when a client enforces driver training upon a contractor, they do it because they must. It is rarely a personal choice and there is no incentive to continue professional development and uphold standards.

According to Mark, the journey to safer roads begins with four Es: engineering (is the road and are the vehicles fit for purpose?), education (are the drivers and passengers wearing their seatbelts and aware of the risks of driving?), enforcement (are there speed cameras and regular police patrols?) and encouragement, which comes through road safety adverts and

IT IS TIME FOR CHANGE. WE CAN POINT FINGERS AND BLAME INDIVIDUALS, BUT

IT’S A COLLECTIVE GROUP OF PEOPLE AND OPERATORS THAT

ARE AT FAULT

01OCTOBER 18. 2010: Three students from Middle East College of Information and Technology in Muscat are killed and 31 injured, three critically, when a tyre burst on their college bus, causing it to lose control and hit a parked car.

02MARCH 2011: One student is killed and 45 injured, three of them seriously, when their school bus is hit by a truck at Al Sawadi junction in Barka.

03MAY 2012: Six college students and a driver of the bus they were travelling in are injured when their vehicle collides with a car on Al Draiz Road, Ibri.

04NOVEMBER 2012: A 10-year-old student from Indian School Seeb dies and 14 fellow pupils are injured when the school minivan they were travelling in hit a road divider.

05 NOVEMBER 2013: A six-year-old pupil from Indian School Darsait suffers head injuries after he fell out of the window of a school bus.

06JANUARY 2014: A school bus carrying Pakistan School Muscat students crashes into a rubbish truck, killing three children and injuring 24, two of them critically.

07FEBRUARY 2014: A school bus carrying 37 Indian School Sur pupils crashes head-on into another car, killing the driver and a seven-year-old student on the bus.

08APRIL 2014: A bus carrying students from Indian School Wadi Kabir is involved in an accident near the Sheraton signal, injuring four pupils.

09 OCTOBER 2014: A school bus skids and overturns in Bidbid, leaving four children with minor injuries.

10 NOVEMBER 2014: Three students from Indian School Darsait suffer minor injuries when two school buses collide in Ruwi.

11 MAY 2015: A university bus with 24 passengers on board overturns after its brakes fail, injuring nine students.

12SEPTEMBER 30, 2015: A school minibus carrying students from Al Baraeim School collides with a car in Mudhaibi, killing an Omani student and injuring 13 other children.

13JANUARY 2016: A school bus carrying students from Indian School Nizwa collides with a truck, killing the two drivers, two students and a teacher instantly. Two more pupils die in hospital from their injuries, bringing the death toll to seven.

14MARCH 1: 18 die and 16 injured after a bus travelling from Salalah to Dubai smashes head-on with a truck on the Fahud to Ibri road. A saloon car then slammed into the wreckage.

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 2 3

campaigns, something that he believes is severely lacking in Oman.The string of recent accidents has thrown buses into the spotlight and

while there are whispers of change, including the idea of all school buses coming under the regulations of the new-look Mwasalat service among other things, the question has to be asked: how many more innocent people have to needlessly suffer before concrete action is taken?

Since the Ibri crash, officials are said to be discussing ways to make that stretch of road safer. This would include better maintenance, improved lighting and wider hard shoulders along the 214km-long road.

While any steps to reduce risks are laudable, there are some who are asking whether it’s too little too late.

As Daryle Hardie, CEO of Safety First, an independent non-profit road safety organisation in Oman, points out: “It shouldn’t take more accidents and deaths for the authorities to realise that we need a proper bus management system and this can’t keep happening.

“It is time for change. We can point fingers and blame individuals, but it’s a collective group of people and operators that are at fault.”

Oman still holds the dubious honour of one of the worst rates of accidents on the roads in the GCC, a title that surely should be incentive enough for the government and authorities to act.

Awareness seems to be an uphill battle. Making a call this week, Y discovered that Safety First, which was co-

founded in 2012 by Hamed al Wahaibi, Oman’s rally champion, and football star Ali al Habsi, has “closed until further notice”. The news seems to be a sad indictment of the lack of support – financially and otherwise – that road safety groups face. That even the backing of high profile stars was apparently not enough to attract government or corporate funding for such an important cause raises questions of its own.

Safety First’s campaigning work – to reduce the number of traffic accidents and fatalities on the Sultanate’s roads by 50 per cent by 2020 – will continue behind the scenes. Those involved say it is “hibernating” and

hopefully will relaunch in the future.It’s not all doom and gloom, of course. As Daryle Hardie points out,

changes are happening, albeit slowly.“The best news this year is the enforcement of baby seats – long, long

overdue,” he says. “We have always said until the ROP make it law, enforce and fine people for not restraining children, we are flogging a dead horse.

“I personally think the ROP are improving their efforts year on year. You see them being a lot more vigilant towards road users that are clearly breaking the law. Plus the implementation of red light cameras and more speed cameras is dramatically changing driving behaviour.”

Among the measures Daryle believes need to be implemented are In Vehicle Monitoring Systems, personal bus monitors, CCTV, seatbelts and cell phone blockers, many of which already used in other countries around the world.

Meanwhile, at the start of the 32nd GCC Traffic Week, which began on March 13, the ROP announced a campaign to curb the use of mobile phones while driving.

Mwasalat are also investing time, effort and money in the proper training of drivers in an attempt to raise the overall standard when it comes to buses on the Sultanate’s roads.

It’s a step forward, but perhaps not far enough for some.At Indian School Nizwa, the impact of the bus crash continues to

reverberate. Children with minor injuries returned last week, while those more seriously injured have not come back and no one knows when, or if, they will.

