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Issue 135, May 2018
Simply scan this QR code with your smartphone and see the FACES website online
Share your#ValuableMoments
OUR RAMADAN CATALOGUE IS OUT NOWAvailable in stores and online at homecentre.com
*Terms and conditions apply.
Up to 5 years on furniture &1 year on home accessories*
City Centre Muscat: 24558063, Al Khuwair: Oasis Mall: 22060170, Sohar: 95119692 / 95119687,Salalah: Gardens Mall: 22009362, Nizwa: Nizwa Grand Mall: 25433356UAE | Saudi Arabia | Kuwait | Bahrain | Qatar | Oman | Egypt | Lebanon | Iraq | India | www.homecentre.com | FOLLOW US ON
Experience a skin clinic that is less like a clinic and more about you. #allnewkaya. Where every moment, every element is designed to make you look good and feel great. It reflects our new brand identity. It reflects you. It’s an evolution of personalised skin care into the way it should be. A fusion of science and beauty. For you.
The#allnewkayaexperience
is here
Welcome to the #allnewkaya clinic at City Centre Muscat.Where science meets beauty like never before!
66/2
018
Laser Hair Reduction | Age Control Solutions | Acne & Acne Scar Solutions | Pigmentation Solutions | Skin Glow Solutions | Skin Care ProductsKaya Skin Clinic is an international skin care chain with highly experienced dermatologists and many satised customers in the Middle East
kayaskinclinic.com
Kaya Skin Clinic, Unit No NG-52, Level 1, City Centre Muscat, Al Seeb, Muscat | 8007SKIN (80077546)Oman - Muscat | UAE - Abu Dhabi • Al Ain • Dubai • Fujairah • Ras Al Khaimah • Sharjah | Saudi Arabia - Riyadh • Jeddah | Kuwait
kayaclinicarabiakayaskinclinicarabia
Fam
ily
Att
itu
de
Cla
ss
En
tert
ain
men
t S
ucc
ess
Issue 135, May 2018
Published By / Muscat Media Group
PB 770, PC 112, Ruwi, Oman
Tel: +968 24 811953 . Fax: +968 24 813153
Printed At / Oriental Printing Press
Tel: +968 24816952, 24815330
CONTACT Telephone+968 24136771/2
Email - [email protected]
Email - [email protected]
Websitewww.facesoman.com
We are on Facebook! ‘FACES Magazine, Oman’
Issue 135, May 2018
Simply scan this QR code with your smartphone and see the FACES website online
Editor’s Note
Copyright 2018 FACES / All material published remains the copyright of FACES. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. FACES cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material.
2018 has, presumably, been on a roller-coaster ride. We were still sending out our ‘Happy New Year’ wishes when February ushered in our 11th anniversary and got March to whiz by and plonk April right on our calendars. And now, as we turn the calendar to a fresh new month, it is the most anticipated Holy Month that is greeting us midway.
Yes, time does fly. Soon the Holy month of Ramadan will be upon us, putting a brake on our mundane, everyday lives to usher in a spirit of giving and sharing. It will alter the tempo of daily life and envelop us with spiritual warmth that will bring into focus longstanding traditions and practices that were relevant yesterday, are important today, and significant tomorrow.
To celebrate this unique time of the year, we have flooded the pages of this special Ramadan issue with the season’s joys of charity and spiritual reflection. From motivational speakers who propound the importance of getting inspired to stay positive during this month to the celebration of Iftar that highlight the customs, this May issue of FACES is dedicated to the spirit of Ramadan that transcends all spheres of life.
The cover story, especially, is an inspiration by itself, as it presents little snippets of wisdom from life coaches who fall back on their personal experiences to throw light on the path of positivity that has helped them grow into motivators for the youth today. Our regular features also take the Ramadan path to set the mood for the fast approaching season and enjoy life on a spiritual platform.
Ramadan Mubarak!
Founder / Essa Bin Mohammed Al Zedjali
Chairman & Editor-in-Chief / Mohammed Issa Al Zedjali
Chief Executive Officer / Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali
Business Director / Sophia Raman
Editorial Consultant / Suzy Fontes
Art Director / Pushpender K. Sharma
Operations / M.V.V. Sagar
FACES May 201846
Fasting, rather intermittent fasting has the
potential to help you meet your fitness targets,
state experts, who prescribe staggered workout
regimes to accompany fasting, so as to reach the
desired figure on the scale. Although fasting by itself
can induce weight loss without indulging in workouts
that can aggravate the dehydration and hunger
brought on by fasting, the idea is to keep up the
fitness momentum with a consistent exercise routine to
maintain a healthy balance between mind and body.
What is important here is the timing that you choose
for workouts. While studies have shown that people
who jogged before breakfast burned up to 20 percent
Fast and WorkoutDIET & FITNESS
Exercising on an empty stomach is the secret to weight loss, maintain fitness
enthusiasts who advocate Ramadan observers to follow a well structured fitness
regime if weight loss is on the agenda
more fat than the ones who jogged after, the fact is that you
might lose more muscles in the process, as the body tends
to break down proteins in the absence of glycogen or
stored carbohydrates to fuel the exercise.
The dilemma then is that not only would you lose fat
when exercising on an intermittent diet; you might also
lose muscles, thus defeating the purpose of your fasted
workout. Ideally, follow the middle path, the one that will
benefit your body and your weight loss goals.
Right, there are several benefits of fasted workouts, but
there are some rules that need to be applied to maximise
the benefits, which include an increase in aerobic capacity
and fat utilisation. What is important here is to stick to a
FACES May l 201820
A quick roundup of Iftar offers and facilities
in and around the capital this Holy Month of Ramadan
Grand Hyatt Muscat
Grand Hyatt Muscat is geared to offer patrons a magical
experience, presenting a delectable array of traditional
Ramadan favourites in a grand setting with a variety of Iftar
options. Iftar at Mokha Café will feature a lavish open buffet.
Guests will experience a delectable oriental – Arabic buffet,
including juices and laban, throughout the Holy month of
Ramadan. Hotel guests can enjoy Hyatt’s Iftar or Suhoor set
menu from the comfort of their room. Hyatt’s Afrah Ballroom
will be open for corporate Iftar gatherings and the Hotel’s
events team will be on hand to ensure impeccable service,
paired with flexible facilities to suit the requirements.
GrandIftar Spread
SPECIAL
Grand Millennium Hotel
Celebrate the spirit of Ramadan with a Grand Iftar
Buffet at Crystal Ballroom, which will feature an array
of authentic Middle Eastern delicacies and traditional
Ramadan favourites. Accommodating up to 800 guests,
Crystal Ballroom is the ideal venue for corporate
or group Iftars. Guests could also experience the
essence of Ramadan at Taybat restaurant and sample a
sumptuous selection of Ramadan delights, highlighting
an endless Iftar buffet, with a live barbecue station.
FACES May 201850
Get your home ready for the season of
Ramadan with little touches of décor
elements that infuse a feel of spirituality and
the warmth of family love
With Ramadan pressing the brakes on the mundane pace of life to usher in a palpable waft of
spirituality and contemplative quietude, get set to inject the mood of the season into your
home with little touches of décor elements that have Ramadan subtly labelled over them.
Clean up the home
Festivals, traditionally, have been seen as times to undertake thorough cleaning of the home space
to set the pace for the festivities and welcome the season. And with Ramadan advocating
abstinence and spiritual reflection, a home spruced up to create the right ambience gains
all the more significance. What is important here is to give your home a complete
treatment - before the onset of the season, if possible. If not, get your
home ready for the Eid
AT HOME
Home for Ramadan
FACES May 201850
Experience a skin clinic that is less like a clinic and more about you. #allnewkaya. Where every moment, every element is designed to make you look good and feel great. It reflects our new brand identity. It reflects you. It’s an evolution of personalised skin care into the way it should be. A fusion of science and beauty. For you.
The#allnewkayaexperience
is here
Welcome to the #allnewkaya clinic at City Centre Muscat.Where science meets beauty like never before!
66/2
018
Laser Hair Reduction | Age Control Solutions | Acne & Acne Scar Solutions | Pigmentation Solutions | Skin Glow Solutions | Skin Care ProductsKaya Skin Clinic is an international skin care chain with highly experienced dermatologists and many satised customers in the Middle East
kayaskinclinic.com
Kaya Skin Clinic, Unit No NG-52, Level 1, City Centre Muscat, Al Seeb, Muscat | 8007SKIN (80077546)Oman - Muscat | UAE - Abu Dhabi • Al Ain • Dubai • Fujairah • Ras Al Khaimah • Sharjah | Saudi Arabia - Riyadh • Jeddah | Kuwait
kayaclinicarabiakayaskinclinicarabia
Fam
ily
Att
itu
de
Cla
ss
En
tert
ain
men
t S
ucc
ess
Issue 135, May 2018
Published By / Muscat Media Group
PB 770, PC 112, Ruwi, Oman
Tel: +968 24 811953 . Fax: +968 24 813153
Printed At / Oriental Printing Press
Tel: +968 24816952, 24815330
CONTACT Telephone+968 24136771/2
Email - [email protected]
Email - [email protected]
Websitewww.facesoman.com
We are on Facebook! ‘FACES Magazine, Oman’
Issue 135, May 2018
Simply scan this QR code with your smartphone and see the FACES website online
Editor’s Note
Copyright 2018 FACES / All material published remains the copyright of FACES. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. FACES cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material.
2018 has, presumably, been on a roller-coaster ride. We were still sending out our ‘Happy New Year’ wishes when February ushered in our 11th anniversary and got March to whiz by and plonk April right on our calendars. And now, as we turn the calendar to a fresh new month, it is the most anticipated Holy Month that is greeting us midway.
Yes, time does fly. Soon the Holy month of Ramadan will be upon us, putting a brake on our mundane, everyday lives to usher in a spirit of giving and sharing. It will alter the tempo of daily life and envelop us with spiritual warmth that will bring into focus longstanding traditions and practices that were relevant yesterday, are important today, and significant tomorrow.
To celebrate this unique time of the year, we have flooded the pages of this special Ramadan issue with the season’s joys of charity and spiritual reflection. From motivational speakers who propound the importance of getting inspired to stay positive during this month to the celebration of Iftar that highlight the customs, this May issue of FACES is dedicated to the spirit of Ramadan that transcends all spheres of life.
The cover story, especially, is an inspiration by itself, as it presents little snippets of wisdom from life coaches who fall back on their personal experiences to throw light on the path of positivity that has helped them grow into motivators for the youth today. Our regular features also take the Ramadan path to set the mood for the fast approaching season and enjoy life on a spiritual platform.
Ramadan Mubarak!
Founder / Essa Bin Mohammed Al Zedjali
Chairman & Editor-in-Chief / Mohammed Issa Al Zedjali
Chief Executive Officer / Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali
Business Director / Sophia Raman
Editorial Consultant / Suzy Fontes
Art Director / Pushpender K. Sharma
Operations / M.V.V. Sagar
FACES May 201846
Fasting, rather intermittent fasting has the
potential to help you meet your fitness targets,
state experts, who prescribe staggered workout
regimes to accompany fasting, so as to reach the
desired figure on the scale. Although fasting by itself
can induce weight loss without indulging in workouts
that can aggravate the dehydration and hunger
brought on by fasting, the idea is to keep up the
fitness momentum with a consistent exercise routine to
maintain a healthy balance between mind and body.
What is important here is the timing that you choose
for workouts. While studies have shown that people
who jogged before breakfast burned up to 20 percent
Fast and WorkoutDIET & FITNESS
Exercising on an empty stomach is the secret to weight loss, maintain fitness
enthusiasts who advocate Ramadan observers to follow a well structured fitness
regime if weight loss is on the agenda
more fat than the ones who jogged after, the fact is that you
might lose more muscles in the process, as the body tends
to break down proteins in the absence of glycogen or
stored carbohydrates to fuel the exercise.
The dilemma then is that not only would you lose fat
when exercising on an intermittent diet; you might also
lose muscles, thus defeating the purpose of your fasted
workout. Ideally, follow the middle path, the one that will
benefit your body and your weight loss goals.
Right, there are several benefits of fasted workouts, but
there are some rules that need to be applied to maximise
the benefits, which include an increase in aerobic capacity
and fat utilisation. What is important here is to stick to a
FACES May l 201820
A quick roundup of Iftar offers and facilities
in and around the capital this Holy Month of Ramadan
Grand Hyatt Muscat
Grand Hyatt Muscat is geared to offer patrons a magical
experience, presenting a delectable array of traditional
Ramadan favourites in a grand setting with a variety of Iftar
options. Iftar at Mokha Café will feature a lavish open buffet.
Guests will experience a delectable oriental – Arabic buffet,
including juices and laban, throughout the Holy month of
Ramadan. Hotel guests can enjoy Hyatt’s Iftar or Suhoor set
menu from the comfort of their room. Hyatt’s Afrah Ballroom
will be open for corporate Iftar gatherings and the Hotel’s
events team will be on hand to ensure impeccable service,
paired with flexible facilities to suit the requirements.
GrandIftar Spread
SPECIAL
Grand Millennium Hotel
Celebrate the spirit of Ramadan with a Grand Iftar
Buffet at Crystal Ballroom, which will feature an array
of authentic Middle Eastern delicacies and traditional
Ramadan favourites. Accommodating up to 800 guests,
Crystal Ballroom is the ideal venue for corporate
or group Iftars. Guests could also experience the
essence of Ramadan at Taybat restaurant and sample a
sumptuous selection of Ramadan delights, highlighting
an endless Iftar buffet, with a live barbecue station.
FACES May 201850
Get your home ready for the season of
Ramadan with little touches of décor
elements that infuse a feel of spirituality and
the warmth of family love
With Ramadan pressing the brakes on the mundane pace of life to usher in a palpable waft of
spirituality and contemplative quietude, get set to inject the mood of the season into your
home with little touches of décor elements that have Ramadan subtly labelled over them.
Clean up the home
Festivals, traditionally, have been seen as times to undertake thorough cleaning of the home space
to set the pace for the festivities and welcome the season. And with Ramadan advocating
abstinence and spiritual reflection, a home spruced up to create the right ambience gains
all the more significance. What is important here is to give your home a complete
treatment - before the onset of the season, if possible. If not, get your
home ready for the Eid
AT HOME
Home for Ramadan
FACES May 201850
FACES Features10 Cover Story Get inspired this Ramadan with little gems of positive reinforcements from motivational gurus who show the way to pave your path with hope, faith and love
16 In Conversation Turnaround Consultant Dr. Baby Sam Saamuel shares his passion for strategic business development ventures and his dedication for socially empowering projects
18 In the Spotlight Boutique Muscat’s ‘Take a Leap’ project is a perfect platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to leverage their products and discover new growth channels
20 Ramadan Special A quick roundup of Iftar offers and facilities in and around the capital, this Holy Month of Ramadan
FACES Foodie24 Feast On Shanghai Kitchen, the new culinary attraction in Azaiba, is a food theatre, raising curtains to some of the most exotic Chinese fusion dishes in the city
26 Let’s Cook - Seafood starters from Simran Dhanju - Traditional Ramadan recipes
FACES Style28 In The Luxe Chairs may be basic necessities of our everyday lives, but the expensive, exclusive ones are masterpieces crafted to take pampering to another level
30 Look Good If summer tends to turn that occasional bad hair day into a permanent fixture of the season, gear up to beat the heat and the grime with some tender loving home care
32 In Fashion - Centrepoint’s Ramadan 2018 fashion brings luxury and modest glamour to the region with a stunning collection for the whole family
- The ever glowing warmth of the Moroccan desert sets the tone for Mayshad Paris’ Spring/Summer 2018 collection
- Najla Zuhair’s latest collection, ‘Orbit’, evokes modern femininity through organic shapes, bold colours and luxurious hardware
FACES Travel38 Explore Oman Over 300,000 birds of approximately 80 different species have made the intertidal wetland on the coast of Oman their home for resting and feeding during annual migration
40 Just Travel A list of do’s and don’ts to ensure that the summer holiday is stress free and fun filled
FACES Health42 Health Check The Department of Food Science and Nutrition at Sultan Qaboos University, organised a workshop that focused on addressing the basic understanding of antioxidants in relation to risk factors for chronic diseases
46 Diet & Fitness Exercising on an empty stomach is the secret to weight loss, maintain fitness enthusiasts who advocate Ramadan observers to follow a well structured fitness regime if weight loss is on the agenda
FACES Elements 48 Man Date Motivation is illusive; it cannot be seen or tabulated, but on a gender scale, men are seen to be motivated more by results that are measurable than soft issues that drive women
50 At Home Get your home ready for the season of Ramadan with little touches of décor elements that infuse a feel of spirituality and the warmth of family love
52 Relatively Speaking With May ushering in the joys of the Holy month, the time is now to prepare for the season of Ramadan with family and friends
FACES Digest 08 Star Light A tribute to Avicii...
58 Movies & Books Reviews of upcoming movies and books
60 Gadget Notes Roundup of new gadgets in the market
FACES Features10 Cover Story Get inspired this Ramadan with little gems of positive reinforcements from motivational gurus who show the way to pave your path with hope, faith and love
16 In Conversation Turnaround Consultant Dr. Baby Sam Saamuel shares his passion for strategic business development ventures and his dedication for socially empowering projects
18 In the Spotlight Boutique Muscat’s ‘Take a Leap’ project is a perfect platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to leverage their products and discover new growth channels
20 Ramadan Special A quick roundup of Iftar offers and facilities in and around the capital, this Holy Month of Ramadan
FACES Foodie24 Feast On Shanghai Kitchen, the new culinary attraction in Azaiba, is a food theatre, raising curtains to some of the most exotic Chinese fusion dishes in the city
26 Let’s Cook - Seafood starters from Simran Dhanju - Traditional Ramadan recipes
FACES Style28 In The Luxe Chairs may be basic necessities of our everyday lives, but the expensive, exclusive ones are masterpieces crafted to take pampering to another level
30 Look Good If summer tends to turn that occasional bad hair day into a permanent fixture of the season, gear up to beat the heat and the grime with some tender loving home care
32 In Fashion - Centrepoint’s Ramadan 2018 fashion brings luxury and modest glamour to the region with a stunning collection for the whole family
- The ever glowing warmth of the Moroccan desert sets the tone for Mayshad Paris’ Spring/Summer 2018 collection
- Najla Zuhair’s latest collection, ‘Orbit’, evokes modern femininity through organic shapes, bold colours and luxurious hardware
FACES Travel38 Explore Oman Over 300,000 birds of approximately 80 different species have made the intertidal wetland on the coast of Oman their home for resting and feeding during annual migration
40 Just Travel A list of do’s and don’ts to ensure that the summer holiday is stress free and fun filled
FACES Health42 Health Check The Department of Food Science and Nutrition at Sultan Qaboos University, organised a workshop that focused on addressing the basic understanding of antioxidants in relation to risk factors for chronic diseases
46 Diet & Fitness Exercising on an empty stomach is the secret to weight loss, maintain fitness enthusiasts who advocate Ramadan observers to follow a well structured fitness regime if weight loss is on the agenda
FACES Elements 48 Man Date Motivation is illusive; it cannot be seen or tabulated, but on a gender scale, men are seen to be motivated more by results that are measurable than soft issues that drive women
50 At Home Get your home ready for the season of Ramadan with little touches of décor elements that infuse a feel of spirituality and the warmth of family love
52 Relatively Speaking With May ushering in the joys of the Holy month, the time is now to prepare for the season of Ramadan with family and friends
FACES Digest 08 Star Light A tribute to Avicii...