Four pupils and a teacher will never be coming back.One child, Nandikta, was discharged recently after spending more than

a month in hospital, but the trauma to her head was so severe that she is currently unable to talk and does not recognise her parents, who are considering taking her home to India for specialist treatment.

“The whole school is still traumatised by what has happened,” says Akhilesh Kumar.

“Teachers lost one of their colleagues, the children lost one of the best teachers in the school and we lost four kids.

“Some of the kids who came back last week were still crying and apprehensive. It’s not a time for an enquiry. It’s time for action.”

TIMELINE OF MAJOR BUS ACCIDENTS

Total Death toll: 36

Y Magazine has teamed up with the Oman Automobile

Association to make a difference on Oman’s roads.

Pick up a pledge card, fill it in and you could win a share of RO225. For more

information, go to y-oman.com

MAKE THE PLEDGE

M A R 1 7 – 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 24

RAINED OUTA

fter the soaking the Sultanate received, the big clear up is almost

over as work continues to repair and dry out damage caused by

torrential rain, flash floods and high winds.

As these photographs reveal, the impact of the storms were

felt from Muscat to Jebel Shams. The death toll reached eight,

including two children; a boy who went missing in an overflowing wadi and a girl

who died when a house wall collapsed on her in Wadi Bani Khalid.

Emergency services were stretched to the limit, responding to calls for help,

with helicopters flown in to rescue people trapped from swollen wadis.

Over the four days, the Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance

(PACDA) received 332 calls, of which 255 were water rescue operations,

according to the Oman News Agency. A further 37 were land rescues, 29 fire

operations, eight ambulance calls and four search operations. Al Batinah North

had the highest number of call outs, followed by Al Dakhiliyah and thirdly

Muscat.Most rainfall was seen in the wilayat of Bahla, which recorded 77.8mm in less

than 24 hours.

Levels of water at Wadi Dayqah Dam hit 96.8 per cent or 96.8 million cubic

metres.Meanwhile, insurance companies are steeling themselves for a flurry of claims

due to the storms, with one company in Muscat saying it had already received 30

property claims and more than a dozen automotive claims.

But it seems that we’re not quite out of the woods yet when it comes to the

weather. More unstable conditions are forecast from the middle of this week into

the weekend, with rain and thunder storms. So brace yourselves.

As Oman dries after the recent wild

weather, we look back in photos at the

pounding Mother Nature gave the country

Phot

os: O

man

New

s Age

ncy

M A R 1 7 – 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 2 5

RAINED OUT

M A R 1 7 – 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 2 6

As dozens of cameras flashed and the TV crews filmed, Oman national team head coach, Juan Ramón López Caro, announced the 26 players that would carry the Sultanate’s hopes of qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup on

their shoulders when they take on Guam at Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex on March 24.

After a rough qualification ride that led to the departure of previous head coach, Paul Le Guen, after four years of service towards the end of 2015, López Caro was brought into the fold to usher in a new era, that begins next week with the coach’s first competitive match.

Building a side around the captain of the team and foundation stone of Omani football, Ali al Habsi, López Caro is certainly making his mark on the national team, announcing a raft of new faces in the squad, some of whom will be making their full international debuts against Guam and others who have only a handful of senior caps under their belt.

Although Oman’s hopes of progressing in qualification are not entirely in their control – they have to rely on favourable results from around the group, as well as victory in their own games by a margin that tops Iran’s goal difference [see table opposite] – the attitude in the press conference is one of hope and optimism.

“The future is in our hands,” says the Spanish coach with a smile as he looks ahead to strengthening the team from the ground up through the domestic league infrastructure.

López Caro, who coached Real Madrid between 2005 and 2006, has only had the chance to conduct two training camps with his players before they take on the US island territory in Micronesia at home in Oman, but has been observing domestic matches with a keen interest since taking charge in January.

Another man new to his role is Mohammed al Belushi, the national teams director who was appointed one month

Matt Blackwell speaks to key

figures in the Oman national

football setup ahead of

two vital World Cup

Qualifier matches

M A R 1 7 – 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 2 7

ago. Mohammed is the man responsible for drawing up a map to success not

only for the senior national team, but also the Under 19s, Under 16s, Under 14s and

Olympic, futsal and beach soccer teams.

“For us it is very difficult to qualify

for the World Cup. We have to beat Guam

by a big score and we will try 100 per

cent,” says Mohammed.With only two training camps

completed ahead of competitive matches against Guam and then Iran five days later, López Caro has not had long to work with his players, but he has already managed to communicate his core philosophies.

“The first camp was very good and all the players know now that there is competition,” Mohammed says. “They are not only in the team because of their name or the past. They are being assessed on what they will give to the team, technically and mentally.

“It’s a good challenge for the coach. There were many surprises

in the team announcement. We have many new players and the age of the

group is now younger.“The players are all positive. They all

know that they have to work to win it and that there are no easy matches. They have

to fight for 90 minutes or more to get a good result and they know that.”

For Mohammed, motivating the players to succeed comes through touching their dreams and changing their mentality. “The national team is not the last step – they need to play well and win some competitions,” he says. “If they think big, they will work well. In football, you always have to take new steps.”

Home games are crucial for any team, even more so on the international stage. Having thousands of die-hard fans screaming their support can really spur a team on to victory and the Red Warriors are no different.

After all, “football is a show,” says Mohammed. “If you are a great singer or actor and no one is there in the audience, you don’t feel the same passion. When people come to support the national team it is the same. The crowd can help the team succeed.”

So make sure you take to the stands and lend your voice to the thousands of football fans who collectively become the team’s 12th man when they take to the field on March 24. As Mohammed points out: “Nothing is impossible in football.”