58 Movies & Books Reviews of upcoming movies and books
60 Gadget Notes Roundup of new gadgets in the market
FACES May 20186
Al Mouj Muscat opens Marsa Plaza Al Mouj Muscat opened Marsa Plaza, Muscat’s first public square, recently. Built across 5,000 square metres, Marsa Plaza will be a dedicated platform for the youth to showcase their talents and for Omanis to celebrate and share their rich culture through various events, including music and dance performances, photography and art exhibits. Situated at the end of The Walk, with a panoramic view of the marina and the rest of the development, Marsa Plaza will also serve as a natural corridor for people crossing paths between Al Mouj Marina, The Walk and other residential areas.
Kempinski Hotel Muscat openedDesigned with a variety of local Omani influences, Kempinski Hotel Muscat welcomed the local community and guests visiting the Sultanate of Oman with a grand opening on 4 April. With 310 rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meeting facilities, 10 world-class restaurants and bars, a fully equipped health club and an authentic spa experience, Kempinski Hotel Muscat will be a gateway to an authentic Omani adventure, where guests can experience a mélange of local traditions blended with world-class European luxury guaranteed to create unforgettable memories. The striking diamond-shaped building also hosts 11 separate function rooms.
Cartier in Oman For the first time in Oman, Cartier held a watch-making event at the Chedi Hotel, along with Khimji’s Watches, the Maison’s trusted partner. Welcoming guests to the event, Guillaume Alix, Regional Managing Director at Cartier for the Middle East, India and Africa, said, “It is an honour and a privilege to meet the Maison’s clients and press in Oman today, as there is a very special relationship between Cartier and Oman.” From Santos to Panthere, the Maison`s creativity and innovation have always been boundless. The alluring Panthere motif, with its feline grace has been one of the most beloved icons. Also presented at the event was the Santos de Cartier watch, which has been maintained throughout the successive decades since its creation in 1904.
‘Grand Celebrations’ campaign at OAMMarking its third anniversary, Oman Avenues Mall has launched ‘Grand Celebrations’ to deliver an elevated experience for the visitors. The main highlight of this year’s celebration is the ‘Shop and Win’ sweepstake, wherein the Mall is offering guests a chance to win up to RO 3000 on every RO 10 spent at the mall, from April 20 to May 10. The Mall has also brought in three international entertainers - The Great Dave’s show from Australia, Hugo’s Acrobatic Act from Spain and Mauranga’s one-man show from Argentina. Alongside the celebrations, the OAM has also introduced the ‘Human Claw’, for the first time in Oman. The Human Claw Machine activity can be played every evening from 6pm to 10pm, until May 15.
7May 2018 FACES
Save Big During Weekdays at CCM & CCQSave money by shopping on weekdays at City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum. Majid Al Futtaim has launched a year-long weekday shopping campaign, which will run until 15 December 2018, encouraging customers to save more while shopping. In addition, shoppers can double the chance to win when shopping on Sundays and stand a chance to win RO 100 shopping spree every week. Shoppers need to spend RO 15 at City Centre Qurum and RO 20 at City Centre Muscat to participate in the weekly draw. On Sundays, shoppers who redeem two receipts will get four chances; redeem three receipts and get six chances to win a weekly prize. Also, visitors can take advantage of loyalty cards as major retailers are offering special loyalty cards and early sale access to frequent customers.
Oman Air is ‘Middle East’s Leading Airline’Oman Air has been recognised as ‘The Middle East’s Leading Airline’ in both the Business Class and Economy Class categories, at the World Travel Awards held in the lead up to Arabian Travel Market. The World Travel Awards reward, recognise and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry. The Awards were presented at a glittering gala dinner held at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. Paul Starrs, Chief Commercial Officer Oman Air, and Jamal Al Azki, Country Manager Oman, received the awards, on behalf of Oman Air. The most recent awards join the previous World Travel Awards presented to Oman Air in the last successive years of 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort’s exclusive summer offersAnantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is offering a refreshing staycation this summer, thanks to its mountain location, which remains 15-20 degrees cooler than the rest of the GCC, making it the perfect place to #BeatTheHeat. Starting from 1st May, the exclusive GCC resident offer provides discount of up to 15 percent off the Best Flexible Rate. Guests can choose to stay in one of the 33 villas which boast private temperature controlled infinity pools, or choose from a wide selection of Premier and Deluxe Rooms that offer jaw-dropping views of the dramatic canyon. The offer also includes daily breakfast and dinner plus 10 percent off selected Anantara Spa treatments and additional food and beverage.
FACES May 20186
Al Mouj Muscat opens Marsa Plaza Al Mouj Muscat opened Marsa Plaza, Muscat’s first public square, recently. Built across 5,000 square metres, Marsa Plaza will be a dedicated platform for the youth to showcase their talents and for Omanis to celebrate and share their rich culture through various events, including music and dance performances, photography and art exhibits. Situated at the end of The Walk, with a panoramic view of the marina and the rest of the development, Marsa Plaza will also serve as a natural corridor for people crossing paths between Al Mouj Marina, The Walk and other residential areas.
Kempinski Hotel Muscat openedDesigned with a variety of local Omani influences, Kempinski Hotel Muscat welcomed the local community and guests visiting the Sultanate of Oman with a grand opening on 4 April. With 310 rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meeting facilities, 10 world-class restaurants and bars, a fully equipped health club and an authentic spa experience, Kempinski Hotel Muscat will be a gateway to an authentic Omani adventure, where guests can experience a mélange of local traditions blended with world-class European luxury guaranteed to create unforgettable memories. The striking diamond-shaped building also hosts 11 separate function rooms.
Cartier in Oman For the first time in Oman, Cartier held a watch-making event at the Chedi Hotel, along with Khimji’s Watches, the Maison’s trusted partner. Welcoming guests to the event, Guillaume Alix, Regional Managing Director at Cartier for the Middle East, India and Africa, said, “It is an honour and a privilege to meet the Maison’s clients and press in Oman today, as there is a very special relationship between Cartier and Oman.” From Santos to Panthere, the Maison`s creativity and innovation have always been boundless. The alluring Panthere motif, with its feline grace has been one of the most beloved icons. Also presented at the event was the Santos de Cartier watch, which has been maintained throughout the successive decades since its creation in 1904.
‘Grand Celebrations’ campaign at OAMMarking its third anniversary, Oman Avenues Mall has launched ‘Grand Celebrations’ to deliver an elevated experience for the visitors. The main highlight of this year’s celebration is the ‘Shop and Win’ sweepstake, wherein the Mall is offering guests a chance to win up to RO 3000 on every RO 10 spent at the mall, from April 20 to May 10. The Mall has also brought in three international entertainers - The Great Dave’s show from Australia, Hugo’s Acrobatic Act from Spain and Mauranga’s one-man show from Argentina. Alongside the celebrations, the OAM has also introduced the ‘Human Claw’, for the first time in Oman. The Human Claw Machine activity can be played every evening from 6pm to 10pm, until May 15.
7May 2018 FACES
Save Big During Weekdays at CCM & CCQSave money by shopping on weekdays at City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum. Majid Al Futtaim has launched a year-long weekday shopping campaign, which will run until 15 December 2018, encouraging customers to save more while shopping. In addition, shoppers can double the chance to win when shopping on Sundays and stand a chance to win RO 100 shopping spree every week. Shoppers need to spend RO 15 at City Centre Qurum and RO 20 at City Centre Muscat to participate in the weekly draw. On Sundays, shoppers who redeem two receipts will get four chances; redeem three receipts and get six chances to win a weekly prize. Also, visitors can take advantage of loyalty cards as major retailers are offering special loyalty cards and early sale access to frequent customers.
Oman Air is ‘Middle East’s Leading Airline’Oman Air has been recognised as ‘The Middle East’s Leading Airline’ in both the Business Class and Economy Class categories, at the World Travel Awards held in the lead up to Arabian Travel Market. The World Travel Awards reward, recognise and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry. The Awards were presented at a glittering gala dinner held at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. Paul Starrs, Chief Commercial Officer Oman Air, and Jamal Al Azki, Country Manager Oman, received the awards, on behalf of Oman Air. The most recent awards join the previous World Travel Awards presented to Oman Air in the last successive years of 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort’s exclusive summer offersAnantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is offering a refreshing staycation this summer, thanks to its mountain location, which remains 15-20 degrees cooler than the rest of the GCC, making it the perfect place to #BeatTheHeat. Starting from 1st May, the exclusive GCC resident offer provides discount of up to 15 percent off the Best Flexible Rate. Guests can choose to stay in one of the 33 villas which boast private temperature controlled infinity pools, or choose from a wide selection of Premier and Deluxe Rooms that offer jaw-dropping views of the dramatic canyon. The offer also includes daily breakfast and dinner plus 10 percent off selected Anantara Spa treatments and additional food and beverage.
FACES May 20188
As flash news on television announced the death of Avicii, etching a sense of deep loss among his fans around the world, the dateline, ‘in Muscat’, sent a jolt of awakening among residents here, even those who had only heard the musician’s name in passing
Although celebrities are known to visit Oman to savour its nature endowed vistas and
find succour in the calming effect of its deserts, mountains and the seas, it is the promise of secrecy, the sense of anonymity it discreetly endows, that has endeared it to many. Like Avicii. His visit to Muscat would have never made it to the headlines… If only!
Avicii spent his last days in harmony with nature, in the restrained charm the city boasts. While speculations and rumours spread through the city, following the tragic news, a statement from his representative announced thus: “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii. He was found dead in Muscat, Oman this Friday afternoon. The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time. No further statements will be given.”
Artist, DJ, and producer Tim Bergling, better known by his stage name Avicii, died on April 20. He was
ST R light
28. Death came much too soon for Avicii, who only two years ago had announced his retirement from live tours. He was at the peak of his success when he took the big step, citing health reasons that were triggered by excessive drinking.
He’d announced: “We all reach a point in our lives and careers where we understand what matters the most to us. For me it’s creating music. That is what I live for, what I feel I was born to do. Last year I quit performing live, and many of you thought that was it. But the end of ‘live’ never meant the end of Avicii or my music. Instead, I went back to the place where it all made sense – the studio. The next stage will be all about my love of making music to you guys. It is the beginning of something new.”
That something new didn’t last long.He was one of the most popular and successful electronic dance-music artists of all time. He’d scored a No. 4 hit on the Billboard 200 in 2013 with ‘Wake Me Up’ and had regularly
appeared in the Top 5 of Forbes’ ‘Highest-Paid DJs’ lists. He was only 16 years old when he began his music career by posting his remixes in online forums of electronic music. That led him to sign his first record label deal and he soon savoured success with his breakthrough single ‘Levels’, in 2011. It was, however, his debut studio album, ‘True’, which featured several music genres that pushed his popularity. The album peaked within the top ten in more than fifteen countries and topped the Australian, Swedish, Danish and US dance charts. It was supported by the lead single ‘Wake Me Up’, which topped most music markets in Europe and reached number four in the US. In 2015 he released his second studio album, ‘Stories’, and in 2017 he released an EP titled ‘Avīci (01)’.
He’d said, “I am a DJ. I get the party started.” Somewhere in heaven, he has got a raving party started, for sure.
AVICII:A tribute fromMuscat
FACES May 20188
HA
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FACES May 20188
As flash news on television announced the death of Avicii, etching a sense of deep loss among his fans around the world, the dateline, ‘in Muscat’, sent a jolt of awakening among residents here, even those who had only heard the musician’s name in passing
Although celebrities are known to visit Oman to savour its nature endowed vistas and
find succour in the calming effect of its deserts, mountains and the seas, it is the promise of secrecy, the sense of anonymity it discreetly endows, that has endeared it to many. Like Avicii. His visit to Muscat would have never made it to the headlines… If only!
Avicii spent his last days in harmony with nature, in the restrained charm the city boasts. While speculations and rumours spread through the city, following the tragic news, a statement from his representative announced thus: “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii. He was found dead in Muscat, Oman this Friday afternoon. The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time. No further statements will be given.”
Artist, DJ, and producer Tim Bergling, better known by his stage name Avicii, died on April 20. He was
ST R light
28. Death came much too soon for Avicii, who only two years ago had announced his retirement from live tours. He was at the peak of his success when he took the big step, citing health reasons that were triggered by excessive drinking.
He’d announced: “We all reach a point in our lives and careers where we understand what matters the most to us. For me it’s creating music. That is what I live for, what I feel I was born to do. Last year I quit performing live, and many of you thought that was it. But the end of ‘live’ never meant the end of Avicii or my music. Instead, I went back to the place where it all made sense – the studio. The next stage will be all about my love of making music to you guys. It is the beginning of something new.”
That something new didn’t last long.He was one of the most popular and successful electronic dance-music artists of all time. He’d scored a No. 4 hit on the Billboard 200 in 2013 with ‘Wake Me Up’ and had regularly
appeared in the Top 5 of Forbes’ ‘Highest-Paid DJs’ lists. He was only 16 years old when he began his music career by posting his remixes in online forums of electronic music. That led him to sign his first record label deal and he soon savoured success with his breakthrough single ‘Levels’, in 2011. It was, however, his debut studio album, ‘True’, which featured several music genres that pushed his popularity. The album peaked within the top ten in more than fifteen countries and topped the Australian, Swedish, Danish and US dance charts. It was supported by the lead single ‘Wake Me Up’, which topped most music markets in Europe and reached number four in the US. In 2015 he released his second studio album, ‘Stories’, and in 2017 he released an EP titled ‘Avīci (01)’.
He’d said, “I am a DJ. I get the party started.” Somewhere in heaven, he has got a raving party started, for sure.
AVICII:A tribute fromMuscat
FACES May 20188
FACES May 201810
Inspired Living
‘Be the bestversion ofyourself’
Get inspired this Ramadan with little gems of positive reinforcements from motivational gurus who show the way to pave your path with hope, faith and love
Experience might come with age, but age, per se, is not a limiting factor when disbursing motivational mantras, as Afrah Moosa, a 23-year old student of Sultan Qaboos University, demonstrates
COVER STORY
Afrah Moosa (Afran on social media) is a growing phenomenon; she is fast stamping her mark across different social media platforms as a positive influencer for the youth. A student of marketing, she relies on her social media accounts (@afranation) and her Youtube channel to reach out and spread her message of hope and inspiration. In the following interview, she presents snippets of those inspirational messages...
What is your philosophy on life and living?Honestly, to me, life should be lived to its fullest; filling it with things you love doing, experiencing new, different stuff and visiting new places. Life isn’t meant to be lived in one place, doing the same one thing. As a human, you should aim to be nice to everyone and everything around you, kind to the environment, and accepting of others. Also, in my opinion, we can and should try to be the best versions of ourselves, never harming anyone.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks?Most of them. I try to talk from experience (not to sound clichéd, or look like I am trying to seem better than anyone). I want people
Afrah Moosa
11May 2018 FACES
COVER STORY
to relate to me, to know that I am just like them; the only differene is I have chosen to speak up about what I think needs fixing around us. What are the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?To be frank, people are often supportive, kind and helpful. But, I have faced some problems with people who thought I was only doing it to become popular or to show off; which is something that I have predicted. Some, also were annoyed with the idea of an Omani girl showing up on social media, talking…as it is a bit unusual in our society, and I accept that, as long as I know it won’t stop me. I consider myself a strong-willed person and I try to always take the criticisms that I get with an open heart.
Is positive thinking all that it is made out to be? No, everything I say or talk about I try to make it revolve around the idea of criticising and aiming to fix what needs fixing. Positive thinking solely won’t take us anywhere, and I am personally a bit sceptical of the big speeches given about positive
thinking. If you don’t work hard, no change will take place. What are the values you endorse to foster self-growth among children?Follow your dreams; work towards self-independence; fight for justice; and, you are never too important to be kind. Are we focusing overtly on the concept of success and not grasping the import of personality development among children? In a way, yes, we are. We keep telling them that if you study you will go to this university or that country to study, that if you become this or that, then you have succeeded. We give all the attention to the results we want them to achieve, but not really teach them how best to get there; how to develop oneself on the way to become something great. What is needed to help children learn the positive facets of sharing and caring? Children learn through their environment. If what is around them shows them how to share and care, then it will affect them directly;
however, if the environment tells but never shows, what is the point of it all? Contradicting oneself, while trying to send a message, does not work with kids, especially if we are trying to send a positive one. I say for the older ones to be role models; kids will follow. What is your most important advice for people to stay motivated?Break the routine, always reflect, be patient but never settle for less than what you want. And personally, I think everyone should travel a bit more and GET INSPIRED. How can the season of Ramadan help one to become mentally and emotionally strong?This season is already designed to be one of the best times of the year: to fix something in oneself, to break the routine, to let go of a bad a habit. Think of it as a 30 day challenge; except, you have more focus, you are already doing wonderful by fasting all day, therefore, you are capable of anything. Make a plan…baby steps, and by the end of the month, you are a different person. Trust me on this one.
FACES May 201810
Inspired Living
‘Be the bestversion ofyourself’
Get inspired this Ramadan with little gems of positive reinforcements from motivational gurus who show the way to pave your path with hope, faith and love
Experience might come with age, but age, per se, is not a limiting factor when disbursing motivational mantras, as Afrah Moosa, a 23-year old student of Sultan Qaboos University, demonstrates
COVER STORY
Afrah Moosa (Afran on social media) is a growing phenomenon; she is fast stamping her mark across different social media platforms as a positive influencer for the youth. A student of marketing, she relies on her social media accounts (@afranation) and her Youtube channel to reach out and spread her message of hope and inspiration. In the following interview, she presents snippets of those inspirational messages...
What is your philosophy on life and living?Honestly, to me, life should be lived to its fullest; filling it with things you love doing, experiencing new, different stuff and visiting new places. Life isn’t meant to be lived in one place, doing the same one thing. As a human, you should aim to be nice to everyone and everything around you, kind to the environment, and accepting of others. Also, in my opinion, we can and should try to be the best versions of ourselves, never harming anyone.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks?Most of them. I try to talk from experience (not to sound clichéd, or look like I am trying to seem better than anyone). I want people
Afrah Moosa
11May 2018 FACES
COVER STORY
to relate to me, to know that I am just like them; the only differene is I have chosen to speak up about what I think needs fixing around us. What are the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?To be frank, people are often supportive, kind and helpful. But, I have faced some problems with people who thought I was only doing it to become popular or to show off; which is something that I have predicted. Some, also were annoyed with the idea of an Omani girl showing up on social media, talking…as it is a bit unusual in our society, and I accept that, as long as I know it won’t stop me. I consider myself a strong-willed person and I try to always take the criticisms that I get with an open heart.
Is positive thinking all that it is made out to be? No, everything I say or talk about I try to make it revolve around the idea of criticising and aiming to fix what needs fixing. Positive thinking solely won’t take us anywhere, and I am personally a bit sceptical of the big speeches given about positive
thinking. If you don’t work hard, no change will take place. What are the values you endorse to foster self-growth among children?Follow your dreams; work towards self-independence; fight for justice; and, you are never too important to be kind. Are we focusing overtly on the concept of success and not grasping the import of personality development among children? In a way, yes, we are. We keep telling them that if you study you will go to this university or that country to study, that if you become this or that, then you have succeeded. We give all the attention to the results we want them to achieve, but not really teach them how best to get there; how to develop oneself on the way to become something great. What is needed to help children learn the positive facets of sharing and caring? Children learn through their environment. If what is around them shows them how to share and care, then it will affect them directly;
however, if the environment tells but never shows, what is the point of it all? Contradicting oneself, while trying to send a message, does not work with kids, especially if we are trying to send a positive one. I say for the older ones to be role models; kids will follow. What is your most important advice for people to stay motivated?Break the routine, always reflect, be patient but never settle for less than what you want. And personally, I think everyone should travel a bit more and GET INSPIRED. How can the season of Ramadan help one to become mentally and emotionally strong?This season is already designed to be one of the best times of the year: to fix something in oneself, to break the routine, to let go of a bad a habit. Think of it as a 30 day challenge; except, you have more focus, you are already doing wonderful by fasting all day, therefore, you are capable of anything. Make a plan…baby steps, and by the end of the month, you are a different person. Trust me on this one.
FACES May 201812
Virtue of Patience
As a corporate trainer, I believe employers should take time to acknowledge their staff for their roles in the organisation. Don’t just see them as numbers to fill the gaps, but as humans who need help and support.
What is your thought on positive thinking?I see positive thinking as a drive for achievement. It is within your mind, but its impact goes beyond that. I would say more, since the process that begins with a thought ends with reality. Some people are self-motivated, so they decide to be positive on different occasions where others might require support in order to achieve that level of positivity.
How can parents/caregivers inculcate the importance of self-development in children?By planting a sense of responsibility and a sense of purpose in them.
Are we focusing overtly on the concept of success and not grasping the import of personality development among children?We need to first define what we mean by success, which is not an easy
answer. Every individual will define it differently. However, with all that, I believe personality development is important at all times - from cradle to grave. What is needed to help children learn the positive facets of sharing and caring?Show them the results of doing that. Let it be sensible. Share stories that will touch them. Take them by their hands. What is your most important advice for people to stay motivated?Remember why you are here and what the purpose of your existence is. Are you a random person or someone who will add something to this life? Each one of us has something that he/she is good at. Look for what you have and get started. How can the season of Ramadan help one to become mentally and emotionally strong?Ramadan teaches us the virtue of patience. It builds up that value in us. Ramadan is not just about fasting, but also about how you interact with people and things in a better way. In short, Ramadan is a month of stress-relief.
What is your philosophy on life and living?Life is a beautiful mystery; it is not just a routine. There is always something new to discover.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks?In most of the topics that I speak about! For example, when I talk about loyalty at work, then I would relate it to how I defined my purpose in order to become a speaker, and so, how can one define his/her purpose to perform the job. At the start, all what I wanted was to make money by speaking to people, until I received positive feedback from people through my talks. That’s when I found my real purpose of speaking, i.e. to help inspire people.
What are some of the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?The biggest challenge is when some clients don’t consider motivational talks essential, in a way where they would need to invest more money on hiring them. It is not really about money. It is more about giving value to speakers and their topics.
COVER STORY
FACES April 201812
Ali Al-Farai, Oman’s champion public speaker and Middle East finalist of Toastmasters International Speech Contest, has long been sharing his knowledge of Islam through his ‘Ummati Station’ channel on YouTube. In the following interview, he throws the spotlight on personality development and spiritual reflection to gear up for
the Holy Month.
Established motivational speaker and trainer Ali Al-Farai relies on social platforms to reach across to his listeners on the virtues of patience, positive thinking, responsibility, and the whole gamut of inspired living Ali Al-Farai
13May 2018 FACES
Ramadan ushers in pleasant vibes and helps inculcate positive thoughts and values, observes Ahmed Hilal Al-Busaidi, a public speaker, trainer and a motivator
26-year old Ahmed Al-Busaidi is an information technology graduate and a Competent Communicator (CC) from Toastmasters International, who has well understood that success, is a process, not a goal. Here is his take on everyday motivation for inspired living:
What is your philosophy on life and living?I believe that we only live once so we should make the best of it. Life is an opportunity for those who want to achieve... dream big and work hard. You will succeed.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks? Almost all of them ... I like to keep myself close to the audience by giving my life lessons to them and allowing them to express and share theirs.
What are some of the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?The main challenge I believe, one that must be addressed, is that a lot of the youth today are immersed so much in social media that they think it can teach them real life lessons on communication and its skills. But
COVER STORY
this is not a good approach, as it wouldn’t serve long term in life. As a speaker, I think we should be given better opportunities by decision makers to talk to youth directly about life lessons.
Should positive thinking be the focus of motivational talks?It’s a big part of it, but it’s not all of it. A successful speaker needs to be a good story teller and with good understanding of people’s vibes and energy.
What are the values you endorse to foster self-growth among children?Allowing children to be spontaneous and just being themselves. Letting them ask questions and never becoming over-protective as a parent.
Are we focusing overtly on the concept of success and not grasping the import of personality development among children? Unfortunately, yes. Success, in my opinion, is a process not a goal or a final destination. I believe children and people in general should always be big dreamers and planners, as this leads to personal growth which, consequently, builds up a successful person.
What is needed to help children learn the positive facets of sharing and caring? Set an example ourselves... If we adults are loving human beings, then children will learn these values from us.
What is your most important advice for people to get motivated in their lives?Dream big ... Work hard and always be open for new experiences and opportunities.
How can the season of Ramadan help one to become mentally and emotionally strong?Ramadan is a holy month in which we get attached to the spiritual values, such as love and inner-peace. A good vibe is spread around in this holy month. This, for sure, leads to a person becoming stronger, both mentally and emotionally. So, it’s like a resetting point for the Muslim community, which leads to strength and harmony, adding value on a personal and societal level.
Ahmed Hilal Al-Busaidi
Spread good vibes
FACES May 201812
Virtue of Patience
As a corporate trainer, I believe employers should take time to acknowledge their staff for their roles in the organisation. Don’t just see them as numbers to fill the gaps, but as humans who need help and support.
What is your thought on positive thinking?I see positive thinking as a drive for achievement. It is within your mind, but its impact goes beyond that. I would say more, since the process that begins with a thought ends with reality. Some people are self-motivated, so they decide to be positive on different occasions where others might require support in order to achieve that level of positivity.
How can parents/caregivers inculcate the importance of self-development in children?By planting a sense of responsibility and a sense of purpose in them.
Are we focusing overtly on the concept of success and not grasping the import of personality development among children?We need to first define what we mean by success, which is not an easy
answer. Every individual will define it differently. However, with all that, I believe personality development is important at all times - from cradle to grave. What is needed to help children learn the positive facets of sharing and caring?Show them the results of doing that. Let it be sensible. Share stories that will touch them. Take them by their hands. What is your most important advice for people to stay motivated?Remember why you are here and what the purpose of your existence is. Are you a random person or someone who will add something to this life? Each one of us has something that he/she is good at. Look for what you have and get started. How can the season of Ramadan help one to become mentally and emotionally strong?Ramadan teaches us the virtue of patience. It builds up that value in us. Ramadan is not just about fasting, but also about how you interact with people and things in a better way. In short, Ramadan is a month of stress-relief.
What is your philosophy on life and living?Life is a beautiful mystery; it is not just a routine. There is always something new to discover.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks?In most of the topics that I speak about! For example, when I talk about loyalty at work, then I would relate it to how I defined my purpose in order to become a speaker, and so, how can one define his/her purpose to perform the job. At the start, all what I wanted was to make money by speaking to people, until I received positive feedback from people through my talks. That’s when I found my real purpose of speaking, i.e. to help inspire people.
What are some of the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?The biggest challenge is when some clients don’t consider motivational talks essential, in a way where they would need to invest more money on hiring them. It is not really about money. It is more about giving value to speakers and their topics.
COVER STORY
FACES April 201812
Ali Al-Farai, Oman’s champion public speaker and Middle East finalist of Toastmasters International Speech Contest, has long been sharing his knowledge of Islam through his ‘Ummati Station’ channel on YouTube. In the following interview, he throws the spotlight on personality development and spiritual reflection to gear up for
the Holy Month.
Established motivational speaker and trainer Ali Al-Farai relies on social platforms to reach across to his listeners on the virtues of patience, positive thinking, responsibility, and the whole gamut of inspired living Ali Al-Farai
13May 2018 FACES
Ramadan ushers in pleasant vibes and helps inculcate positive thoughts and values, observes Ahmed Hilal Al-Busaidi, a public speaker, trainer and a motivator
26-year old Ahmed Al-Busaidi is an information technology graduate and a Competent Communicator (CC) from Toastmasters International, who has well understood that success, is a process, not a goal. Here is his take on everyday motivation for inspired living:
What is your philosophy on life and living?I believe that we only live once so we should make the best of it. Life is an opportunity for those who want to achieve... dream big and work hard. You will succeed.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks? Almost all of them ... I like to keep myself close to the audience by giving my life lessons to them and allowing them to express and share theirs.
What are some of the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?The main challenge I believe, one that must be addressed, is that a lot of the youth today are immersed so much in social media that they think it can teach them real life lessons on communication and its skills. But
COVER STORY
this is not a good approach, as it wouldn’t serve long term in life. As a speaker, I think we should be given better opportunities by decision makers to talk to youth directly about life lessons.
Should positive thinking be the focus of motivational talks?It’s a big part of it, but it’s not all of it. A successful speaker needs to be a good story teller and with good understanding of people’s vibes and energy.
What are the values you endorse to foster self-growth among children?Allowing children to be spontaneous and just being themselves. Letting them ask questions and never becoming over-protective as a parent.
Are we focusing overtly on the concept of success and not grasping the import of personality development among children? Unfortunately, yes. Success, in my opinion, is a process not a goal or a final destination. I believe children and people in general should always be big dreamers and planners, as this leads to personal growth which, consequently, builds up a successful person.
What is needed to help children learn the positive facets of sharing and caring? Set an example ourselves... If we adults are loving human beings, then children will learn these values from us.
What is your most important advice for people to get motivated in their lives?Dream big ... Work hard and always be open for new experiences and opportunities.
How can the season of Ramadan help one to become mentally and emotionally strong?Ramadan is a holy month in which we get attached to the spiritual values, such as love and inner-peace. A good vibe is spread around in this holy month. This, for sure, leads to a person becoming stronger, both mentally and emotionally. So, it’s like a resetting point for the Muslim community, which leads to strength and harmony, adding value on a personal and societal level.
Ahmed Hilal Al-Busaidi
Spread good vibes
FACES May 201814
‘Seek the purposeof your life’‘Wise is the one who utters good, or keeps silent’, maintains Haitham Al-Hatmi, who strongly believes a message, whether negative or positive, should benefit the target audience
Haitham Al-Hatmi, an expert speaker on Islam, education and youth development, spent 8 years in the United Kingdom, doing his higher
education, before returning back home to Oman to seek employment, while utilising his talent to lecture on a host of motivational topics, including religion.
Following are his replies to a questionnaire on the importance of inspired living:
What is your philosophy on life and living?To sum up my core philosophy on life, it is the statement of the Prophet of Allah, Muhammad (peace be upon him), who said, ‘The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people’. And so, I like to consider myself as an individual trying to live life in order to benefit the people around me; whether it’s through giving a motivational lecture, or conducting workshops for the youth. Whether it’s benefiting family, friends or colleagues, I believe the best of legacies is the legacy that helped people enjoin the good and forbid the evil.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks?Not much. Most of my talks incorporate life lessons of the prophets of God, those who were guided by God and were chosen by Him to be examples to mankind.
What are some of the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?Where do I start…? I guess the underlying issue for me is my need to know who my audiences are. I have no problem with confidence, because I am normally passionate about what I say; but when I do not know my audience, I can say the most irrelevant things that put the listeners off completely.
Is positive thinking all that it is made out to be? Well, positive thinking is certainly necessary, because if you are not positive, then you are not trying to solve any problems. You are actually just focusing on the problems. The focus of any speech, in my opinion, should be the benefit that your message offers to the audience. Whether your message is positive or negative, if it does not hold any benefit to the audience, then it does not deserve to be mentioned. Wise is the one who utters good, or keeps silent.
COVER STORY
Haitham Al-Hatmi
FACES May 201814
‘Seek the purposeof your life’‘Wise is the one who utters good, or keeps silent’, maintains Haitham Al-Hatmi, who strongly believes a message, whether negative or positive, should benefit the target audience
Haitham Al-Hatmi, an expert speaker on Islam, education and youth development, spent 8 years in the United Kingdom, doing his higher
education, before returning back home to Oman to seek employment, while utilising his talent to lecture on a host of motivational topics, including religion.
Following are his replies to a questionnaire on the importance of inspired living:
What is your philosophy on life and living?To sum up my core philosophy on life, it is the statement of the Prophet of Allah, Muhammad (peace be upon him), who said, ‘The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people’. And so, I like to consider myself as an individual trying to live life in order to benefit the people around me; whether it’s through giving a motivational lecture, or conducting workshops for the youth. Whether it’s benefiting family, friends or colleagues, I believe the best of legacies is the legacy that helped people enjoin the good and forbid the evil.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks?Not much. Most of my talks incorporate life lessons of the prophets of God, those who were guided by God and were chosen by Him to be examples to mankind.
What are some of the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?Where do I start…? I guess the underlying issue for me is my need to know who my audiences are. I have no problem with confidence, because I am normally passionate about what I say; but when I do not know my audience, I can say the most irrelevant things that put the listeners off completely.
Is positive thinking all that it is made out to be? Well, positive thinking is certainly necessary, because if you are not positive, then you are not trying to solve any problems. You are actually just focusing on the problems. The focus of any speech, in my opinion, should be the benefit that your message offers to the audience. Whether your message is positive or negative, if it does not hold any benefit to the audience, then it does not deserve to be mentioned. Wise is the one who utters good, or keeps silent.
COVER STORY
Haitham Al-Hatmi
15May 2018 FACES
COVER STORY
What are the values you endorse to foster self-growth among children?The youth of today are the youth of tomorrow, and so every stage of their development is key. From the values that I endorse, the value of being humble is especially for children. In order for children to grow into the leaders of tomorrow, they need to have their feet grounded and show appreciation to the life that is around them. Which leads me to the second value I like to mention: allow children to have achievable targets and, towards this, educate them on being focused on their goals. Once children are used to the concept of staying focused on a task, they will grow into problem-solvers and not problem-makers - God Willing!
Are we focusing overtly on the concept of success and not grasping the import of personality development among children?Well, you see, the problem at its core is this: what is the yard stick being used to measure success? Success, in my eyes, is when we leave behind a generation that will make this world a better place. Be it from our own children or the youth at large. And the best way to do that is to help develop and nurture our children’s personalities in order for them to be pioneers in helping the world tomorrow.
What is needed to help children learn the positive facets of sharing and caring?It starts with parents. I would strongly encourage parents to practice selflessness as much as
possible around their children. Also, there is no stronger incentive to sharing and caring like the incentive of pleasing God Almighty. If children know that Allah loves those who give and that the reward is mighty in this world and the next, then this is enough positivity for children to strive to become caring individuals. Work for the hereafter, and Allah will be enough for you in your worldly concerns.
What is your most important advice for people to stay motivated in their lives?Seek the purpose of your existence. Why are we here? What is the purpose in my life? Finding the answers to these questions might give you something to be motivated
about in your life. And, if you want advice on where to start to look for the answers, then I recommend the book (which has no doubt in it), which is the word of our Creator in the Glorious Quran.
How can the season of Ramadan help one to become mentally and emotionally strong?Fasting is not about abandoning evil for one month. Fasting is a training centre, a boot camp; a one month intensive course on the art of complete self-devotion to the almighty God. If you can do it in one month, then let’s try walking this same journey through the entirety of our life. That is the way Ramadan helps one become mentally and emotionally strong
15May 2018 FACES
May 201816
Turnaround Consultant Dr. Baby Sam Saamuel shares his passion for strategic business development ventures and his dedication for socially empowering projects
“I am motivated by challenges…” Coming from Dr Baby Sam Saamuel, it is clear that that is a rule which he follows to the letter, than an exception that he relies on to find a groove. He is equally motivated by action and purpose and has his business sensors honed to focus on projects where he can make a difference.
Acting as the General Manager of the IT solutions firm InterTech LLC, in addition to his roles as Business Consultant and Business Mentor, he has mastered the art of engaging in different projects in various capacities. As he explains, “I act as a business consultant offering an external eye and approach in Turnaround Management, Strategic Consultancy and Business Mentoring and have had diverse opportunities in this arena across domains like IT, design, services, etc. This is especially relevant for small start-ups.”
A student of management, he maintains that he began his career like any other fresh management graduate. However, in 2009 he got an opportunity to test his mettle as a Turnaround Consultant, and there
was no turning back. He describes Turnaround Management as an arena within management where the aim of bringing around sustainable growth, productivity and profitability is both a worthy objective and a unique obstacle.
It is this appetite for management and the passion to excel that has seen him successfully donning multiple caps. He is the Chairman, Board of Directors of Indian Schools in Oman; Director of Knowledge Oman (KO); President of ‘Anjappam Charitable Trust’, a social enterprise organisation functional in India; and Business Designer and Organization Mentor for the publishing house Trifoil Advertising, among others.
His work with educational organisations provides him the space to address challenges in basic education, higher education and entrepreneurship at grass roots
level, while engaging with other stakeholders, such as parents, faculty, entrepreneurs etc.
But something that he classifies as his calling is social empowerment. Explaining about his work in that direction, he says, “A major emphasis of my work as business mentor is in supporting and promoting small enterprises, particularly those with potential for community impact, such as social enterprises. One such example is Anjappam, an economy restaurant where food is served free or at low cost to the needy.”
A researcher, academic and motivational speaker, Dr Baby Sam, who lives in Oman with his wife, a regulatory executive in a pharmaceutical organisation, and their two children (a son aged 13 and a 6 year old daughter), is keen to explore his passion for helping as many people as possible to realise
IN CONVERSATION
Business Matters
May 201816
Turnaround Consultant Dr. Baby Sam Saamuel shares his passion for strategic business development ventures and his dedication for socially empowering projects
“I am motivated by challenges…” Coming from Dr Baby Sam Saamuel, it is clear that that is a rule which he follows to the letter, than an exception that he relies on to find a groove. He is equally motivated by action and purpose and has his business sensors honed to focus on projects where he can make a difference.
Acting as the General Manager of the IT solutions firm InterTech LLC, in addition to his roles as Business Consultant and Business Mentor, he has mastered the art of engaging in different projects in various capacities. As he explains, “I act as a business consultant offering an external eye and approach in Turnaround Management, Strategic Consultancy and Business Mentoring and have had diverse opportunities in this arena across domains like IT, design, services, etc. This is especially relevant for small start-ups.”
A student of management, he maintains that he began his career like any other fresh management graduate. However, in 2009 he got an opportunity to test his mettle as a Turnaround Consultant, and there
was no turning back. He describes Turnaround Management as an arena within management where the aim of bringing around sustainable growth, productivity and profitability is both a worthy objective and a unique obstacle.
It is this appetite for management and the passion to excel that has seen him successfully donning multiple caps. He is the Chairman, Board of Directors of Indian Schools in Oman; Director of Knowledge Oman (KO); President of ‘Anjappam Charitable Trust’, a social enterprise organisation functional in India; and Business Designer and Organization Mentor for the publishing house Trifoil Advertising, among others.