GROUP D

Teams MP W D L GF GA ± PTS

● IRAN 6 4 2 0 20 3 17 14

● OMAN 6 3 2 1 10 5 5 11

● TURKMENISTAN 7 3 1 3 8 10 -2 10

● GUAM 7 2 1 4 3 15 -12 7

● INDIA 6 1 0 5 4 12 -8 3

SQUAD LIST FOR GUAM AND IRAN WORLD CUP QUALIFIERSNo. Player Name Club

1 Ali al Habsi Reading 2 Faiz al Rusheidi Al Nasr3 Riyad al Alawi Al Orouba4 Ahmed al Mukhaini Al Orouba5 Abdulsalam al Mukhaini Al Orouba6 Mohamed al Rawahi Al Nahda7 Khalid al Yaqoubi Fanja8 Mohammed al Musalami Fanja9 Basil al Rawahi Fanja10 Mohammed al Amri Muscat11 Raed Ibrahim Fanja12 Ahmed Mubarak Maeedar Qatar13 Ali al Jabri Fanja14 Harib al Saadi Suwaiq15 Yasin al Shiyadi Suwaiq16 Omar al Malki Seeb17 Saud al Farsi Sur18 Jameel al Yahmadi Al Shabab19 Qasim Said Dhofar20 Mohammed al Habsi Muscat21 Salah al Yahyai Seeb22 Hussain al Hadhari Dhofar23 Mohsin Johar Saham24 Abdulaziz al Maqbali Fanja25 Saeed Abdulsalam Al Khabourah26 Mohsin al Ghassani Suwaiq

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 2 8

FOOD

DRINKAND

Finding the right daily nutritional balance is no easy feat. Managing sugar, carbohydrate, fat and red meat intake takes serious effort and planning, but transforming your favourite recipes into more nutritious family meals may be easier than

you realise.Adopting the “blenditarian” lifestyle is a simple solution for

healthier eating. It involves blending mushrooms into meat to make everyday dishes more healthy and delicious. Adding chopped mushrooms to ground beef at a ratio of at least 25 per cent can enhance the taste of dishes, deliver an extra serving of vegetables and beneficial nutrients, and trim total calories and fat intake.

Any mushroom variety will work. Creminis and portabellas lend rich, earthy flavours to any meal, while white button mushrooms offer a more delicate taste. For the more adventurous eaters out there, maitake and shiitake varieties bring a bold woodsy taste and meaty texture to the plate.

The key to blending is developing the perfect mushroom consistency. For example, if using ground meat for tacos or burgers, chop mushrooms to mimic the familiar crumbled texture, using a knife and cutting board, food processor or vegetable chopper. For stews, halve or quarter mushrooms, or slice them to match strips of meat in fajitas or a stir-fry.

Practice your blending technique with these simple recipes and find more deliciously blended dishes to share with your family at mushroominfo.com

* Family Features

Start blending. Try these recipes:

Make dinner time delicious by mixing it up with different flavours and textures

THE PERFECT BLEND Prep time: 10 minutesCook time: 25 minutesServings: 8

Ingredients:§ 225g mushrooms § 450g lean ground beef§ 1 package chilli seasoning§ 1 can beef broth§ 1 can kidney beans, rinsed§ 1 can tomato paste§ 1 cup medium salsa§ 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked§ shredded cheese§ sour cream§ Coriander

Method:§ In food processor with metal blade, pulse mushrooms until finely chopped. § In large saucepan, put brown meat and mushrooms with chilli seasoning.§ In another saucepan, mix broth, kidney beans, tomato paste, salsa and macaroni.§ Bring mixture to boil and cover. Simmer on low for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. § When macaroni is al dente, stir in browned meat and mushrooms.§ Serve topped with cheese, sour cream and coriander.

Blended Chilli and Macaroni

Prep time: 15 minutesCook time: 10-15 minutesServings: 4

Ingredients:§ 225g cremini or white button mushrooms§ 3 tbsp olive oil, divided§ 450g ground beef§ 1 tsp salt§ 4 buns

Method:§ Finely dice mushrooms or gently pulse in food processor. In skillet, warm two tbsp olive oil on medium-high heat and add mushrooms, sautéing for five-seven minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from heat and cool five minutes. § Transfer cooled mushrooms to medium bowl. Add ground beef and salt, mixing until combined. Make four patties. Add remaining olive oil to pan and cook burger patties on medium-high heat until desired doneness. Plate and add desired toppings to bun.§ Topping recommendations: feta cheese, romesco sauce, sweet peppers and sautéed red onions.

Classic Blended Burger Prep time: 15 minutesCook time: 15 minutesServings: 4

Ingredients:§ 225g fresh mushrooms§ 1 onion, chopped§ 4 cloves garlic§ 1 tbsp minced ginger§ 225g lean ground beef§ 1 tbsp canola oil§ 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves§ 1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves§ 1/2 tsp ground mustard§ 1/4 tsp dried minced garlic§ 1/4 tsp dried minced onion§ 1 red pepper, finely chopped§ 2 tbsp hoisin sauce§ 1 tbsp soy sauce§ 1 tbsp rice vinegar§ 1 head Boston lettuce§ 1/2 cup shredded carrots§ 1/4 cup chopped cashews (optional)

Method:§ In food processor with metal blade, pulse mushrooms, onion, garlic and ginger until finely chopped. Add ground beef; pulse until combined. § In large, nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add mushroom mixture, thyme, oregano, mustard, garlic and dried onion. Cook, stirring often, for 10 minutes or until browned.§ Stir in red pepper, hoisin sauce, soy sauce and vinegar. Simmer five minutes; remove from heat. § Serve in lettuce leaves garnished with shredded carrots and chopped cashews.