His work with educational organisations provides him the space to address challenges in basic education, higher education and entrepreneurship at grass roots
level, while engaging with other stakeholders, such as parents, faculty, entrepreneurs etc.
But something that he classifies as his calling is social empowerment. Explaining about his work in that direction, he says, “A major emphasis of my work as business mentor is in supporting and promoting small enterprises, particularly those with potential for community impact, such as social enterprises. One such example is Anjappam, an economy restaurant where food is served free or at low cost to the needy.”
A researcher, academic and motivational speaker, Dr Baby Sam, who lives in Oman with his wife, a regulatory executive in a pharmaceutical organisation, and their two children (a son aged 13 and a 6 year old daughter), is keen to explore his passion for helping as many people as possible to realise
IN CONVERSATION
Business Matters
17May 2018
The home I grew up in... Is in a small village in Kerala, India.When I was a child I wanted to... Be a civil service servant like the famous movie characters of that era.The moment that changed me forever...That moment in 2009 when I first began to realise my true passion and calling for transformative actions in business and society.My greatest inspiration... Some special needs children I know - so innocently happy, thriving and content in life and their support network/care workers – who give so much and so effortlessly.My hero…A mix of Steve Jobs, Elon Musk and Bobby Jose Kattikadu.If I could change one thing about myself...Many things: like devote more
IN CONVERSATION
Up Close & Personal With
Dr. Baby Sam Saamuel
and actualise their true potential. “I believe in the unlimited impact of a determined, self-aware and self-actualised person. In whatever small ways I can, I would like to try to wake the need for self-actualisation and self-fulfilment that is lying dormant within people,” he adds.
On the business front, his immediate plans are to continue to focus on all the projects that he is currently a part of. “While the specific vision for each entity may vary, the overall goal is to grow and expand sustainably and establish each as the best in its field,” notes Dr. Baby Sam, a winner of 2015 Golden Achievement Award for Business Consulting Services.
Additionally, he is keen to promote and establish social enterprises in Oman and in the region. In a few years time he hopes to see a significantly altered social enterprise scene in Oman; one that will build a lasting community that works with each other, for the greater good of all.
time for health, or say ‘no’ more often. But I am a constant work in progress.
I dream of...More peace. More empathy. More human connections.What I see when I look in the mirror... Hopefully, someone who is older and wiser than yesterday.
It’s not fashionable but I like... In-person talks, rather than WhatsApp chats.My greatest regret...Not reading more.You may not know it but I’m no good at....Small talk. I am actually a very private, introverted person and small talk does not come easily for me.
You may not know it but I’m very good at…Counselling. If I have time to myself... I would like to catch up on a very long reading list.My house is... My haven. It is my fortress where I
regain my thoughts, peace and energy for the next day.My favourite haunt/holiday destination... I am a homebody and would like nothing better than to relax at home for a staycation.I will not leave my house without…A to-do list, my phone and wallet.Things I like about Oman…The serenity; the political neutrality; the openness; the open spaces and order; and the relatively untouched beauty of the landscape and the people.A book that changed me... Many, at different points in time, age and place.On top of my wish/bucket list is... Spend time as a field service volunteer.My success mantra is... Dream Big! Focus on the next step. And just get moving. In 10 years’ time, I hope to be... Completely detached from existential chaos and be fully involved with society
FACES May 201818
Crafted to channelise the business zeal of aspiring entrepreneurs, Boutique Muscat’s (BM) ‘Take a Leap’ project, does exactly what it promises: propels one to take a leap; a leap towards success with the backing of trained professionals. “It is a platform to support designs
and brand owners become professional retail entrepreneurs. It is a supportive community where you can learn about retail through selling your product from Day 1,” explains Hazar Al Zadjali, co-founder of Boutique Muscat and Take a Leap project.
‘Take a Leap’Boutique Muscat’s ‘Take a Leap’ project is a perfect platform for aspiring
entrepreneurs to leverage their products and discover new growth channels
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
FACES May 201818 19May 2018 FACES
This retail entrepreneurship platform, a brainchild of Hazar and her sister Hanadi Al Zadjali, is open for anyone who has a product that fits in with BM’s operations in the areas of fashion, accessories, lifestyle and beauty. All that one needs to do is fill the application form that is available on a link in Boutique Muscat’s Instagram bio (@boutiquemuscat).
The main criterion, as Hazar notes, is that the brand owner is driven to create a strong brand presence and is willing to go that extra mile to succeed in retail. The selected brands are provided an avenue to showcase their products at BM. With many a young Omani demonstrating a passion for entrepreneurship, applicants under the ‘Take a Leap’ platform are assessed on the basis of their creativity and drive to excel and sustainability measures adopted to realise the goals.
Quality of the product, price and suitability in relation to BM’s profile are also considered while selecting applicants from the hundreds of requests the team receives. This January alone the team received over 300 applicants, of which 30 were chosen to be a part of the project. According to statistics, only 10 percent of the start-ups succeed and the objective of ‘Take a Leap’ is to make their applicants a part of that 10 percent.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
As the BM’s profile story states: “We have come a long way since we launched BM in 2008 - through trial and error, and a lot of financial mistakes and risks we reached where we are today. That is why, we would like to share our experience, not only verbally, but through real experience where you get to test the market, learn your customers needs, understand the local scene when it comes to local brands and retail, doing it all with no risk at one of the most prominent locations in Muscat.”Selected candidates are offered coaching and guidance in marketing, branding, pricing strategy and customer service. The objective is to build a brand and leverage it as a promising entity in the market.
This will entail marketing the brand at established retail locations in the capital, utilising Boutique Muscat’s channels to do the same, with a priority to showcase them on its e-commerce website.
Since it was launched in 2010, the Take a Leap platform has housed several local and regional designers and entrepreneurs. It has introduced, and continues to introduce, a variety of new brands, which are either upcoming local and regional designers or established brands with international presence. BM has recently opened an outlet at Al Mouj Muscat, becoming the first Omani
fashion and lifestyle brand to open in one of Majid Al Futtaim’s projects. It is now also present in Jabal Al Akhdar’s Anantara Hotel, as well as House of Fraser in Abu Dhabi and Ush in Dubai. Work is on to establish an outlet in Salalah.
Hazar Al Zadjali
19May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201818
Crafted to channelise the business zeal of aspiring entrepreneurs, Boutique Muscat’s (BM) ‘Take a Leap’ project, does exactly what it promises: propels one to take a leap; a leap towards success with the backing of trained professionals. “It is a platform to support designs
and brand owners become professional retail entrepreneurs. It is a supportive community where you can learn about retail through selling your product from Day 1,” explains Hazar Al Zadjali, co-founder of Boutique Muscat and Take a Leap project.
‘Take a Leap’Boutique Muscat’s ‘Take a Leap’ project is a perfect platform for aspiring
entrepreneurs to leverage their products and discover new growth channels
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
FACES May 201818 19May 2018 FACES
This retail entrepreneurship platform, a brainchild of Hazar and her sister Hanadi Al Zadjali, is open for anyone who has a product that fits in with BM’s operations in the areas of fashion, accessories, lifestyle and beauty. All that one needs to do is fill the application form that is available on a link in Boutique Muscat’s Instagram bio (@boutiquemuscat).
The main criterion, as Hazar notes, is that the brand owner is driven to create a strong brand presence and is willing to go that extra mile to succeed in retail. The selected brands are provided an avenue to showcase their products at BM. With many a young Omani demonstrating a passion for entrepreneurship, applicants under the ‘Take a Leap’ platform are assessed on the basis of their creativity and drive to excel and sustainability measures adopted to realise the goals.
Quality of the product, price and suitability in relation to BM’s profile are also considered while selecting applicants from the hundreds of requests the team receives. This January alone the team received over 300 applicants, of which 30 were chosen to be a part of the project. According to statistics, only 10 percent of the start-ups succeed and the objective of ‘Take a Leap’ is to make their applicants a part of that 10 percent.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
As the BM’s profile story states: “We have come a long way since we launched BM in 2008 - through trial and error, and a lot of financial mistakes and risks we reached where we are today. That is why, we would like to share our experience, not only verbally, but through real experience where you get to test the market, learn your customers needs, understand the local scene when it comes to local brands and retail, doing it all with no risk at one of the most prominent locations in Muscat.”Selected candidates are offered coaching and guidance in marketing, branding, pricing strategy and customer service. The objective is to build a brand and leverage it as a promising entity in the market.
This will entail marketing the brand at established retail locations in the capital, utilising Boutique Muscat’s channels to do the same, with a priority to showcase them on its e-commerce website.
Since it was launched in 2010, the Take a Leap platform has housed several local and regional designers and entrepreneurs. It has introduced, and continues to introduce, a variety of new brands, which are either upcoming local and regional designers or established brands with international presence. BM has recently opened an outlet at Al Mouj Muscat, becoming the first Omani
fashion and lifestyle brand to open in one of Majid Al Futtaim’s projects. It is now also present in Jabal Al Akhdar’s Anantara Hotel, as well as House of Fraser in Abu Dhabi and Ush in Dubai. Work is on to establish an outlet in Salalah.
Hazar Al Zadjali
19May 2018 FACES
FACES May l 201820
A quick roundup of Iftar offers and facilitiesin and around the capital this Holy Month of Ramadan
Grand Hyatt MuscatGrand Hyatt Muscat is geared to offer patrons a magical experience, presenting a delectable array of traditional Ramadan favourites in a grand setting with a variety of Iftar options. Iftar at Mokha Café will feature a lavish open buffet. Guests will experience a delectable oriental – Arabic buffet, including juices and laban, throughout the Holy month of Ramadan. Hotel guests can enjoy Hyatt’s Iftar or Suhoor set menu from the comfort of their room. Hyatt’s Afrah Ballroom will be open for corporate Iftar gatherings and the Hotel’s events team will be on hand to ensure impeccable service, paired with flexible facilities to suit the requirements.
GrandIftar Spread
SPECIAL
Grand Millennium HotelCelebrate the spirit of Ramadan with a Grand Iftar Buffet at Crystal Ballroom, which will feature an array of authentic Middle Eastern delicacies and traditional Ramadan favourites. Accommodating up to 800 guests, Crystal Ballroom is the ideal venue for corporate or group Iftars. Guests could also experience the essence of Ramadan at Taybat restaurant and sample a sumptuous selection of Ramadan delights, highlighting an endless Iftar buffet, with a live barbecue station.
21May 2018 FACES
SPECIAL
Hormuz Grand MuscatHormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel is welcoming Ramadan with an array of Iftar offerings during the Holy Month. All the four venues of the Hotel will come to life during the season. Straits, all day dining restaurant, will transform into an Arabian retreat, showcasing the warmth and hospitality of Arabian tradition. The chefs will bring out the authentic flavours of traditional and international dishes at the buffet, which will offer a wide selection of hot and cold mezzeh, salads, traditional and international main courses and live stations, local shuwa, desserts and special Ramadan beverages. Qureshi-Bab-Al-Hind will be the perfect spot to indulge in a royal feast, with the Iftar buffet featuring scrumptious dishes and unlimited Ramadan juices. OMNY Brasserie will offer food lovers a culinary journey, introducing grill platters and live cooking stations with an appetising mix of flavours and locally sourced ingredients in traditional Arabic dishes. The Hotel will also open avenues for corporate or private groups to book their own Iftar parties. A wide variety of salads, desserts, Ramadan drinks and live cooking stations are just a few of the choices that will be made available.
InterContinental MuscatJoin the InterContinental Hotel Muscat this Ramadan to enjoy their extensive Iftar offering, with a wide variety of Arabic cuisine including kunafa, shawarma, and saj bread stations; barbeque and live cooking stations; a selection of Ramadan juices and other international dishes. Be a part of the weekly raffle draw and get a chance to win exciting prizes, including weekend stays and a grand prize of trip to Dubai for the family.
Park Inn by Radisson MuscatPark Inn by Radisson Muscat will present a lavish spread of oriental delicacies at the Palm Restaurant, starting 25th May. Guests could also book a private Iftar at the Sama Terrazza rooftop lounge or in the meeting rooms.
At Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm, guests could treat family, friends and colleagues to a mouth-watering spread of oriental delicacies at the daily buffet in the Ocean Restaurant.
FACES May l 201820
A quick roundup of Iftar offers and facilitiesin and around the capital this Holy Month of Ramadan
Grand Hyatt MuscatGrand Hyatt Muscat is geared to offer patrons a magical experience, presenting a delectable array of traditional Ramadan favourites in a grand setting with a variety of Iftar options. Iftar at Mokha Café will feature a lavish open buffet. Guests will experience a delectable oriental – Arabic buffet, including juices and laban, throughout the Holy month of Ramadan. Hotel guests can enjoy Hyatt’s Iftar or Suhoor set menu from the comfort of their room. Hyatt’s Afrah Ballroom will be open for corporate Iftar gatherings and the Hotel’s events team will be on hand to ensure impeccable service, paired with flexible facilities to suit the requirements.
GrandIftar Spread
SPECIAL
Grand Millennium HotelCelebrate the spirit of Ramadan with a Grand Iftar Buffet at Crystal Ballroom, which will feature an array of authentic Middle Eastern delicacies and traditional Ramadan favourites. Accommodating up to 800 guests, Crystal Ballroom is the ideal venue for corporate or group Iftars. Guests could also experience the essence of Ramadan at Taybat restaurant and sample a sumptuous selection of Ramadan delights, highlighting an endless Iftar buffet, with a live barbecue station.
21May 2018 FACES
SPECIAL
Hormuz Grand MuscatHormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel is welcoming Ramadan with an array of Iftar offerings during the Holy Month. All the four venues of the Hotel will come to life during the season. Straits, all day dining restaurant, will transform into an Arabian retreat, showcasing the warmth and hospitality of Arabian tradition. The chefs will bring out the authentic flavours of traditional and international dishes at the buffet, which will offer a wide selection of hot and cold mezzeh, salads, traditional and international main courses and live stations, local shuwa, desserts and special Ramadan beverages. Qureshi-Bab-Al-Hind will be the perfect spot to indulge in a royal feast, with the Iftar buffet featuring scrumptious dishes and unlimited Ramadan juices. OMNY Brasserie will offer food lovers a culinary journey, introducing grill platters and live cooking stations with an appetising mix of flavours and locally sourced ingredients in traditional Arabic dishes. The Hotel will also open avenues for corporate or private groups to book their own Iftar parties. A wide variety of salads, desserts, Ramadan drinks and live cooking stations are just a few of the choices that will be made available.
InterContinental MuscatJoin the InterContinental Hotel Muscat this Ramadan to enjoy their extensive Iftar offering, with a wide variety of Arabic cuisine including kunafa, shawarma, and saj bread stations; barbeque and live cooking stations; a selection of Ramadan juices and other international dishes. Be a part of the weekly raffle draw and get a chance to win exciting prizes, including weekend stays and a grand prize of trip to Dubai for the family.
Park Inn by Radisson MuscatPark Inn by Radisson Muscat will present a lavish spread of oriental delicacies at the Palm Restaurant, starting 25th May. Guests could also book a private Iftar at the Sama Terrazza rooftop lounge or in the meeting rooms.
At Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm, guests could treat family, friends and colleagues to a mouth-watering spread of oriental delicacies at the daily buffet in the Ocean Restaurant.
FACES May l 201822
SPECIAL
Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) is hosting its popular Layali Ramadan - a warm and welcoming place for corporations, families, children, sports enthusiasts, shoppers and friends gathering to rejoice during the holy month of Ramadan. Guests could book their corporate Iftar at Layali Ramadan with dedicated private spaces from 20 to 1,000 guests. Facilities include five-star catering by InterContinental Muscat, a complimentary microphone and screen for each corporate event.
OCEC also features ‘Food
Al Mouj Muscat Chez Sushi: The holy month of Ramadan is a special time for the Al Mouj community. To make the season memorable, Chez Sushi has two Iftar Special offers: Chicken Katsu Iftar Bento featuring Miso soup, grilled or fried chicken, mixed greens, steamed rice, cucumber pickles and dates Mochi; and the option 2 including a choice of appetizer, choice of beef, salmon, chicken, prawn tempura or vegetable noodles and date Mochi.
The Wellness Centre: Special Ramadan offers from The Wellness Centre are convenient and easy for those seeking short term options. The offers are one week with gym access; 2 months with full access to all facilities, classes and booking app; and 12 months plus1 month free with three guest passes and one free whole body Cryotherapy.
Angelina Paris: The set Ramadan menu offer from Angelina Paris includes dried fruits, choice of soup, sharing starter platter, main dishes with a choice of beef filet or roasted chicken, Ramadan pastries and juices.
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & SpaIftar at Al Tanoor: Offering the best of traditional Ramadan delicacies inspired by local and international cuisines, Al Tanoor welcomes guests daily for an unforgettable Iftar. The extensive buffet spread showcases hot and cold mezzeh, salads, mixed grills, Omani specialties and classic desserts along with traditional Ramadan beverages, including kamar al din, karkadeh tea and jelab.
Suhoor at Layali Ramadan Tent: Savour the full Ramadan experience with Suhour in the Layali Ramadan tent located at Al Bandar hotel. The Layali Ramadan tent presents à la carte selection of Omani delights, traditional Ramadan beverages and captivating sounds of Arabic oud players, while showcasing the beauty of Omani interior décor.
Layali’, a celebration of Ramadan nights, where the Centre will transform into a vibrant food festival. From sweets to savoury treats, visitors will have the opportunity to come, taste and enjoy a wide variety of eats brought by some of the top Muscat restaurants - all in one place.
On the night before the 15th day of Ramadan, OCEC will celebrate Qaranqasho with many activities for children. This
celebration started as a way to reward children for successfully fasting for the first half of the month, and to encourage them to continue through the second half. It continues to be a beloved tradition throughout the region.
FACES May l 201822
SPECIAL
Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) is hosting its popular Layali Ramadan - a warm and welcoming place for corporations, families, children, sports enthusiasts, shoppers and friends gathering to rejoice during the holy month of Ramadan. Guests could book their corporate Iftar at Layali Ramadan with dedicated private spaces from 20 to 1,000 guests. Facilities include five-star catering by InterContinental Muscat, a complimentary microphone and screen for each corporate event.
OCEC also features ‘Food
Al Mouj Muscat Chez Sushi: The holy month of Ramadan is a special time for the Al Mouj community. To make the season memorable, Chez Sushi has two Iftar Special offers: Chicken Katsu Iftar Bento featuring Miso soup, grilled or fried chicken, mixed greens, steamed rice, cucumber pickles and dates Mochi; and the option 2 including a choice of appetizer, choice of beef, salmon, chicken, prawn tempura or vegetable noodles and date Mochi.
The Wellness Centre: Special Ramadan offers from The Wellness Centre are convenient and easy for those seeking short term options. The offers are one week with gym access; 2 months with full access to all facilities, classes and booking app; and 12 months plus1 month free with three guest passes and one free whole body Cryotherapy.
Angelina Paris: The set Ramadan menu offer from Angelina Paris includes dried fruits, choice of soup, sharing starter platter, main dishes with a choice of beef filet or roasted chicken, Ramadan pastries and juices.
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & SpaIftar at Al Tanoor: Offering the best of traditional Ramadan delicacies inspired by local and international cuisines, Al Tanoor welcomes guests daily for an unforgettable Iftar. The extensive buffet spread showcases hot and cold mezzeh, salads, mixed grills, Omani specialties and classic desserts along with traditional Ramadan beverages, including kamar al din, karkadeh tea and jelab.
Suhoor at Layali Ramadan Tent: Savour the full Ramadan experience with Suhour in the Layali Ramadan tent located at Al Bandar hotel. The Layali Ramadan tent presents à la carte selection of Omani delights, traditional Ramadan beverages and captivating sounds of Arabic oud players, while showcasing the beauty of Omani interior décor.
Layali’, a celebration of Ramadan nights, where the Centre will transform into a vibrant food festival. From sweets to savoury treats, visitors will have the opportunity to come, taste and enjoy a wide variety of eats brought by some of the top Muscat restaurants - all in one place.
On the night before the 15th day of Ramadan, OCEC will celebrate Qaranqasho with many activities for children. This
celebration started as a way to reward children for successfully fasting for the first half of the month, and to encourage them to continue through the second half. It continues to be a beloved tradition throughout the region.
23May 2018 FACES
SPECIAL
Sheraton Oman The Sheraton Oman Hotel welcomes Ramadan 2018 with an array of Iftar and Suhoor offerings, all throughout the holy month. The Hotel invites guests to share the ceremonial breaking of the fast with loved ones in the relaxed, family-friendly setting of Courtyard. From sunset, guests may enjoy a myriad of Middle Eastern specialties and beverages, including live cooking stations, traditional hot and cold Mezze, slow roasted lamb Ouzi with oriental rice, Saudi kabsa, laban immo, Kadinbudu kofte and a delightful variety of Arabic sweets and desserts. Iftar is served at sunset - Maghrib prayer time onwards (6.30pm to 9pm).
The Courtyard also offers a delicious Suhoor menu (11pm to 2am) that will be served under the glass-veiled open skies at the Courtyard terrace every night, during the holy month. Serving an irresistible variety of cuisines, authentic Arabic treats including fresh juices and beverages, an A La Carte menu will be served. Diners can enjoy the ambience with shisha on the terrace over a game of cards or board games, while the Oud player sets the ambiance to the Ramadan gathering through traditional melodies.
Fastingand its
benefits
Ramadan is a month in which Muslims all over the world undergo a daily fast - one in which food, drink, and smoking are all forbidden between sunrise and sunset. However, many non-Muslims are learning of the physical benefits to be attained through the struggles of hunger.
Founder of the Chiron Clinic, Dr. Lanalle Dunn said that many of her non-Muslim clients were undertaking the popular 5:2 diet around the time of Ramadan. “The premise of the diet is five days of the week you eat as you normally would, no restrictions on food, drink, anything. But then on two days of your choice in the week, you consume just 500-600 calories in 24 hours,” she said.
Fill up on Protein and VegetablesMake sure that you are eating high-quality meat and vegetables on your fasting days. This will help you stay fuller for longer and you can eat a lot of filling vegetables for very few calories. I advise my clients to stick to oily fish, prawns, chicken, turkey, pork, beef, and eggs.
Eat Mediterranean Stick to a low-carbohydrate Mediterranean-style diet, both on the days when you are fasting and when you are not. That means more olive oil and nuts, as well as plenty of eggs, yogurt, oily fish, and vegetables.
Did you know about the surprising benefits of fasting, asks Dr. Lanalle Dunn of Chiron Clinic, Dubai, as she throws the spotlight on the 5:2 diet
Drink Plenty of WaterIt is important that you drink plenty of fluids (although not allowed during Ramadan for fasting Muslims), the 5:2 diet allows for drinking water. Stick to two litres or eight cups a day, also remember that tea and coffee count (minus the milk and sugar).
Throw all the Junk Food out of the HouseMake sure you get rid of any temptation; it means you are far less likely to cheat on fast days and you are less likely to indulge in other days. Instead, make sure you have healthy snacks that are already prepared that
Dr. Lanalle gives her top tips on how to benefit from the 5:2 diet:you can snack on if you are hungry. Celery and carrot sticks with hummus are one of my personal favorites.
Regular Exercise It is important that you are still exercising wwhileill undertaking the diet if you want to keep the weight off. I would recommend doing muscle building exercises such as press-ups and squats, as well as aerobic exercises such as walking and cycling.
23May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201824
A refined palate for Chinese delights with a twist of Indian fusion, a voracious appetite to enjoy a medley of dishes and a temperament to give every bite its due appreciation in an unhurried ambience… Dining essentials to do justice to the profusion of flavours that Shanghai Kitchen promises.
The restaurant, which opened its doors in February in the busy Azaiba district, has, in a very short time, established its presence in the ever-growing food horizon of the capital. A part of the Royal Group of Restaurants, which operates food chains like Vasanta Bhavan and Mumbai Chennai Express, it has endeared itself to foodies in the capital who have honed their palates to all things Chinese in the culinary department. If weekday lunch guests are an indication of a
restaurant’s popularity, Shanghai Kitchen’s packed floor proves it loud and clear. It has earned it hands down with its gastronomic masterpieces.
Located near Al Nahda Tower, alongside the service road in Azaiba’s throbbing environ, Shanghai Kitchen has its territory marked in a stand-alone structure that is difficult to miss. It has found its niche among the dozens of other restaurants in the area (and elsewhere in Muscat) with its fine-tuned menu that has just the right ingredients to attract repeat guests, weekends or weekdays.
Shanghai Kitchen,the new culinary attraction in Azaiba,
is a food theatre, raising curtains to some of the most exotic Chinese fusion dishes in the city
Shanghai Kitchen FEAST ON
Crispy Corn Chilli Pepper Prawn Rolls
25May 2018 FACES
Shanghai Kitchen FEAST ON
We, as usual, picked an uneventful weekday to visit the restaurant, but the experience was anything but humdrum. Nothing prepared us for the vibrancy within the restaurant. It was still early noon when we walked in and were pleasantly surprised to see the restaurant alive with most seats occupied by guests…as if it was a holiday season and diners were indulging in a laidback leisurely lunch.
That was a cue for us to look forward to a long, seemingly endless, lunch, thanks to our generous host Swapan Kumar Dutta, General Manager of Royal Group of Restaurants. Adorned in subtle Chinese décor, bathed in subdued lighting and enveloped in soothing music, the restaurant invites one to indulge the palate and the rest of the senses to an epicurean experience. The confluence of dishes and tastes are seamlessly fused with touches of Indian food, whether it is in the spice or the flavours. And with an array of sauces, including the popular white garlic sauce and orange peel sauce, diners are spoiled for choice, not only with the dishes, but also the accoutrements of dips, relishes and sauces.
As we sat down for our lunch, we were served complimentary kimchi salad and Chinese tea, which we were told helps in cleansing the palate to
enjoy the different flavours of dishes brought to the table. The mocktails on our agenda included a fruit punch, Hanoi Fling (pineapple and mango juice with rose essence), Cucumber Cooler and Paradise Passion.
The first of the starters to make to our table was the out-of-this-world dish called ‘Crackling Spinach’. This is a novelty to any palate, with crispy fried shredded spinach taking the taste to another level. Served on an edible basket, it is flavoured with chopped chillies, sesame seeds and topped with almonds. It was accompanied by another, equally scrumptious item called Crispy Corn Chilli Pepper (corn niblets tossed with chopped chillies, onion, garlic and vinegar).
On our dimsum counter were Prawns Hargao (stuffed with minced prawns and chestnuts) and Vegetable Dumplings, served with black pepper and green chilli sauce, followed by Prawn Rolls (golden fried rolls with minced prawns), Vegetable Spring Rolls (stir-fried vegetables) and Crispy Vegetable Chilli in Plum Sauce (fried slices of mixed vegetables with chopped chillies and plum sauce). While vegetarians will certainly relish this dish, it is, easily, one of the most palatable vegetarian items even for fastidious non-vegetarians. The other,
not-to-be-missed dish is the Devil’s Chicken, which features deep fried chicken, tossed with fresh chilli sauce, along with onion and bell pepper.
There was more on our starter platter: Chicken with Pepper and Ginger, Drums of Heaven Shangdong Style (crispy fried chicken winglets), Hunan Style Prawns, Prawns Tempura, Dynamite Prawns, Yueyang Barbequed Fish (deep fried slices of fish), Whole Crab Pepper Garlic Dry, Braised Lobster Sichuan Chilli Dry and Lamb Chilli. For seafood lovers, the sight of lobster on a large platter is a visual delight. And the taste: a treat for the palate, like everything else about Shanghai Kitchen.
The mains featured Tsinghoi Chicken (diced chicken, onion and bell pepper in a tangy chilli sauce with fried cashew nuts), Mixed Fried Rice and Prawns with Seasonal Greens and Garlic.
And then the dessert! Even as our bursting bellies protested, we went ahead and devoured the Sizzling Brownie (chocolate brownie served with hot chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream) and Mango Pudding. The sizzling brownie is a winner – hands down.
Shanghai Kitchen is designed to craft every meal into a sensorial experience.
Mixed Fried Rice Mango Pudding
Sizzling Brownie
Drums of Heaven Shangdong Style
Devil’s Chicken
FACES May 201824
A refined palate for Chinese delights with a twist of Indian fusion, a voracious appetite to enjoy a medley of dishes and a temperament to give every bite its due appreciation in an unhurried ambience… Dining essentials to do justice to the profusion of flavours that Shanghai Kitchen promises.
The restaurant, which opened its doors in February in the busy Azaiba district, has, in a very short time, established its presence in the ever-growing food horizon of the capital. A part of the Royal Group of Restaurants, which operates food chains like Vasanta Bhavan and Mumbai Chennai Express, it has endeared itself to foodies in the capital who have honed their palates to all things Chinese in the culinary department. If weekday lunch guests are an indication of a
restaurant’s popularity, Shanghai Kitchen’s packed floor proves it loud and clear. It has earned it hands down with its gastronomic masterpieces.
Located near Al Nahda Tower, alongside the service road in Azaiba’s throbbing environ, Shanghai Kitchen has its territory marked in a stand-alone structure that is difficult to miss. It has found its niche among the dozens of other restaurants in the area (and elsewhere in Muscat) with its fine-tuned menu that has just the right ingredients to attract repeat guests, weekends or weekdays.
Shanghai Kitchen,the new culinary attraction in Azaiba,
is a food theatre, raising curtains to some of the most exotic Chinese fusion dishes in the city
Shanghai Kitchen FEAST ON
Crispy Corn Chilli Pepper Prawn Rolls
25May 2018 FACES
Shanghai Kitchen FEAST ON
We, as usual, picked an uneventful weekday to visit the restaurant, but the experience was anything but humdrum. Nothing prepared us for the vibrancy within the restaurant. It was still early noon when we walked in and were pleasantly surprised to see the restaurant alive with most seats occupied by guests…as if it was a holiday season and diners were indulging in a laidback leisurely lunch.
That was a cue for us to look forward to a long, seemingly endless, lunch, thanks to our generous host Swapan Kumar Dutta, General Manager of Royal Group of Restaurants. Adorned in subtle Chinese décor, bathed in subdued lighting and enveloped in soothing music, the restaurant invites one to indulge the palate and the rest of the senses to an epicurean experience. The confluence of dishes and tastes are seamlessly fused with touches of Indian food, whether it is in the spice or the flavours. And with an array of sauces, including the popular white garlic sauce and orange peel sauce, diners are spoiled for choice, not only with the dishes, but also the accoutrements of dips, relishes and sauces.
As we sat down for our lunch, we were served complimentary kimchi salad and Chinese tea, which we were told helps in cleansing the palate to
enjoy the different flavours of dishes brought to the table. The mocktails on our agenda included a fruit punch, Hanoi Fling (pineapple and mango juice with rose essence), Cucumber Cooler and Paradise Passion.
The first of the starters to make to our table was the out-of-this-world dish called ‘Crackling Spinach’. This is a novelty to any palate, with crispy fried shredded spinach taking the taste to another level. Served on an edible basket, it is flavoured with chopped chillies, sesame seeds and topped with almonds. It was accompanied by another, equally scrumptious item called Crispy Corn Chilli Pepper (corn niblets tossed with chopped chillies, onion, garlic and vinegar).
On our dimsum counter were Prawns Hargao (stuffed with minced prawns and chestnuts) and Vegetable Dumplings, served with black pepper and green chilli sauce, followed by Prawn Rolls (golden fried rolls with minced prawns), Vegetable Spring Rolls (stir-fried vegetables) and Crispy Vegetable Chilli in Plum Sauce (fried slices of mixed vegetables with chopped chillies and plum sauce). While vegetarians will certainly relish this dish, it is, easily, one of the most palatable vegetarian items even for fastidious non-vegetarians. The other,
not-to-be-missed dish is the Devil’s Chicken, which features deep fried chicken, tossed with fresh chilli sauce, along with onion and bell pepper.
There was more on our starter platter: Chicken with Pepper and Ginger, Drums of Heaven Shangdong Style (crispy fried chicken winglets), Hunan Style Prawns, Prawns Tempura, Dynamite Prawns, Yueyang Barbequed Fish (deep fried slices of fish), Whole Crab Pepper Garlic Dry, Braised Lobster Sichuan Chilli Dry and Lamb Chilli. For seafood lovers, the sight of lobster on a large platter is a visual delight. And the taste: a treat for the palate, like everything else about Shanghai Kitchen.
The mains featured Tsinghoi Chicken (diced chicken, onion and bell pepper in a tangy chilli sauce with fried cashew nuts), Mixed Fried Rice and Prawns with Seasonal Greens and Garlic.
And then the dessert! Even as our bursting bellies protested, we went ahead and devoured the Sizzling Brownie (chocolate brownie served with hot chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream) and Mango Pudding. The sizzling brownie is a winner – hands down.
Shanghai Kitchen is designed to craft every meal into a sensorial experience.
Mixed Fried Rice Mango Pudding
Sizzling Brownie
Drums of Heaven Shangdong Style
Devil’s Chicken
FACES May 201826
Make Ramadan special with recipes* that will help you perfect your Baba Ghanoush, Muhammara and Lahem Bil Ajeen
Ramadan Recipes
LET›S COOK
Baba GhanoushIngredients (serves 4):• 500gms grilled eggplant • 40gms tomato• 40gms red onion • 40gms bell pepper • 2tsp garlic minced • 2tbsp parsley & mint • 20 ml lemon juice• 10gms pomegranate seeds• 20ml pomegranate molasses• olive oil• Salt
Method:1. Roast the eggplant in a pan until it is soft.2. Remove the skin from the eggplant and chop it finely.3. Chop tomato, red onion, bell pepper, garlic, mint and parsley.4. Mix it with the eggplant.5. Season with lemon juice and salt.6. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, mint leaf and pomegranate molasses. Top it with olive oil (optional).7. Serve cold as shown in the picture.
MuhammaraIngredients (serves 4):• 100gms tomato • 100gms onion • 25gms garlic • 10gms cumin powder • 100gms red bell pepper • 2tsp chili paste • 100gms bread crumbs • 100gms crushed nuts • 2tbsp tomato paste • 200ml olive oil • 40ml pomegranate molasses • Berries (for garnish) • Lavash bread (for garnish)
Method:1. Roast bell peppers, onion, garlic, fresh tomato.2. Add tomato paste, cumin powder and chili paste.3. Mix the rest of the ingredients in a blender.4. Once the mixture is ready add breadcrumbs, pomegranate molasses & olive oil.5. At the end, add berries and lavash bread as decoration
Ingredients (serves 4):l 400gms minced lamb l 100gms onion l 40gms parsley l 10gms pine nuts l 4 cherry tomatoes l 20ml pomegranate molasses l 600gms flour l 10gms yeast l 100ml milk l 100ml water l Salt (to taste)l 10gms sugar
Method:1. For the dough, mix flour, yeast, water, milk, salt and sugar together and knead it, until it is combined.
2. Leave the dough to rest for 1 hour.3. Shape the dough as in the picture.4. Roast the minced lamb meat with onion, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts and parsley until it is cooked.5. Stuff the dough with the lamb mix.6. Bake the Lahem Bil Ajeen at 180 degrees for around 20 minutes in the oven.7. Garnish with cherry tomatoes
* Recipes and images shared by La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk, Dubai
Lahem Bil Ajeen (Pide)
FACES May 201826
FACES May 201826
Make Ramadan special with recipes* that will help you perfect your Baba Ghanoush, Muhammara and Lahem Bil Ajeen
Ramadan Recipes
LET›S COOK
Baba GhanoushIngredients (serves 4):• 500gms grilled eggplant • 40gms tomato• 40gms red onion • 40gms bell pepper • 2tsp garlic minced • 2tbsp parsley & mint • 20 ml lemon juice• 10gms pomegranate seeds• 20ml pomegranate molasses• olive oil• Salt
Method:1. Roast the eggplant in a pan until it is soft.2. Remove the skin from the eggplant and chop it finely.3. Chop tomato, red onion, bell pepper, garlic, mint and parsley.4. Mix it with the eggplant.5. Season with lemon juice and salt.6. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, mint leaf and pomegranate molasses. Top it with olive oil (optional).7. Serve cold as shown in the picture.
MuhammaraIngredients (serves 4):• 100gms tomato • 100gms onion • 25gms garlic • 10gms cumin powder • 100gms red bell pepper • 2tsp chili paste • 100gms bread crumbs • 100gms crushed nuts • 2tbsp tomato paste • 200ml olive oil • 40ml pomegranate molasses • Berries (for garnish) • Lavash bread (for garnish)
Method:1. Roast bell peppers, onion, garlic, fresh tomato.2. Add tomato paste, cumin powder and chili paste.3. Mix the rest of the ingredients in a blender.4. Once the mixture is ready add breadcrumbs, pomegranate molasses & olive oil.5. At the end, add berries and lavash bread as decoration
Ingredients (serves 4):l 400gms minced lamb l 100gms onion l 40gms parsley l 10gms pine nuts l 4 cherry tomatoes l 20ml pomegranate molasses l 600gms flour l 10gms yeast l 100ml milk l 100ml water l Salt (to taste)l 10gms sugar
Method:1. For the dough, mix flour, yeast, water, milk, salt and sugar together and knead it, until it is combined.
2. Leave the dough to rest for 1 hour.3. Shape the dough as in the picture.4. Roast the minced lamb meat with onion, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts and parsley until it is cooked.5. Stuff the dough with the lamb mix.6. Bake the Lahem Bil Ajeen at 180 degrees for around 20 minutes in the oven.7. Garnish with cherry tomatoes
* Recipes and images shared by La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk, Dubai
Lahem Bil Ajeen (Pide)
FACES May 201826 27May 2018 FACES
LET›S COOK
If you are a seafood lover, these two scrumptious starters from Simran Dhanju will work up your appetite in no time
Simran is a celebrated chef and a winner of multi cooking competitions; she creates visual delights artfully by merging traditional flavours.