Asian Lettuce Wraps

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The word Zen has come to be associated with a calm and tranquil state of focus and relaxed is certainly what I felt when I visited the restaurant of the

same name at the weekend, thanks to its palpable chilled-out vibe.

Zen Asian Bistro is tucked away in a corner of the Oman Avenues Mall food court and the first thing I noticed as I approached is that you can enter from two sides, which gave Zen an open and airy feel. Seating options range from regular tables both inside and outside the restaurant, to traditional Asian low-to-the-ground tables and stools positioned around an open sushi kitchen.

A smiling waitress welcomed us as soon as we arrived and we took a seat in one of the cosy booths inside.

The extensive choice is a theme that extends from the seating to the menu, with a colourful array of dishes from Japan, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Korea and the Philippines all on offer, in addition to a selection of international dishes with a fusion twist. The flag of each country is situated next to each dish so you know which part of the world you are ordering from, which is a thoughtful extra. The restaurant certainly looks the business, now I just had to see if the food would measure up.

Our own culinary journey would take us to Japan, Indonesia and Thailand thanks to “Dynamite Prawns” as a shared starter, mee goreng from the Wok Fried Noodles section and

Thai black pepper beef from under the Wok Specials heading. Drinks were a simple bottle of water and a virgin mojito for myself, which was served elaborately in a tall glass bottle, complete with a bendy straw and paper umbrella. Given a sharp and sour hit by plenty of lemon and lime, it tasted great.

The menu also boasted one of the most extensive sushi offerings in Muscat, with imaginatively named creations such as “Godzilla” and “Groovy Ebi Maki” and while this caught my attention, it will have to wait until next time.

When our starter arrived, it struck me as an Asian take on the traditional prawn cocktail. The prawns themselves had been fried in an extremely light batter, which was good because it meant they were not too heavy, and the “dynamite” came from the sauce they were smothered in. Although I couldn’t pin down the exact ingredients of the dynamite sauce, it provided a sweet moreish tang and the blast of chilli was instant. All in all, things had started well.

We had barely put our chopsticks to one side when the next course arrived and my first impression was that there was a lot of food. Thankfully, making my way through the meal would not be a chore because it tasted great. The tenderloin beef had been thinly sliced and well cooked in an excellent black pepper sauce, while onions and red and yellow peppers provided a pleasing crunch. The dish also came with a bowl of sticky white rice, something that you occasionally have to pay extra for in other places.

Although my black pepper beef had a fire icon next to it on menu, indicating that it was spicy, it wasn’t quite hot enough for my tastes, but the addition of some extra chilli sauce rectified this easily enough.

The mee goreng was equally large, with thick noodles, a fried egg, prawn crackers and both chicken and prawns. The dish was far from dry and the meat was nice and chunky, although the smokiness of the taste was slightly overpowering and ultimately, my dining partner could only battle his way through half of the dish.

The portion size had defeated us both and we couldn’t face the dessert menu, instead opting for two espressos to finish things off. My friend is Italian and the fact that the coffee won his approval is perhaps the highest praise possible.

The service was good throughout, with the food arriving a mere 10 minutes after ordering and the waitress responding quickly when I requested something spicy to give my dish a bit of a kick. The only marks dropped here were when our dirty plates were left at the table for just a little too long, not being cleared until our coffees arrived.

But this is a small criticism of what was a laid back and enjoyable experience overall. And with plenty of intriguing dishes on the menu, it wouldn’t be hard to tempt me back once again.

Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com

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

ASIAN ADVENTURE

Info BoxZEN ASIAN BISTRO Oman Avenues Mall

Tel: 2206 0200Opening hours:

10am-11pm dailyDinner for two: RO19.3

Verdict :7 / 10 Service

8 / 10 Food 7 / 10 Ambience

Relaxed setting for good Asian food

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

WITH A HUGE SELECTION OF DISHES AVAILABLE, ZEN ASIAN BISTRO OFFERS A TASTY TOUR OF THE FAR EAST, WRITES MATT BLACKWELL

Casual

Dining

FOOD

F E B 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 4 0 70 3 2

Get The Look

HEALTH&BEAUTY

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

MUM’S THE WORDMother’s Day might be just

around the corner, but there’s still time to buy your mum some chic accessories or even help her to find the

perfect dress for a celebratory lunch, like this elegant number

from Betty Barclay.

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These bright yellow “suedette” ankle-strap sandals from New Look are a classic style this spring – and great for Mother’s Day. From RO9.9

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Get The Look

From the high end to the high street, Felicity

Glover helps you to get the look

Every mum needs a classic tote and this light blue shoulder bag from New Look is not only budget friendly, it’s just the right size for all those extras she has to carry around. From RO11

This effortlessly chic textured yellow lace dress from M&Co is perfect for that special Mother’s Day lunch with family and friends. Go to mandco.com for more information

Your mum will make an elegant statement in this floral-printed dress from the M&S Per Una range. From RO41.5

Brunching by the pool for Mother’s Day? This pastel-striped V-neck midi dress from New Look will keep your mum cool all day long. Just don’t forget the sunscreen! From RO16.5

Accessorize is a great place to source some fun jewellery for your mum, such as these gold bracelets. Prices vary

Give your mum a chic new look with these tortoiseshell-style

sunglasses from Next. From RO24

Within the first few seconds of meeting someone, an opinion is immediately formed that can last forever. This encounter often sets the tone for the relationship that follows. So how can

you make your first impression a positive one?Here are some tips to help you knock your first

meeting out of the park:

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S C A N O U R Q R C O D E S

W I T H A N Y Q R R E A D E R A P P

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

First impressions often count, so it’s important to get it right and make it work for you

BESTBE THE

Take pride in your presence

Physical appearance is the first thing people observe before an introduction. Always dress appropriately for the occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or a formal business meeting. A go-to suggestion is to maintain a clean and crisp appearance for most events because you can’t go wrong – think business casual. This look can be trendy and professional and will position you in a positive light. Being mindful of your appearance will give you more confidence to help make a great first impression.