Fish AmritsariIngredients:
l 500gms fish fillets (White Sole, Pomfet) l 1tsp ginger paste l 1tsp garlic paste l 2tbsp lemon juice l ½tsp red chilli Powder l ½tsp garam masala (blend of ground spices) l salt (to taste)l 1/8tsp red food colouring (optional) l 2tbsp besan (gram flour) l 1tsp carom seeds (ajwain) l 1tbsp yoghurt l 1 cup oil (for deep frying) l 1tsp chaat masala (spice blend) l Lemon Wedges (for garnishing)
Method:1. Wash fish fillets, pat dry. Cut into 1 ½ inch medium sized pieces.2. Marinate fish pieces with salt and lemon juice. Mix and keep aside for 30 minutes.3. In a separate bowl, take besan, add ginger and garlic paste, red chilli powder, garam masala, carom seeds, yoghurt, food colouring, and little salt; combine well to make paste. Add marinated fish pieces and mix gently to coat well.4. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry fish in small batches; drain on absorbent paper.5. Sprinkle chaat masala and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
For the love of FISH
Coconut Crusted Fish Fingers with Tartare Sauce Ingredients:l 600g white fish or Nile Perchl 1tsp garlic powderl 1tbsp lemon juicel 1tsp saltl 1½ cup desiccated coconutl 1 cup panko l ½ cup plain flourl 2eggsl Oil for fryingl Salt and pepper
Tartare sauce:• ½ cup garlic mayonnaise • 1tsp lemon juice• 1tsp dill, chopped • 2tsp capers, chopped • Salt and pepper• 1tbsp water
Method:1. Wash, pat dry the fish and cut into 3” by 1” long fingers. Marinate with garlic powder, lemon and salt, keep aside for 10 minutes.2. Beat eggs lightly and season with a little salt and pepper. 3. Sift flour and season it with salt and pepper. 4. Combine coconut and panko in a bowl.
5. Now, take a fish finger, toss it in the flour, then dip in egg wash and roll into coconut-panko mix to coat well. Repeat with rest of the fingers.6. Heat oil in deep pan, and fry fish fingers on medium flame until golden brown.7. For tartare sauce, combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix.8. Serve hot fish fingers with tartare sauce.
FACES May 201828
Some lamps aren’t designed to illuminate your living space alone; they are crafted to become cynosure of all eyes, drawing connoisseurs of beauty to little details that have helped shape them into masterpieces
IN THE LUXE
Letthere beLIGHT
Pink Lotus Labelled as the most expensive lamp in the world, the Pink Lotus Tiffany Lamp is a work of art, with pulsating colours that resonate with beauty and charm. It is designed with 2,000 hand-crafted glass pieces, which are assembled masterfully to come together as a piece of stunning mastery. The lamp was created by Tiffany Studios in 1907.Price: $2.8 million
Tiffany Wisteria Another magnum opus from the Tiffany stables is this Wisteria Table Lamp. It is iconic in its presentation, capturing the wistful essence of wisteria - for the uninitiated, wisteria (as an online dictionary explains) is a climbing shrub of the pea family, with hanging clusters of fragrant flowers, typically pale bluish-lilac in colour. According to the makers, it was designed by Clara Driscoll in 1901.Price: $1,565,000
Salviati Chandelier Created by Italian designer Giulio Salviati, this chandelier has time trapped in its gold tinted frame. It is gothic in its appearance, yet totally in tune with the elegance and glamour of an
opulent royal era. The chandelier is believed to be a reflection of the tastes of Salviati, a glassmaker, who infused a gothic art form in the chandelier, which features rare Murano glass.Price: $1 million
FACES May 201828 29May 2018 FACES
IN THE SPOTLIGHTIN THE LUXETrumpet Creeper The story goes that Tiffany admired flowering vines, as a designer as well as a gardener. He loved the beautiful colours and striking shapes of the blossoms that grew blithely across boundaries. And so the assortment of Tiffany lamps - with creepers, wisteria, grapes, and the like - came about. The Tiffany Trumpet Creeper Table Lamp is comparatively modest in its presentation, but its colours grab the eyeball. It has a large tree base and is made with Tiffany’s patented Favrile glass.Price range: $400,000 to $600,000
Candle Chandelier Candle chandelier… Can anything be more evocative of the times gone by? The romance of antiques that hold history spellbound in its structure? Classical French Candle Chandelier, weighing a mammoth 275 kilograms, is one such. Said to be inspired by the monumental chandeliers of Versailles and Louis XV, this amazing piece of ceiling art features expertly cut glass and gilt bronze that is illuminated with 48 candles.Price: $740,000
Genoese CrystalAnother candle chandelier that reeks of history is the Genoese Crystal Chandelier that dates back to the late 18th century Genoese Empire. The crystal chandelier has a gilt-wood carved stem, which open to six curved candle arms that are draped with crystal beads and pendants. A dash of blue and green crystals, repoussé (metal work with patterns in relief made by hammering/pressing the reverse side) brass elements and clear crystal flowers, endow the chandelier with timeless elegance.Price: $677,203
Daum Chandelier This French work of art is a statement piece that stands 81.9 inches in height and 41.5 inches width. It is handmade and kiln fired for 10 days to turn it into a unique chandelier. It has a delicate look about it, made exquisite by the interlocking collection of 448 Daum crystal roses. What makes this chandelier truly special and luxurious is the fact that no two Daum crystals are alike. It is seen as the ultimate in luxury, with the brand boasting collaborations with some of the top artists of the times.Price: $680,000
Giltwood Torcheres The 18th Century Inspired Giltwood Torcheres can be traced back to Louis XV, who commissioned similar torcheres (tall ornamental flat-topped candlestick stand) in 1770 for a masked ball. Made from the finest carved gilt-wood and bronze, they stand tall at 10 feet. It has a concave sided base with three carved figurines supporting a central stem carved with a vase and floral gardens.Price: $400,000
29May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201828
Some lamps aren’t designed to illuminate your living space alone; they are crafted to become cynosure of all eyes, drawing connoisseurs of beauty to little details that have helped shape them into masterpieces
IN THE LUXE
Letthere beLIGHT
Pink Lotus Labelled as the most expensive lamp in the world, the Pink Lotus Tiffany Lamp is a work of art, with pulsating colours that resonate with beauty and charm. It is designed with 2,000 hand-crafted glass pieces, which are assembled masterfully to come together as a piece of stunning mastery. The lamp was created by Tiffany Studios in 1907.Price: $2.8 million
Tiffany Wisteria Another magnum opus from the Tiffany stables is this Wisteria Table Lamp. It is iconic in its presentation, capturing the wistful essence of wisteria - for the uninitiated, wisteria (as an online dictionary explains) is a climbing shrub of the pea family, with hanging clusters of fragrant flowers, typically pale bluish-lilac in colour. According to the makers, it was designed by Clara Driscoll in 1901.Price: $1,565,000
Salviati Chandelier Created by Italian designer Giulio Salviati, this chandelier has time trapped in its gold tinted frame. It is gothic in its appearance, yet totally in tune with the elegance and glamour of an
opulent royal era. The chandelier is believed to be a reflection of the tastes of Salviati, a glassmaker, who infused a gothic art form in the chandelier, which features rare Murano glass.Price: $1 million
FACES May 201828 29May 2018 FACES
IN THE SPOTLIGHTIN THE LUXETrumpet Creeper The story goes that Tiffany admired flowering vines, as a designer as well as a gardener. He loved the beautiful colours and striking shapes of the blossoms that grew blithely across boundaries. And so the assortment of Tiffany lamps - with creepers, wisteria, grapes, and the like - came about. The Tiffany Trumpet Creeper Table Lamp is comparatively modest in its presentation, but its colours grab the eyeball. It has a large tree base and is made with Tiffany’s patented Favrile glass.Price range: $400,000 to $600,000
Candle Chandelier Candle chandelier… Can anything be more evocative of the times gone by? The romance of antiques that hold history spellbound in its structure? Classical French Candle Chandelier, weighing a mammoth 275 kilograms, is one such. Said to be inspired by the monumental chandeliers of Versailles and Louis XV, this amazing piece of ceiling art features expertly cut glass and gilt bronze that is illuminated with 48 candles.Price: $740,000
Genoese CrystalAnother candle chandelier that reeks of history is the Genoese Crystal Chandelier that dates back to the late 18th century Genoese Empire. The crystal chandelier has a gilt-wood carved stem, which open to six curved candle arms that are draped with crystal beads and pendants. A dash of blue and green crystals, repoussé (metal work with patterns in relief made by hammering/pressing the reverse side) brass elements and clear crystal flowers, endow the chandelier with timeless elegance.Price: $677,203
Daum Chandelier This French work of art is a statement piece that stands 81.9 inches in height and 41.5 inches width. It is handmade and kiln fired for 10 days to turn it into a unique chandelier. It has a delicate look about it, made exquisite by the interlocking collection of 448 Daum crystal roses. What makes this chandelier truly special and luxurious is the fact that no two Daum crystals are alike. It is seen as the ultimate in luxury, with the brand boasting collaborations with some of the top artists of the times.Price: $680,000
Giltwood Torcheres The 18th Century Inspired Giltwood Torcheres can be traced back to Louis XV, who commissioned similar torcheres (tall ornamental flat-topped candlestick stand) in 1770 for a masked ball. Made from the finest carved gilt-wood and bronze, they stand tall at 10 feet. It has a concave sided base with three carved figurines supporting a central stem carved with a vase and floral gardens.Price: $400,000
29May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201830
If summer tends to turn that occasional bad hair day into a permanent fixture of the season, gear up to beat the
heat and the grime with some tender loving home care
LOOK GOOD
Summer Hair Care
Like your skin that needs to stay hydrated during the peak summer days, your hair does
too…perhaps, more. For, it is your scalp that first feels the pin pricks of direct heat – bald-pated ones taking the most brunt. While a scarf/cap does cut out the direct heat, there is no telling how summer heat can work its way around and deplete the resources that otherwise make your hair shine and bounce with verve and abandon. And, with summer set to stoke the temperature with each passing day, it is best to adopt caution and bring out your hair care armour to combat the burnout.
Here is a quick guide to help you sort your summer hair woes:
Hair maskHair masks can work wonders in nourishing your hair and helping it retain moisture and the natural shine of your hair. It works just like the face mask. It goes beyond the superficial precincts of the conditioner; it goes right inside the hair cuticle and helps repair the damage done to the hair and the scalp. While there are several readymade masks in the market to opt for, you also have the option of creating your own natural mask
– right in your kitchen. There are a variety of combinations and permutations to work on with fruits and vegetables that are easily available in the neighbourhood market. All that you need to do is find out which is ideal for your hair type – a little Google search, some tips from your hair salon, would help you get there.
Shampoo & conditionerIf you have naturally oily hair, summer will take it to a hyper mode. Of course, shampoo you must, to remove the excess oil; but you could reduce the oil secretion by
31May 2018 FACES
LIFESTYLE MANTRA
HIGHLIGHTS ARE SPECIAL; THEY LIGHTEN UP THE PERSONALITY, GIVING IT HINTS OF VIVACITY AND A TOUCH OF GLAMOUR
If you subscribe to the ‘new season new look’ rule, go ahead; give your hair some highlights to start summer on a perfectly cheery note. Get creative; be adventurous, even wild, if you have the gumption, to pick on a colour that you want to see on your hair. A little head start on the trends and styles for the season would propel you in the right direction. Add to that notes about your natural hair colour, the texture and length of hair. Experts also point out the importance of balancing the colour you choose with your skin tone to ensure you don’t look like an alien who was dipped in a paint jar.
Like most women in this part of the world, if you are endowed with natural black hair and are looking for a dramatic hair colour, you would need a professional colourist to get your hair changed to the desired colour, as darker hair colours do not easily accept newer shades. Red is one colour to consider if you are dark haired. Red highlights can make your dark tresses stand out in a blaze. However, when choosing your hue of red, it would help to check if the shade would complement your skin tone. While fair skin can carry off a bright orange-red colour, or reddish-brown shade, medium skin tones can easily rock copper and golden reds; blue-red tones are suggested for those with dark skin tones.
But, if you are willing to experiment and go all the way, checkout platinum highlights, which would perfectly
contrast with your black hair. Navy highlight is chic and
savvy and so is chocolate brown.
Go on; get your highlight...
considering a switch from your regular shampoo and conditioner… However, if you have dry hair, summer is not the time to frequently shower. You could use moisturising formulas and hair serum, to start with. Opt for a gentle cleanser that does not potentially dry your hair. Give your hair some tender care to ensure that you do not lose more strands this season. Besides, with showers naturally dispensing warm to hot water during this season, owing to the heat the overhead tanks have to endure, you could keep your buckets filled with water overnight for a cool bath in the morning or evening. Also, summer demands a rinse-out conditioner to keep your hair smooth and stress free. An SPF shampoo, followed by an oil-based conditioner, could do wonders to your summer hair.
Style naturallyHair straighteners and other heat products tend to dry your hair; with summer already doing the drying job, it is best to avoid any styling products during the hot days of summer. Instead, learn some natural styling techniques that can give you the look you desire without using straighteners or hot curlers. Keep your hair wrapped in a towel for about 15 minutes after shower and then use a wide toothed comb to untangle the hair. If you have wavy hair, you could untangle it with your fingers; you could even curl the hair into ringlets using your finger. A leave-in conditioner could perfect the look and give the curls the moisture it requires.
Another old school practice to use to style your hair naturally this season is with bobby pins. First, separate your hair into two sections and start clipping the smaller sections back with bobby pins to make them look flat on your head. Pin the hair in circles around the head and leave it on overnight or until the moist hair is fully dry. Remove the pins in the morning or when it is dry and voila, you have straight, silky hair. For wavy hair, all that you need to do is braid the hair in two sections and sleep on it to style your hair in natural waves the next day.Have great hair this summer!
THEHIGHLIGHTS IN YOUR HAIR…By Sophia Raman
FACES May 201830
If summer tends to turn that occasional bad hair day into a permanent fixture of the season, gear up to beat the
heat and the grime with some tender loving home care
LOOK GOOD
Summer Hair Care
Like your skin that needs to stay hydrated during the peak summer days, your hair does
too…perhaps, more. For, it is your scalp that first feels the pin pricks of direct heat – bald-pated ones taking the most brunt. While a scarf/cap does cut out the direct heat, there is no telling how summer heat can work its way around and deplete the resources that otherwise make your hair shine and bounce with verve and abandon. And, with summer set to stoke the temperature with each passing day, it is best to adopt caution and bring out your hair care armour to combat the burnout.
Here is a quick guide to help you sort your summer hair woes:
Hair maskHair masks can work wonders in nourishing your hair and helping it retain moisture and the natural shine of your hair. It works just like the face mask. It goes beyond the superficial precincts of the conditioner; it goes right inside the hair cuticle and helps repair the damage done to the hair and the scalp. While there are several readymade masks in the market to opt for, you also have the option of creating your own natural mask
– right in your kitchen. There are a variety of combinations and permutations to work on with fruits and vegetables that are easily available in the neighbourhood market. All that you need to do is find out which is ideal for your hair type – a little Google search, some tips from your hair salon, would help you get there.
Shampoo & conditionerIf you have naturally oily hair, summer will take it to a hyper mode. Of course, shampoo you must, to remove the excess oil; but you could reduce the oil secretion by
31May 2018 FACES
LIFESTYLE MANTRA
HIGHLIGHTS ARE SPECIAL; THEY LIGHTEN UP THE PERSONALITY, GIVING IT HINTS OF VIVACITY AND A TOUCH OF GLAMOUR
If you subscribe to the ‘new season new look’ rule, go ahead; give your hair some highlights to start summer on a perfectly cheery note. Get creative; be adventurous, even wild, if you have the gumption, to pick on a colour that you want to see on your hair. A little head start on the trends and styles for the season would propel you in the right direction. Add to that notes about your natural hair colour, the texture and length of hair. Experts also point out the importance of balancing the colour you choose with your skin tone to ensure you don’t look like an alien who was dipped in a paint jar.
Like most women in this part of the world, if you are endowed with natural black hair and are looking for a dramatic hair colour, you would need a professional colourist to get your hair changed to the desired colour, as darker hair colours do not easily accept newer shades. Red is one colour to consider if you are dark haired. Red highlights can make your dark tresses stand out in a blaze. However, when choosing your hue of red, it would help to check if the shade would complement your skin tone. While fair skin can carry off a bright orange-red colour, or reddish-brown shade, medium skin tones can easily rock copper and golden reds; blue-red tones are suggested for those with dark skin tones.
But, if you are willing to experiment and go all the way, checkout platinum highlights, which would perfectly
contrast with your black hair. Navy highlight is chic and
savvy and so is chocolate brown.
Go on; get your highlight...
considering a switch from your regular shampoo and conditioner… However, if you have dry hair, summer is not the time to frequently shower. You could use moisturising formulas and hair serum, to start with. Opt for a gentle cleanser that does not potentially dry your hair. Give your hair some tender care to ensure that you do not lose more strands this season. Besides, with showers naturally dispensing warm to hot water during this season, owing to the heat the overhead tanks have to endure, you could keep your buckets filled with water overnight for a cool bath in the morning or evening. Also, summer demands a rinse-out conditioner to keep your hair smooth and stress free. An SPF shampoo, followed by an oil-based conditioner, could do wonders to your summer hair.
Style naturallyHair straighteners and other heat products tend to dry your hair; with summer already doing the drying job, it is best to avoid any styling products during the hot days of summer. Instead, learn some natural styling techniques that can give you the look you desire without using straighteners or hot curlers. Keep your hair wrapped in a towel for about 15 minutes after shower and then use a wide toothed comb to untangle the hair. If you have wavy hair, you could untangle it with your fingers; you could even curl the hair into ringlets using your finger. A leave-in conditioner could perfect the look and give the curls the moisture it requires.
Another old school practice to use to style your hair naturally this season is with bobby pins. First, separate your hair into two sections and start clipping the smaller sections back with bobby pins to make them look flat on your head. Pin the hair in circles around the head and leave it on overnight or until the moist hair is fully dry. Remove the pins in the morning or when it is dry and voila, you have straight, silky hair. For wavy hair, all that you need to do is braid the hair in two sections and sleep on it to style your hair in natural waves the next day.Have great hair this summer!
THEHIGHLIGHTS IN YOUR HAIR…By Sophia Raman
FACES May 201832
IN FASHION
Centrepoint’s Ramadan 2018 fashion brings luxury and modest glamour to the region with a stunning collection for the whole family
Centrepoint’s Ramadan Collection
Stylish Ramadan Looks For WomenFor women, this season’s collection is themed around the ‘desert of Arabia’ with a liberal use of metallic and a range of surface finishes, from polished to brushed or perforated styles. The Splash collection displays items that offer versatility and the flexibility of wearing day to night, and are highlighted with sequins, crystals and embroideries in hues of dusty rose, champagne, black and off white in items that have been created epically for this festive season.
FACES May 201832
FACES May 201832
IN FASHION
Centrepoint’s Ramadan 2018 fashion brings luxury and modest glamour to the region with a stunning collection for the whole family
Centrepoint’s Ramadan Collection
Stylish Ramadan Looks For WomenFor women, this season’s collection is themed around the ‘desert of Arabia’ with a liberal use of metallic and a range of surface finishes, from polished to brushed or perforated styles. The Splash collection displays items that offer versatility and the flexibility of wearing day to night, and are highlighted with sequins, crystals and embroideries in hues of dusty rose, champagne, black and off white in items that have been created epically for this festive season.
FACES May 201832 33May 2018 FACES
IN FASHION
Aiiry kaftans, glamorous sequined evening dresses, metallic sheath dresses and luxe and bejewelled tops will address women’s Iftar needs during the month of Ramadan. For a more refined, yet festive look, the collection also introduces ruffles and lace to tops and dresses, in addition to classy flowy trousers and overalls.
To complete the look, Shoemart has a range of footwear and purses to complement any outfit, from highly wearable brown and nude pink shades through to more psychotropic and glittery shades that will work all summer.
Ramadan Styles for Trendy Tots & TeensBabyshop is taking kids out on a rollercoaster fashion ride this Ramadan. Pastels, muted and bright colours are dominating this season for boys and girls for summer warmth and brightness.
33May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201834
IN FASHION
The stylish girls’ collection includes designs in floral patterns, lace, ruffle and embroidery in wearable styles perfect for all occasions. Boys can go all out with Centrepoint’s Ramadan 2018 exclusive fashion, and look dashing during the holy month at their family gatherings. The colour theme this season has white, off-white, nude brown, yellow, sky blue, blue, and grey.
The collection is quite rich with coloured stripes on plackets, stitch details on buttons, cross stitches, stripe sets, funky ties and suspenders.
FACES May 201834 35May 2018 FACES
IN FASHION
Ramadan Collection from LifestyleFor shoppers looking to purchase new stylish handbags, Lifestyle brings an elegant selection that will catch the eye - with sparkly embellished clutches for a Ramadan gathering. When it comes to makeup, Lifestyle also offers a range of dark eyeliners perfected by dewy eye shadow colours, and bold lipstick, giving one a flawless look.
The Centrepoint Ramadan collection will be available in all stores in the KSA, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman & Lebanon.
35May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201834
IN FASHION
The stylish girls’ collection includes designs in floral patterns, lace, ruffle and embroidery in wearable styles perfect for all occasions. Boys can go all out with Centrepoint’s Ramadan 2018 exclusive fashion, and look dashing during the holy month at their family gatherings. The colour theme this season has white, off-white, nude brown, yellow, sky blue, blue, and grey.
The collection is quite rich with coloured stripes on plackets, stitch details on buttons, cross stitches, stripe sets, funky ties and suspenders.
FACES May 201834 35May 2018 FACES
IN FASHION
Ramadan Collection from LifestyleFor shoppers looking to purchase new stylish handbags, Lifestyle brings an elegant selection that will catch the eye - with sparkly embellished clutches for a Ramadan gathering. When it comes to makeup, Lifestyle also offers a range of dark eyeliners perfected by dewy eye shadow colours, and bold lipstick, giving one a flawless look.
The Centrepoint Ramadan collection will be available in all stores in the KSA, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman & Lebanon.
35May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201836
For Spring/Summer 2018, Maison Mayshad* introduces new handbags and original materials that will personalise one’s look in the feminine and empowering Mayshad style. Through continuous
travels and exchanges with inspiring women, Nezha Alaoui captures their dreams and needs and materializes them into desirable bags and accessories. The inspiration for SS18 is the glowing Moroccan desert, which, as a space, is a regular and fond memory of Creative Director, Nezha Alaoui.
Mayshad Paris has designed many different pieces within the collection, to ensure there is something for every woman this summer, whatever the occasion.
The Timeless Bag: Available in small and large, ‘The Timeless Bag’ is comfortable to carry around for daily routines. It is made from all natural calf leather and its style exudes Parisian elegance. For SS18, Mayshad Paris presents The Timeless Bag in up to five different colours, including denim, all perfectly suited for vibrant summer days.
The Precious Purse: A hybrid of the Timeless Bag and Statement Purse, ‘The Precious Purse’ is perfect for a stylish summer’s day out. The piece is a medium sized square shape and boasts many internal pockets. The Precious can be worn in two ways due to its adjustable chain, across the body or over the shoulder and the finishing touch is a golden hexagonal turn to lock clasp.
The Statement Purse: The ‘Be Who You Want to Be’ Statement Purse is for the strong and independent women of the world. A woman who carries the statement purse has the courage to live freely yet respectfully, whilst ensuring they pursue who they want to be. For SS18, the Statement Purse is available in five colours and boasts new materials such as textured canvas and denim. The purse can also be converted to an over the shoulder bag through a golden chain and vice versa, such can disappear into the bag allowing it to be held as a clutch.
The Panier Bag: The Panier bag is a comfortable and relaxed summer shape directly inspired by traditional Moroccan baskets. Shoulder or hand carried and closed with a zipper, The Panier will be your partner for shopping and leisure activities. For this piece, Maison Mayshad selected a textured canvas to materialize the soft sand of the desert and give The Panier its distinctive character.
The SS18 Ogive Key Ring: The SS18 Key Ring is one of many accessories that Mayshad Paris has produced for SS18, alongside the Mayshad Card Holder and Zipped Clutch. The SS18 Key Ring will be available in numerous colours to complement any outfit, including black, beige, burgundy, olive and pink.
(Mayshad Paris is a French luxury handbag brand which places mass importance on its values & philosophy, of addressing international and contemporary women and men looking to make a difference in this world with their approach to fashion and luxury. www.maisonmayshad.com )
IN FASHION
Mayshad Paris The ever glowing warmth of the Moroccan desert sets the tone for this season’s collection
37May 2018 FACES
‘NO TEARSLEFT TO CRY’
ESQUE IT WITH ALE
Ale Al Zadjali is a 24 year-old award-winning fashion designer; he is the brain behind the ‘Esque By Ale’ line of clothing
ARIANA GRANDE’S ‘NO TEARS LEFT TO CRY’ IS A VISUAL MASTERPIECE, STATES ALE AL ZADJALI, AS HE THROWS THE SPOTLIGHT ON HER GRAVITY DEFYING STUNTS AND HER STRIKING ATTIRE
Lately it has been much harder for me to find a music video
that truly impresses me and takes me through the journey it creates. It’s not since Camila Cabello’s ‘Havana’ or Taylor Swift’s ‘Look What You Made Me Do’ that a video (and song) truly left me mesmerised.
Just as April was about to end, Ariana Grande decided to release ‘No Tears Left To Cry’ - the song is actual perfection. It might only be 4 months into 2018 but I do declare that this is the peak of quality music for the year. The song wasn’t the only thing to have me obsessed and fully hooked; the accompanying video impressed me even more. The set is an entire city, and Ariana defies gravity, thinking she’s Batman jumping off rooftops and twirling on staircases. It’s a visual masterpiece, from the cinematography to Ariana herself.
The video starts with her rocking a long braid that is paired with a Victorian-esque skirt and a tank top! To me this was the standout of the video because she mastered the art of mixing in different elements to create a masterpiece. Later on in the video, she pulled out the thigh high boots with a polka dot dress, a metallic slip dress with matching heels, a bodysuit with a matching pair of socks and concluded the video with a jacket that she wore with the back down to represent the quintessential Ariana Grande aesthetic. Basically, as Katy Perry would say, ‘WIG.’
Inspired by the full moon and its illuminating light, the Orbit collection takes shape in round silhouettes, bright hues and unique textures. Crafted from cowhide with a matte croc effect print, the ‘Luna’ handbag is available in shades of dusty rose, magenta, cobalt and grey. Featuring
a top flap and suede inner lining, the gold chain and leather interwoven shoulder strap frames the bag to captivating effect. Bright, modern and unique, the Orbit collection infuses a whimsical touch to your summer wardrobe.
Najla Al-Jamali, creator of Najla Zuhair brand, started designing handbags in 2004, under the label Jizdaani, after being inspired by the ornate belt on a Khanjar. She introduced her brand Najla Zuhair 10 years later and the collection reflects her own maturing taste and is inspired by elegance, class and simplicity. The Omani born designer continues to reference her Middle Eastern heritage, crafting luxurious materials into unique shapes, reflecting a modern yet timeless aesthetic.
The Orbit Collection Najla Zuhair’s latest collection, ‘Orbit’, evokes modern femininity through organic shapes, bold colours and luxurious hardware
For more information visit: www.najlazuhair.com
FACES May 201836
For Spring/Summer 2018, Maison Mayshad* introduces new handbags and original materials that will personalise one’s look in the feminine and empowering Mayshad style. Through continuous
travels and exchanges with inspiring women, Nezha Alaoui captures their dreams and needs and materializes them into desirable bags and accessories. The inspiration for SS18 is the glowing Moroccan desert, which, as a space, is a regular and fond memory of Creative Director, Nezha Alaoui.
Mayshad Paris has designed many different pieces within the collection, to ensure there is something for every woman this summer, whatever the occasion.
The Timeless Bag: Available in small and large, ‘The Timeless Bag’ is comfortable to carry around for daily routines. It is made from all natural calf leather and its style exudes Parisian elegance. For SS18, Mayshad Paris presents The Timeless Bag in up to five different colours, including denim, all perfectly suited for vibrant summer days.
The Precious Purse: A hybrid of the Timeless Bag and Statement Purse, ‘The Precious Purse’ is perfect for a stylish summer’s day out. The piece is a medium sized square shape and boasts many internal pockets. The Precious can be worn in two ways due to its adjustable chain, across the body or over the shoulder and the finishing touch is a golden hexagonal turn to lock clasp.
The Statement Purse: The ‘Be Who You Want to Be’ Statement Purse is for the strong and independent women of the world. A woman who carries the statement purse has the courage to live freely yet respectfully, whilst ensuring they pursue who they want to be. For SS18, the Statement Purse is available in five colours and boasts new materials such as textured canvas and denim. The purse can also be converted to an over the shoulder bag through a golden chain and vice versa, such can disappear into the bag allowing it to be held as a clutch.
The Panier Bag: The Panier bag is a comfortable and relaxed summer shape directly inspired by traditional Moroccan baskets. Shoulder or hand carried and closed with a zipper, The Panier will be your partner for shopping and leisure activities. For this piece, Maison Mayshad selected a textured canvas to materialize the soft sand of the desert and give The Panier its distinctive character.
The SS18 Ogive Key Ring: The SS18 Key Ring is one of many accessories that Mayshad Paris has produced for SS18, alongside the Mayshad Card Holder and Zipped Clutch. The SS18 Key Ring will be available in numerous colours to complement any outfit, including black, beige, burgundy, olive and pink.
(Mayshad Paris is a French luxury handbag brand which places mass importance on its values & philosophy, of addressing international and contemporary women and men looking to make a difference in this world with their approach to fashion and luxury. www.maisonmayshad.com )
IN FASHION
Mayshad Paris The ever glowing warmth of the Moroccan desert sets the tone for this season’s collection
37May 2018 FACES
‘NO TEARSLEFT TO CRY’
ESQUE IT WITH ALE
Ale Al Zadjali is a 24 year-old award-winning fashion designer; he is the brain behind the ‘Esque By Ale’ line of clothing
ARIANA GRANDE’S ‘NO TEARS LEFT TO CRY’ IS A VISUAL MASTERPIECE, STATES ALE AL ZADJALI, AS HE THROWS THE SPOTLIGHT ON HER GRAVITY DEFYING STUNTS AND HER STRIKING ATTIRE
Lately it has been much harder for me to find a music video
that truly impresses me and takes me through the journey it creates. It’s not since Camila Cabello’s ‘Havana’ or Taylor Swift’s ‘Look What You Made Me Do’ that a video (and song) truly left me mesmerised.
Just as April was about to end, Ariana Grande decided to release ‘No Tears Left To Cry’ - the song is actual perfection. It might only be 4 months into 2018 but I do declare that this is the peak of quality music for the year. The song wasn’t the only thing to have me obsessed and fully hooked; the accompanying video impressed me even more. The set is an entire city, and Ariana defies gravity, thinking she’s Batman jumping off rooftops and twirling on staircases. It’s a visual masterpiece, from the cinematography to Ariana herself.
The video starts with her rocking a long braid that is paired with a Victorian-esque skirt and a tank top! To me this was the standout of the video because she mastered the art of mixing in different elements to create a masterpiece. Later on in the video, she pulled out the thigh high boots with a polka dot dress, a metallic slip dress with matching heels, a bodysuit with a matching pair of socks and concluded the video with a jacket that she wore with the back down to represent the quintessential Ariana Grande aesthetic. Basically, as Katy Perry would say, ‘WIG.’
Inspired by the full moon and its illuminating light, the Orbit collection takes shape in round silhouettes, bright hues and unique textures. Crafted from cowhide with a matte croc effect print, the ‘Luna’ handbag is available in shades of dusty rose, magenta, cobalt and grey. Featuring
a top flap and suede inner lining, the gold chain and leather interwoven shoulder strap frames the bag to captivating effect. Bright, modern and unique, the Orbit collection infuses a whimsical touch to your summer wardrobe.
Najla Al-Jamali, creator of Najla Zuhair brand, started designing handbags in 2004, under the label Jizdaani, after being inspired by the ornate belt on a Khanjar. She introduced her brand Najla Zuhair 10 years later and the collection reflects her own maturing taste and is inspired by elegance, class and simplicity. The Omani born designer continues to reference her Middle Eastern heritage, crafting luxurious materials into unique shapes, reflecting a modern yet timeless aesthetic.
The Orbit Collection Najla Zuhair’s latest collection, ‘Orbit’, evokes modern femininity through organic shapes, bold colours and luxurious hardware
For more information visit: www.najlazuhair.com
FACES May 201838
The Barr Al Hikman peninsula occupies the largest part of the Al Wusta Wetlands Reserve with an
area of approximately 900sqkms; it has significant regional and international importance as the main wintering and stop-over place for migratory shorebirds. It is classified as one of the top 25 sites of international importance for migratory birds during winter in the African-Eurasian Flyway.
According to a recent survey, over 300,000 birds of approximately 80 different species have made the intertidal wetland on the coast of Oman their home for resting and feeding during annual migration
Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate
EXPLORE OMAN
In partnership with the Ministry of Environment & Climate Affairs, Shell Development Oman supported the first full Spring Migration count of the Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate, which includes the Barr Al Hikman peninsula. The survey revealed that over 300,000 birds of approximately 80 different species have made the intertidal wetland their home for resting and feeding during their annual migration.
According to a press release issued by Shell Development Oman, the data collected by the team of 11 Dutch experts provides vital information for conservation planning of the site. It also
supports efforts by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs to designate the Reserve as a Ramsar site (wetlands that are recognised as being of international importance), in addition to promoting better understanding of how the Wetlands Reserve functions as an ecosystem for the waterbirds and other marine and terrestrial life that depend upon it throughout the year.
Supported, organised and conducted by Wetlands International, a global not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the conservation and restoration of wetlands, the survey is part of Shell’s ongoing commitment to promoting and sustaining biodiversity.
FACES May 201838 39May 2018 FACES
Recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, the Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate was declared as Nature Reserve by the Royal Decree No. 51/2014; it covers an area of 2621sqkms.
Globally, Shell has worked with Wetlands International since 2008 on projects that range from managing biodiversity and water issues at its operations in Iraq, Brunei and Canada to combining wetland conservation with the creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities in Nigeria.
Commenting on the Waterbird Survey in Oman, Ward Hagemeijer, Program Head Business and Ecosystems at Wetlands International, said, “This survey has produced critical information for successful management of Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate and has brought the effective conservation of the treasures this area holds a step closer. An effective conservation management of the wetlands is a puzzle with many
pieces. A few are already known and this March 2018 survey has added a new one. Several more pieces are still waiting to be looked into.”
Although the analysis of the collected data is still in progress, first impressions indicate that overall numbers of birds are lower in March than in January 2017. This is the result of a complex picture of birds leaving after spending the winter in the Wetland Reserves - departing to the breeding places - and the arrival of other birds that have spent their winter further South and are passing through the Wetland Reserves on their way North. It appears that more birds have left than have been replenished from the South.
The picture differs a lot per species. A number of species show lower numbers in March: the Lesser Sand Plover’s numbers are 80 percent lower in March 2018 than in January 2017; Dunlin is 50 percent lower.
These are amongst the most common species at the Wetland
EXPLORE OMAN
Reserves and therefore have a large impact on the overall figures. The less numerous but very characteristic Crab Plover, a signature species, was found to be 90 percent less than in January 2017. Large gulls and Cormorant were also far less numerous than in January. Curlew Sandpipers, on the other hand, have increased 4 fold. Most other species show less marked differences.
Besides the total count, other methods were deployed to disentangle the complex picture of species coming and going to and from the Wetland Reserve. Frequent counting of a small area, the counting of a sample-site, the ringing and colour-marking of waders shed new light on how the birds use the area. This work kick-started a multi-year research programme to support the effective management of the Wetland Reserve as a site of international importance. Complete findings from the first full Spring Migration count are to be published later in the year.
39May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201838
The Barr Al Hikman peninsula occupies the largest part of the Al Wusta Wetlands Reserve with an
area of approximately 900sqkms; it has significant regional and international importance as the main wintering and stop-over place for migratory shorebirds. It is classified as one of the top 25 sites of international importance for migratory birds during winter in the African-Eurasian Flyway.
According to a recent survey, over 300,000 birds of approximately 80 different species have made the intertidal wetland on the coast of Oman their home for resting and feeding during annual migration
Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate
EXPLORE OMAN
In partnership with the Ministry of Environment & Climate Affairs, Shell Development Oman supported the first full Spring Migration count of the Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate, which includes the Barr Al Hikman peninsula. The survey revealed that over 300,000 birds of approximately 80 different species have made the intertidal wetland their home for resting and feeding during their annual migration.
According to a press release issued by Shell Development Oman, the data collected by the team of 11 Dutch experts provides vital information for conservation planning of the site. It also
supports efforts by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs to designate the Reserve as a Ramsar site (wetlands that are recognised as being of international importance), in addition to promoting better understanding of how the Wetlands Reserve functions as an ecosystem for the waterbirds and other marine and terrestrial life that depend upon it throughout the year.
Supported, organised and conducted by Wetlands International, a global not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the conservation and restoration of wetlands, the survey is part of Shell’s ongoing commitment to promoting and sustaining biodiversity.
FACES May 201838 39May 2018 FACES
Recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, the Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate was declared as Nature Reserve by the Royal Decree No. 51/2014; it covers an area of 2621sqkms.
Globally, Shell has worked with Wetlands International since 2008 on projects that range from managing biodiversity and water issues at its operations in Iraq, Brunei and Canada to combining wetland conservation with the creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities in Nigeria.
Commenting on the Waterbird Survey in Oman, Ward Hagemeijer, Program Head Business and Ecosystems at Wetlands International, said, “This survey has produced critical information for successful management of Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate and has brought the effective conservation of the treasures this area holds a step closer. An effective conservation management of the wetlands is a puzzle with many
pieces. A few are already known and this March 2018 survey has added a new one. Several more pieces are still waiting to be looked into.”
Although the analysis of the collected data is still in progress, first impressions indicate that overall numbers of birds are lower in March than in January 2017. This is the result of a complex picture of birds leaving after spending the winter in the Wetland Reserves - departing to the breeding places - and the arrival of other birds that have spent their winter further South and are passing through the Wetland Reserves on their way North. It appears that more birds have left than have been replenished from the South.
The picture differs a lot per species. A number of species show lower numbers in March: the Lesser Sand Plover’s numbers are 80 percent lower in March 2018 than in January 2017; Dunlin is 50 percent lower.
These are amongst the most common species at the Wetland
EXPLORE OMAN
Reserves and therefore have a large impact on the overall figures. The less numerous but very characteristic Crab Plover, a signature species, was found to be 90 percent less than in January 2017. Large gulls and Cormorant were also far less numerous than in January. Curlew Sandpipers, on the other hand, have increased 4 fold. Most other species show less marked differences.