Share your best smile

A warm, genuine smile is your best tool in making a first impression unforgettable. “A self-assured and convincing smile starts with regular oral care practices to keep your teeth clean and your breath smelling fresh,” says dentis Dr

Christopher Ramsey, DMD. An easy way to do this is by adding a mouthwash, like Crest Pro-Health Advanced Mouthwash with Extra Deep Clean to your daily routine. “These advanced mouthwash formulas strengthen teeth, kill germs and freshen breath, so you are guaranteed to have and maintain an impressive smile,” says Dr Todd Snyder, DDS, AAACD.

Showcase your positive attitude

For people who get nervous when interacting with others, it is essential to sustain a calm attitude and optimistic outlook. Go into the meeting with an open mind and learn something new. Contribute to the conversation and maintain engagement. Showing attentiveness is often contagious, as the person you meet catches on and reciprocates.

Be conscious of your body language

Body language is a crucial element in daily human interaction. From the way you walk to a meeting, to the hand gestures used while you

speak – body language is just as important as the words you say. Start by standing tall, making appropriate eye contact and giving a firm handshake. Demonstrate open body postures by keeping your head up and relaxing your shoulders. Crossed arms and legs make you appear closed off and unapproachable, so be mindful of how you might appear to others.

Be yourself Being true to yourself

is the best way to be presentable to others. Be comfortable with your personality. If nervousness kicks in, take a few deep breaths and remember to be calm and confident. A composed demeanor will put anyone at ease, sealing the deal on an excellent relationship as you move forward.

Making an everlasting first impression is simply about being at peace with who you are and being ready to meet others. Try some of these above tips at your next meeting, networking event or job interview. *BPT

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

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 3 5

all four healthy lifestyle factors compared with those having none.

“Even having one to three healthy lifestyle factors reduced the risk of hypertension remarkably,” says Dr Venkataram.

For example, having two healthy lifestyle factors reduced the risk of hypertension by nearly 50 per cent in men and by more than 30 per cent in women.

“Four modifiable lifestyle factors – alcohol consumption, physical activity, consumption of vegetables and keeping normal weight – have a remarkable effect on the development of hypertension.”

The Blood Pressure Association UK, says: “This study shows a big effect in controlling blood pressure from simple changes in lifestyle. It’s surprising and more than you would expect.

“A recent review of studies into drug treatment for mild hypertension found no benefit, and this new research suggests that making lifestyle changes really does work and could work better.”

Patients could “reduce their blood pressure by modifying the four lifestyle factors alone or by making these modifications while taking blood pressure-lowering medication.”

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure:

High blood pressure (hypertension) usually has no obvious symptoms and many people have it without even knowing.

The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to have your blood pressure measured. All adults should get their blood pressure checked at least once every five years.

In some rare cases, where a person has very high blood pressure, they can experience certain

symptoms, some of which include:● A persistent headache● Blurred or double vision● Nosebleeds ● Shortness of breathIf you are pregnant, it’s important to have your blood pressure checked on

a regular basis, even if it isn’t high.Watching your blood pressure while you are pregnant reduces your risk of

developing pregnancy-induced hypertension.This can lead to a serious condition called pre-eclampsia where there is a

problem with the placenta (the organ that links the baby’s blood supply to the mother’s).

TestingHealthy adults aged over 40 should have their blood pressure checked at

least once every five years.If you are at an increased risk of high blood pressure, you should have

your blood pressure checked more often, ideally once a year.Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and it is

recorded as two figures:● systolic pressure (the top number) – the pressure of the blood when your

heart pushes blood out● diastolic pressure (the bottom number) – the pressure of the blood when

your heart rests in between beats, which reflects how strongly your arteries are resisting blood flow

If your blood pressure is “140 over 90” or 140/90mmHg, it means you have a systolic pressure of 140mmHg and a diastolic pressure of 90mmHg.

Ideally, your blood pressure reading should be below 120/80mmHg (for the lowest possible risk of disease). However, anything under 130/80mmHg is generally considered normal.

You are said to have high blood pressure if readings on separate occasions consistently show your blood pressure to be 140/90mmHg or higher.

(*Source: nhs.uk)

It’s a health issue that’s often referred to as a “silent killer” because it often has few early warning symptoms. Left untreated, hypertension, or high blood pressure, can cause a range of health conditions from strokes and blood clots to kidney and heart disease.

Cases are said to be on the increase in Oman due to sedentary lifestyles, more stressful living and junk food diets. Other countries are facing similar rises, with 350 preventable strokes or heart attacks in the UK every day caused by high blood pressure.

Usually, patients with high blood pressure are prescribed drugs to help control their hypertension. But according to Dr Sreenivas Venkataram, a specialist in internal medicine and a diabetalogist at Al Hayat International Hospital in Muscat, research has shown that exercising regularly, keeping weight down, drinking in moderation, eating plenty of vegetables and refraining from smoking can cut the chances of developing high blood pressure by two thirds.

The impact of these measures on high blood pressure was much bigger than expected, a study found, and in some cases could even be just as effective a way to treat sufferers as prescribing drugs.

Walking to work, quitting smoking, restricting alcohol to two drinks a day can “reduce the risk markedly”.

In developed countries such as the UK, the lifetime risk of developing high blood pressure is now 90 per cent, and six million Britons take drugs to control it.

People with hypertension are routinely advised to make the lifestyle changes as a part of treatment.

The risk of hypertension was only one third among those having

Hypertension is often treated with drugs, but a change in lifestyle can be just as good says one expert

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M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 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

WADI BANI KHALIDMAKING HIS FIRST TRIP TO WADI BANI KHALID, SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI

FINDS A BEAUTIFUL OASIS TEEMING WITH LIFE

Destination

In the previous issue, I explained how a wrong turn led me to Mrkhah Park [Issue 411]; this time I’ll be telling the story of the

Destination I’d set my sights on from the beginning – Wadi Bani Khalid.

Once again, we got lost – this was becoming a recurring theme. After a few kilometres of driving, in what we thought was the direction of Wadi Bani Khalid, my cousin spoke up, saying that he didn’t recognise the surroundings from his last visit.

We had found a few pools right next to the road and although they had their own beauty, some locals pointed out to us that we weren’t on the right track. One bonus was that I managed to capture a couple of close-up shots of several vibrant-coloured butterflies.

Following a quick change of course, we got ourselves heading the right way and eventually found the wadi.

Set a little more than 200km from Muscat, Wadi Bani Khalid is one of Oman’s most popular natural attractions and is part of the small handful that actually have amenities on site, including toilets, a picnic area and occasionally vendors selling refreshments.

It was the first time I’d visited, but from the moment I laid eyes on the wadi, I knew it was something pretty special.

Water flows from a spring upstream, coursing down from the mountains to collect in huge pools with a blueish-green tint. There are manmade bridges in place so that you can cross easily.

Arriving around mid-afternoon, we found it to be teeming with people, a vibrant mix of Omani families, expats and tourists.

People were jumping off the high rocks and splashing around in the pools, some of which I’ve heard can reach depths of nine metres. Even though the water was deep enough to jump in, I did notice some people dressed in white on standby in strategic locations in case of any accidents, which was a reassuring sight.

By chance, I met a diehard fan of Y, who had a quick chat about the magazine and his favourite sections, which included Destination, Outdoors and Coffee with Y.

Wadi Bani Khalid is like a little oasis in the mountains, with the turquoise tinge of the water, green of the palm trees and dusty yellow of the surrounding rocks all contrasting perfectly to make a beautiful photo.

The pools are a great place for families to frolic and have fun, but Wadi Bani Khalid also caters for those in search of something a little more challenging. Further into the wadi you can find yet more springs, pools and caves, which are worth a visit, providing you are ready to tackle a slightly more demanding trek.

Alas, I couldn’t venture too far in, as I had planned to squeeze in one more Destination that day.

I loved my first experience of Wadi Bani Khalid and when the weather begins to change again after summer, I have set myself a challenge of walking all the way from Wadi Tiwi to Wadi Bani Khalid; a trek that I think will be in the region of around 14 hours. So keep your eyes peeled later in the year!

After resolving to do this, it was time to hit the road once more, but you’ll have to pick up next week’s copy of Y to discover where I was headed.

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From Muscat, take Route 15 and take the turning for Route 23 after Bidbid. Stay on Route 23 until you pass through Bidiyah. Take a left turn after the Oriental Nights Rest House and follow the signs to Wadi Bani Khalid. GPS location of the pools: N22° 37’ 7.214” E59° 5’ 35.56”

TRAV

EL G

UIDE

HOW TO GET THERE

CARS ANDOUTDOORSCARS ANDADVENTURES

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 20 4 0

AT THE RACESCapable of enduring the

most extreme conditions, camels have been integral to residents of the Gulf

for centuries. Believed to have been domesticated around 3,000 BC, camels have been used for everything from milk and meat to working animals and a means of transportation over the years.

Many may think them of as lumbering creatures or “Ships of the Desert”, but camels have more than a few tricks up their sleeve. Given the right conditions, the one-humped dromedary camel that you find in

Oman can actually reach speeds of up to 64kph in short bursts on specialised tracks.

And camel racing is big business in Oman, as you can see from some of these impressive pictures.

Overseen by the Oman Camel Racing Federation, the famous Arab sport has a solid fan base, with races providing an opportunity for a fantastic spectacle for tourists and locals alike.

Racing camels are often spurred on by robotic jockeys – child jockeys were banned in the UAE in 2002, while Oman announced a phased

Camels are known for their resilience, but some have a hidden talent – speed. Y looks into the exciting world of camel racingPhotos: Oman News Agency

M A R 1 7 - 2 3 / I S S U E 4 1 2 0 4 1

implementation of a minimum age of 18 for jockeys in 2005 – but races also offer an opportunity for Bedouin riders to demonstrate amazing feats of athleticism as they maintain balance perched atop their bumpy steed.

The camels themselves have become prized possessions and can often fetch prices in excess of the top sports cars. The cream of the crop are bred and trained at special farms where they undergo a rigorous training programme to ensure they perform at the peak of their ability.

Races don’t receive much mainstream publicity, so if you’re keen to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures at full tilt, be sure to visit rca.gov.om and the Oman Camel Racing Federation on Facebook for schedules.

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P O S T C A R D S F R O MCARS ANDADVENTURES

GRAN CANARIAKate Ginn recommends

EXPLORE THE SAND DUNES AT MASPALOMAS

MOUNTAIN BIKE TOUR

CATCH A BOAT TRIP FROM PUERTO RICO

D 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 Maspalomas stole my heart during a week-long stay in the south as part of a longer trip to the island. It’s the antithesis of the resort next door, the big and brash Playa del Ingles, being laidback with a more upmarket vibe. You won’t find any high-rise buildings here, instead there are smart, smaller hotels and a wonderful coastline with wide, sandy beaches and invitingly bright blue water. The famous Maspalomas sand dunes are not to be missed. Yes, I know we have plenty of those in Oman, but traversing through these dunes, stretching on for 400 hectares, on foot or by camel with the sea glistening nearby is an experience to savour. Designated a national park in 1994, the dunes are protected as the island’s heritage as part of a 1,000 acre nature reserve, which includes El Oasis, a seawater lagoon bordered with palm trees. For fun, head to Aqualand Maspalomas (the biggest water park on the island) a few kilometres away or try out the largest golf course on Gran Canaria. Highlights If you want to party, Gran Canaria can oblige with Playa del Ingles, brimming with purpose-built apartment complexes and hotels and big-name nightclubs. The morning after, you can relax on the white sand beach before the sun sets and the partying starts all over again. It also has some great duty-free designer shopping. Gran Canaria is blessed with 230km of coastline, with some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, all offering something different. I recommend hiring a car and discovering the island. Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria, boasts the district of Vegueta – the oldest quarter of the town, which was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1990 – and some of the best tapas on the island. Visit during the carnival period from January to March. Puerto Rico is great for watersports, from big-game fishing to sailing and diving. Take a boat trip along the coast as the sun starts to set.

Lowlights It can get crazy busy during peak tourist times – the school holidays from June to August in particular. It’s best to avoid this time if you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet. But with an average temperature of 24ºC and almost constant sunshine, Gran Canaria is on the holiday radar any time of the year.

Souvenirs The local pottery is made from volcanic ash and the best pots are sold in craft markets and during local festivals. Canarian women used to be famous for making lace, especially in the fishing villages, but the tradition has almost died out. Most of the lace sold in souvenir shops is now made abroad and shipped in, but you can still find some authentic lace work for sale in craft shops. Reed baskets, felt hats and leather pouches are also good buys.

Where to stay Base yourself in one of the bigger resorts where you can enjoy five-star luxury, such as the adult-only Bohemia Suites & Spa in Playa del Ingles, or go boutique and exclusive. All-inclusive resorts are very popular and there are also plenty of good value self-catering apartments or villas.

On e o f S p a i n ’ s C a n a r y I s l a n d s , a n a r c h i p e l a g o o ff n o r t h w e s t e r n A f r i c a , G r a n C a n a r i a i s t h e t h i r d - l a r g e s t a n d s e c o n d - m o s t p o p u l o u s a n d a l o n g - t i m e f a v o u r i t e

d e s t i n a t i o n fo r t h e h o l i d a y i n g m a s s e s . U n l i k e i t s m o r e r a u c o u s n e i g h b o u r , T e n e r i f e , G r a n C a n a r i a h a s a r e p u t a t i o n fo r b e i n g m o r e r e l a x e d a n d f a m i l y f r i e n d l y w i t h a d i v e r s e r a n g e o f a tt r a c t i o n s f r o m g o r g e o u s w h i t e s a n d b e a c h e s t o b o u t i q u e s h o p s a n d q u a i n t l i tt l e v i l l a g e s . G r a n C a n a r i a f i r s t a p p e a r e d o n t h e t o u r i s m r a d a r a s f a r b a c k a s t h e 1 9 t h c e n t u r y a n d h a s f l o u r i s h e d e v e r s i n c e . W i t h g u a r a n t e e d y e a r - r o u n d s u n s h i n e a n d f a b u l o u s b e a c h e s , i t ’ s a g r e a t p l a c e t o r e c h a r g e t h e b a tt e r i e s a n d s i m p l y w a t c h t h e w o r l d g o b y fo r a c o u p l e o f i n d u l g e n t w e e k s . I f , l i k e m e , y o u l i k e t o m i x t h i n g s u p a l i tt l e , t h e r e a r e p l e n t y o f a d v e n t u r o u s a c t i v i t i e s a s w e l l , f r o m m o u n t a i n b i k i n g i n t h e r u g g e d m o u n t a i n o u s a r e a s t o w i n d s u r f i n g o n c l e a r , b l u e w a t e r s .

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

Y - F IO u t d o o r s D e s t i n a t i o n

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SMART CARS

EDITO

R’S PI

CK

With technology no longer confined to our homes and offices. Matthew Herbst road tests some fun gadgets that aim to enhance our driving experience

MIRROR, MIRROR IF YOUR CAR ISN’T FITTED WITH A REVERSING CAMERA, THE PEAK PKC0RG SMALL REARVIEW MIRROR WITH 3.5-INCH BACKUP CAMERA COULD BE FOR YOU. IT CONSISTS OF AN ATTACHABLE REAR-VIEW MIRROR WITH A BUILT-IN MONITOR, WEATHERPROOF CAMERA HOUSING, A SWIVEL CAMERA WITH A WIDE-VIEW ANGLE AND A WIRELESS TRANSMITTER. MISSING THAT LAMP POST HAS NEVER BEEN SO EASY. AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM FROM RO38.21.

ON THE ROADIf you work remotely and are constantly on the move, but still want your caffeine fix then you should consider investing in the Handpresso Auto Espresso Maker. This little device will bring a little oomph to your day and help keep you focused while driving. Available at amazon.com from RO62.30.

POWER CUPPowering up all your gadgets when on the road can become an issue, but with the PowerLine PowerCup plugged into your car’s cigarette lighter you can charge everything you need. With two power sockets and a USB port, the PowerCup provides sufficient energy to charge laptops, tablets, smartphones, DVD players, portable gaming devices, and more. Available at amazon.com from RO10.74.

AUTOFINDERIf remembering where you parked your car at the mall is a constant struggle, then the Automatic Parked Car Finder could offer the solution to your problem. It automatically marks the location of your car on an iPhone app, meaning you don’t have to spend time searching while you’re laden down with shopping. It plugs into the car’s power outlet and updates the app via Bluetooth the moment the car’s engine is turned off. Each location on the map is date and time stamped to avoid confusion. Available at hammacher.com from RO15.36.

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App of the Week

NEW NAVDY CAR HUDAUTOMATIC LINK SMART DRIVING ASSISTANT BY AUTOMATICAutomatic is a powerful little tool with its own dedicated app to empower drivers with knowledge about themselves and their car so that they can be safer and drive smarter. Automatic helps you change your driving behaviour to save on petrol, it remembers where you parked, keeps tabs on your engine lights and best of all, automatically calls for help in a crash while notifying your loved ones. Available at automatic.com from RO38.44.

COOK UP A STORMFamily road trips are fun, but when the kids get hungry things can get a little tricky. Now you can heat meals while on the go thanks to the RoadPro 12-Volt Portable Stove, much to your family’s delight. This handy portable cooking device warms food up to 150°C and is easy to cart around. Available at amazon.com from RO12.94.

Navdy is a nifty car gadget that can reduce mobile phone usage while driving, which will hopefully result in fewer accidents on the roads. It connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth and projects key information onto the windshield via a handy head-up display, meaning you can interact with the world around you while keeping your hands on the wheel. Available at navdy.com from RO114.99.

SOUND WAVES The Audiovox XM Snap XSN1V1 XM Satellite Radio Receiver is the simplest XM Radio receiver to date. Now you can enjoy a variety of radio services without being limited to what’s on air on your local station and without the need to install a state-of-the-art sound system. Just plug the XM Snap into the cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle, place the antenna on the car, and tune for stations. It is that simple. Available at amazon.com from RO22.90.

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A meek exterior conceals a car with pretensions to be on the racetrack. Kate Ginn gets behind the wheel of the Ford Focus

They say looks can be deceptive. Just like mild-mannered Clark Kent, the bespectacled alter ego

of Superman, what you see on the outside of the Ford Focus is hiding something altogether more exciting.

At first glance, the Focus looks handsome, but not quite a head-turner on a crowded highway. But just as Clark Kent rips off his shirt to reveal his true identity, the Focus exposes itself to be far from ordinary once it gets going.

The way this car hugs the road so tightly – like a baby chimpanzee clinging onto its mother – is superb, thanks an intuitive stability system that shifts power

It makes for an exhilarating ride. I took my test car up the Bawshar-Amerat road and it dealt with the twists, turns and inclines without flinching. The 1.5 twin turbo engine showed no discernable loss of power as we overtook car after car, and just kept climbing. We took the corners with one hand on the wheel, guiding the car round the bend like it was on rails, giving the driver an extraordinary amount of control.

Gear changes in the six-speed transmission are seamless, although I did at times shift into manual as we dropped back into Bawshar.

Ford replaced its old 1.6-litre engine with the twin-turbo 1.5, making the car more economical without losing raw strength.

The Focus has, traditionally, been

seen as a great family car, offering the best blend of ride and handling in its class and nothing has changed in that respect.

Now, however, with its more refined look, it also appeals to a younger, more racy crowd who are on the hunt for a smart motor with a bit of oomph under the bonnet. They won’t be disappointed. Switch into Sports mode with the transmission, put your foot down and on the open road (speed limits in mind), the Focus really lets itself go with unashamed abandon. At the same time, it can handle the school run with aplomb and offers an excellent safety record. It’s a good, solid, well-built car, robust enough to cope with being driven hard or flung into corners.

Inside, the cloth seats of my test car didn’t feel as snug as my own car, which embraces the driver tightly. Legroom was adequate in the front but might be a touch cramped in the back for larger adult passengers on long journeys.

I loved the layout of the cabin. With all Fords, everything has been designed to make life easy for the driver, from the positioning of the controls to the materials used. Don’t expect luxe – there’s no sign of any leather or polished wood here – but it’s utilitarian interior does what’s needed. Buttons on the steering wheel put control at your fingertips, from music to Bluetooth connectivity, along with cruise control and SYNC voice. There’s a small

screen for driver information, but no touchscreen.

The Ford Focus is so easy to drive, within minutes you feel completely at ease with the machine, as if you’ve been together for years, like an old married couple.

A couple of touches I really liked were being able to open the windows remotely with the key – very handy for the Omani summer months to let the heat out of the car before getting in – and child lock doors and safety windows, which are automatically prevented from closing if little fingers are in the way.

The sound system is decent and it’s easy to connect your smartphone via USB to play your own music. I was pleasantly surprised by the boot, which was bigger than expected and managed to swallow up several shopping bags after a spot of retail therapy – good for me, but not so great for my credit card.

Parking in one of Muscat’s malls was easy, even without the aid of a rear camera, and light steering enabled us to emerge back out into the sunlight without any bumps or scrapes on the paintwork.

That’s the versatility of the Focus. It’s compact enough to dart around the city, in and out of traffic, but can more than look after itself on the highway. If you’re looking for something affordable, dependable and practical, the Focus could fit the bill, and be your own little superhero on the road.

16” Alloy Wheels Body Colour Door

Handles Cruise Control -

Automatic Speed Limiting Device (ASLD)

Smart Child Lock USB connectivity Bluetooth 6 speaker sound system 4 airbags SYNC voice activated

They say: “The most refined

Focus yet”

We say: “Surprisingly brilliant”

Ford Focus TrendSpecifications:

Engine: 1.5 twin turbo EcoBurst

Transmission: 6-speed Select Shift Automatic

Horsepower: 1810-100kph: 8 seconds

Top speed: 200kph (approx)

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 O u t d o o r s Y - F i

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