Besides the total count, other methods were deployed to disentangle the complex picture of species coming and going to and from the Wetland Reserve. Frequent counting of a small area, the counting of a sample-site, the ringing and colour-marking of waders shed new light on how the birds use the area. This work kick-started a multi-year research programme to support the effective management of the Wetland Reserve as a site of international importance. Complete findings from the first full Spring Migration count are to be published later in the year.
39May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201840
Summer Holidays:
Do’s & Don’ts
Can summer complete its course without a holiday pegged onto its long,
laborious months? You said ‘no’?We knew that would be your inevitable reply and so have harvested the wide world of internet to find the right antidote to make it special for you and your family. Regular holidaymakers probably know the best path to follow when planning a holiday with the family, but newer destinations mean newer issues, newer dilemmas… While there is no one set of do’s and don’ts that can be applied across every summer holiday, experience suggests that it is best to follow the established mores to enjoy all the value additions to your holiday.Here are some guidelines that you should observe to make the most of your summer holiday:
Plan and organisePlanning and organising is not all about taking the fun out of surprise elements or becoming too fastidious for comfort. We agree,
As you sketch out your summer itinerary, draw a list of do’s and don’ts to follow through to ensure that
your holiday is stress free and fun filled
over-planning and going beyond the well-organised requirement can be stifling, but you simply cannot overlook the importance of planning a holiday to make it hassle free, more so if you are travelling with children. But if you are the gregarious sort and love to leave things to chance, we suggest cutting up your plan to cover only the outline of the holiday and not what goes into it. This means
checking your passports for expiry, ensuring visa to the destination is stamped or arranged for, flight tickets are in order, transportation from the airport to the hotel is booked and the accommodation is sorted. A quick online check of the destination, if it is a new one, will not spoil the fun too; in fact, it will help you get set for your summer holiday on a right note.
JUST TRAVEL
41May 2018 FACES
Pack rightWhat to pack and not to pack ought to be determined by the weather and cultural dictates of the place on your holiday scanner. Whether it is the beach gear or mall outfit, understand the cultural sentiments of the locals in the destination of your choice while packing clothes. And, again, do not become whimsical and pack clothes for any superfluous reasons. Like too many cooks in the kitchen, too many bags in your travel plan can curtail the fun of moving impromptu to unplanned places in the destination of your choice. But if over-packing is pointless, under-packing can be equally unwise. Of course, you could buy essentials and pick up little things from the local shops, but if you are sticking to a budget, you wouldn’t want to add shopping for clothes and essentials into your itinerary.
Do not overindulge Holidays infuse a carefree mien, one that easily spreads to every activity undertaken, eating included. It is easy to indulge your palate and go on binge eating sessions, more so if breakfast buffet is the part of your holiday package. When on holiday it does seem right to check out all the fancy street foods and pack your tummy till it bursts. Unless you have a higher rate of metabolism, all that food will find a way to stick around long after the holidays. Besides,
JUST TRAVEL
overindulgence of the food kind could cause aches and pains that you wouldn’t want on a holiday.
Relax and unwindYou are on a holiday. Don’t make it look like any other mundane day. Stop checking those emails and messages from the office. If possible, go on a complete digital detox all through the holiday. You will be astounded by all that your senses will take in and cherish. Go ahead, click those pictures, but don’t fall into temptation and upload them
all on your social media to let your friends and followers know how much fun you are having. That can wait until you are back at your hotel or home after the holidays. Besides, remember you have come on a holiday to relax and reconnect with the family/friends you are with.
Do not hesitate to throw caution to wind when it comes to your looks and appearance. Inhibitions are shackling… Make this holiday your raison d’etre to experience life as it was meant to.
FACES May 201840
Summer Holidays:
Do’s & Don’ts
Can summer complete its course without a holiday pegged onto its long,
laborious months? You said ‘no’?We knew that would be your inevitable reply and so have harvested the wide world of internet to find the right antidote to make it special for you and your family. Regular holidaymakers probably know the best path to follow when planning a holiday with the family, but newer destinations mean newer issues, newer dilemmas… While there is no one set of do’s and don’ts that can be applied across every summer holiday, experience suggests that it is best to follow the established mores to enjoy all the value additions to your holiday.Here are some guidelines that you should observe to make the most of your summer holiday:
Plan and organisePlanning and organising is not all about taking the fun out of surprise elements or becoming too fastidious for comfort. We agree,
As you sketch out your summer itinerary, draw a list of do’s and don’ts to follow through to ensure that
your holiday is stress free and fun filled
over-planning and going beyond the well-organised requirement can be stifling, but you simply cannot overlook the importance of planning a holiday to make it hassle free, more so if you are travelling with children. But if you are the gregarious sort and love to leave things to chance, we suggest cutting up your plan to cover only the outline of the holiday and not what goes into it. This means
checking your passports for expiry, ensuring visa to the destination is stamped or arranged for, flight tickets are in order, transportation from the airport to the hotel is booked and the accommodation is sorted. A quick online check of the destination, if it is a new one, will not spoil the fun too; in fact, it will help you get set for your summer holiday on a right note.
JUST TRAVEL
41May 2018 FACES
Pack rightWhat to pack and not to pack ought to be determined by the weather and cultural dictates of the place on your holiday scanner. Whether it is the beach gear or mall outfit, understand the cultural sentiments of the locals in the destination of your choice while packing clothes. And, again, do not become whimsical and pack clothes for any superfluous reasons. Like too many cooks in the kitchen, too many bags in your travel plan can curtail the fun of moving impromptu to unplanned places in the destination of your choice. But if over-packing is pointless, under-packing can be equally unwise. Of course, you could buy essentials and pick up little things from the local shops, but if you are sticking to a budget, you wouldn’t want to add shopping for clothes and essentials into your itinerary.
Do not overindulge Holidays infuse a carefree mien, one that easily spreads to every activity undertaken, eating included. It is easy to indulge your palate and go on binge eating sessions, more so if breakfast buffet is the part of your holiday package. When on holiday it does seem right to check out all the fancy street foods and pack your tummy till it bursts. Unless you have a higher rate of metabolism, all that food will find a way to stick around long after the holidays. Besides,
JUST TRAVEL
overindulgence of the food kind could cause aches and pains that you wouldn’t want on a holiday.
Relax and unwindYou are on a holiday. Don’t make it look like any other mundane day. Stop checking those emails and messages from the office. If possible, go on a complete digital detox all through the holiday. You will be astounded by all that your senses will take in and cherish. Go ahead, click those pictures, but don’t fall into temptation and upload them
all on your social media to let your friends and followers know how much fun you are having. That can wait until you are back at your hotel or home after the holidays. Besides, remember you have come on a holiday to relax and reconnect with the family/friends you are with.
Do not hesitate to throw caution to wind when it comes to your looks and appearance. Inhibitions are shackling… Make this holiday your raison d’etre to experience life as it was meant to.
FACES May 201842
What is the relation between antioxidants and the risk factors
involved in chronic diseases? What are the preventive measures and possible treatments currently available in Oman…? These and other pertinent questions related to nutrition and chronic diseases were under the spotlight of the ‘Nutritional Antioxidants Therapy: A Multidimensional Perspective’ workshop, organised recently by the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Marine Science (CAMS), at Sultan Qaboos University, which featured 14 speakers from different disciplines. The topics covered included Antioxidants; Functional Foods; Natural Therapeutic Agents; Dietary Supplements; and Nutrition after Disease Diagnosis - in addition to emerging concepts for human chronic diseases and lifestyle modifications.
Nutrition and Chronic Diseases
Antioxidants fromplant-based-diets Presenting a paper titled ‘Antioxidants from plant-based-diets and their impact on human health’, Dr. Amanat Ali, Associate Professor of the Department, affirmed that available scientific evidence suggests a plausible basis to justify the link between diet, lifestyle factors and health. “Unhealthy dietary patterns, lack of physical activity and other lifestyles related behaviours are the major causes of nutritional disorders and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This is because
the traditional plant-based diets containing whole foods are being replaced with ready-made energy-dense foods containing high amounts of fat and sugar,” he stated. According to him, adequate and well-balanced plant-based diet is the best cost-effective approach to prevent the risk of malnutrition and prevention of NCDs.
Effect of antioxidants in children with malnutrition Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency continues to be a major risk factor for illness and death with hundreds of millions of pregnant
HEALTH CHECK
The Department of Food Science and Nutrition at Sultan Qaboos University, organised a workshop on ‘Nutritional Antioxidants Therapy:
A Multidimensional Perspective’ to create awareness on prevention and initial screening of chronic diseases
43May 2018 FACES
HEALTH CHECK
Dietary Antioxidants Supplementation and Diseases Management Most foods high in antioxidants are also high in fibre, low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and are good sources of vitamins and minerals, making them valuable ingredients to promote overall health and well-being. While there are potentially thousands of different substances that act as antioxidants, some of the most common ones and their food sources are as follows, noted Dr. Manoj KG, of Abbott Nutrition Division: l Beta-carotene (carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli and lettuce)l Lutein (broccoli, corn, peas and green, leafy vegetables like spinach)l Lycopene (tomatoes, apricots, guava, papaya and watermelon)l Selenium (fish, chicken, eggs, cheese, nuts, legumes, bread and cereal)l Vitamin A (apricots, mangoes, carrots, broccoli, dairy products, salmon and green, leafy vegetables like spinach) l Vitamin C (oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, strawberries, red and green peppers, broccoli, potatoes and tomatoes)l Vitamin E (sunflower, safflower, corn and soybean oils; some nuts, such as almonds and peanuts; and green vegetables like spinach and broccoli).
Getting antioxidants through a well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, fish, lean meat, nuts, whole grains and legumes is always best. However, antioxidant supplements might be recommended for high risk groups of adults and children population.
women and young children affected globally, stated Dr. Amel Ibrahim from Nutrition Department/DGHA, Ministry of Health, Oman, in his paper on the ‘Effects of antioxidants in children with malnutrition’. “Apart from wasting, stunting and underweight, deficiencies in iron, iodine, vitamin A, vitamin D and zinc are the main manifestations of malnutrition in developing countries. In these communities, a high prevalence of unbalanced diet and infectious disease regularly unites into a vicious circle,” he explained, stressing that mineral metabolism and antioxidant status needs renewed attention.
Clinical role of antioxidants in criticallyill patients The role of antioxidants and other key nutrients in critically ill patients is one of the most controversially discussed therapeutic interventions, observed Dr. Ruqaiya Al Balushi, Clinical Dietician at Ministry of Health’s Nutrition Department, in her paper on the clinical role of antioxidants. “Previously not much attention was given to the therapeutic role of antioxidants and other key
nutrients in improving clinical outcomes in critically ill patients. However, in the last few decades, the role of these nutrients has changed drammatically from playing a supportive role to being an active therapeutic intervention,” she stated.
Oxidative Stress in Autism40 to 50 percent of variance in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) liability might be determined by environmental factors, suggest recent reports. In his paper titled ‘Systemic Markers of Oxidative Stress in Autism’, Dr. Yahya Al Farsi, Associate Professor, Family Medicine and Public Health Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, SQU, however, highlighted systematic reviews and meta-analyses of environmental risk factors for ASD, which suggest that several environmental factors, including vaccination, maternal smoking, thimerosal (mercury-containing preservative used in some vaccines) exposure, and, most likely, assisted reproductive technologies, are unrelated to ASD risk. “On the contrary, advanced parental age is associated with higher risk of ASD. Birth complications that are associated with trauma or ischemia
and hypoxia have also shown strong links to ASD, whereas other pregnancy-related factors such as maternal obesity, maternal diabetes, and caesarean section have shown a less strong (but significant) association with risk of ASD.
Antioxidant supplements Highlighting the good, bad and the ugly facets of antioxidant supplements, Dr. Preeja Prabhakar, Consultant, Food Science and Human Nutrition, CAMS, SQU, said: “People who eat fruits and vegetables have a lower risk of heart disease and some neurological diseases...even protection against some cancers. Antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin C, and Beta Carotene have long been proposed by many to be disease preventing dietary supplements… But, it is important to underline how positive findings are mostly from observational studies, so that the relationship between vitamin E supplementation and lower rates of cardiovascular disease might reflect an overall healthy lifestyle and dietary intake of supplement users, rather than a real protective effect.”
FACES May 201842
What is the relation between antioxidants and the risk factors
involved in chronic diseases? What are the preventive measures and possible treatments currently available in Oman…? These and other pertinent questions related to nutrition and chronic diseases were under the spotlight of the ‘Nutritional Antioxidants Therapy: A Multidimensional Perspective’ workshop, organised recently by the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Marine Science (CAMS), at Sultan Qaboos University, which featured 14 speakers from different disciplines. The topics covered included Antioxidants; Functional Foods; Natural Therapeutic Agents; Dietary Supplements; and Nutrition after Disease Diagnosis - in addition to emerging concepts for human chronic diseases and lifestyle modifications.
Nutrition and Chronic Diseases
Antioxidants fromplant-based-diets Presenting a paper titled ‘Antioxidants from plant-based-diets and their impact on human health’, Dr. Amanat Ali, Associate Professor of the Department, affirmed that available scientific evidence suggests a plausible basis to justify the link between diet, lifestyle factors and health. “Unhealthy dietary patterns, lack of physical activity and other lifestyles related behaviours are the major causes of nutritional disorders and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This is because
the traditional plant-based diets containing whole foods are being replaced with ready-made energy-dense foods containing high amounts of fat and sugar,” he stated. According to him, adequate and well-balanced plant-based diet is the best cost-effective approach to prevent the risk of malnutrition and prevention of NCDs.
Effect of antioxidants in children with malnutrition Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency continues to be a major risk factor for illness and death with hundreds of millions of pregnant
HEALTH CHECK
The Department of Food Science and Nutrition at Sultan Qaboos University, organised a workshop on ‘Nutritional Antioxidants Therapy:
A Multidimensional Perspective’ to create awareness on prevention and initial screening of chronic diseases
43May 2018 FACES
HEALTH CHECK
Dietary Antioxidants Supplementation and Diseases Management Most foods high in antioxidants are also high in fibre, low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and are good sources of vitamins and minerals, making them valuable ingredients to promote overall health and well-being. While there are potentially thousands of different substances that act as antioxidants, some of the most common ones and their food sources are as follows, noted Dr. Manoj KG, of Abbott Nutrition Division: l Beta-carotene (carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli and lettuce)l Lutein (broccoli, corn, peas and green, leafy vegetables like spinach)l Lycopene (tomatoes, apricots, guava, papaya and watermelon)l Selenium (fish, chicken, eggs, cheese, nuts, legumes, bread and cereal)l Vitamin A (apricots, mangoes, carrots, broccoli, dairy products, salmon and green, leafy vegetables like spinach) l Vitamin C (oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, strawberries, red and green peppers, broccoli, potatoes and tomatoes)l Vitamin E (sunflower, safflower, corn and soybean oils; some nuts, such as almonds and peanuts; and green vegetables like spinach and broccoli).
Getting antioxidants through a well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, fish, lean meat, nuts, whole grains and legumes is always best. However, antioxidant supplements might be recommended for high risk groups of adults and children population.
women and young children affected globally, stated Dr. Amel Ibrahim from Nutrition Department/DGHA, Ministry of Health, Oman, in his paper on the ‘Effects of antioxidants in children with malnutrition’. “Apart from wasting, stunting and underweight, deficiencies in iron, iodine, vitamin A, vitamin D and zinc are the main manifestations of malnutrition in developing countries. In these communities, a high prevalence of unbalanced diet and infectious disease regularly unites into a vicious circle,” he explained, stressing that mineral metabolism and antioxidant status needs renewed attention.
Clinical role of antioxidants in criticallyill patients The role of antioxidants and other key nutrients in critically ill patients is one of the most controversially discussed therapeutic interventions, observed Dr. Ruqaiya Al Balushi, Clinical Dietician at Ministry of Health’s Nutrition Department, in her paper on the clinical role of antioxidants. “Previously not much attention was given to the therapeutic role of antioxidants and other key
nutrients in improving clinical outcomes in critically ill patients. However, in the last few decades, the role of these nutrients has changed drammatically from playing a supportive role to being an active therapeutic intervention,” she stated.
Oxidative Stress in Autism40 to 50 percent of variance in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) liability might be determined by environmental factors, suggest recent reports. In his paper titled ‘Systemic Markers of Oxidative Stress in Autism’, Dr. Yahya Al Farsi, Associate Professor, Family Medicine and Public Health Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, SQU, however, highlighted systematic reviews and meta-analyses of environmental risk factors for ASD, which suggest that several environmental factors, including vaccination, maternal smoking, thimerosal (mercury-containing preservative used in some vaccines) exposure, and, most likely, assisted reproductive technologies, are unrelated to ASD risk. “On the contrary, advanced parental age is associated with higher risk of ASD. Birth complications that are associated with trauma or ischemia
and hypoxia have also shown strong links to ASD, whereas other pregnancy-related factors such as maternal obesity, maternal diabetes, and caesarean section have shown a less strong (but significant) association with risk of ASD.
Antioxidant supplements Highlighting the good, bad and the ugly facets of antioxidant supplements, Dr. Preeja Prabhakar, Consultant, Food Science and Human Nutrition, CAMS, SQU, said: “People who eat fruits and vegetables have a lower risk of heart disease and some neurological diseases...even protection against some cancers. Antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin C, and Beta Carotene have long been proposed by many to be disease preventing dietary supplements… But, it is important to underline how positive findings are mostly from observational studies, so that the relationship between vitamin E supplementation and lower rates of cardiovascular disease might reflect an overall healthy lifestyle and dietary intake of supplement users, rather than a real protective effect.”
FACES May 201844
Obesity: A sign of poverty In what comes across as an oxymoron, a study has claimed that obesity is a sign of poverty rather than wealth. The study, which spanned 70 years, found that richer people tend to be slimmer, in comparison to the poor. Researchers analysed health data of 22,500 children at seven years old, 34,873 at 11 years old, and 26,128 at 15 years old, in four groups, from 1946 to 2001. Results showed that poorer children, born several years after the war were both thinner and shorter than children who came from wealthier families; however, things changed in the new millennium. Although poorer children were taller, they had a tendency to be obese and overweight owing to unhealthy food habits. Two sodas a day
could double heart disease riskYes, it is sizzling hot and the humidity level is at an unbearable high. But no, don’t reach for that cold, fizzy soda. There are several healthier alternatives to quench your thirst – filtered water for one. A study, spanning six years, found that people over 45, who excessively drink sugary beverages like sodas, fruit drinks and juices, are more at risk of dying from heart disease. Participants of the study, who consumed around two cans of soda a day, doubled their risk of dying from coronary heart disease, compared to those who took less than an ounce of sugary beverages. According to researchers, there is a ‘flood of sugars’ that is released by sweetened drinks, which must be metabolised in the body.
HEALTHY TIDING
Apple cider vinegar: the good and the bad Whether apple cider vinegar is good or bad for diarrhoea was the focus of a recent study that overlooked the popularity of apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy for many an ailment. Owing to its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar could cause stomach discomfort or digestive problems if consumed in large amounts in undiluted form. It could also trigger, as well as suppress, diarrhoea. For, researchers have found that while apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties that can destroy E. coli bacteria, which can cause food poisoning and many cases of diarrhoea, it could might destroy some types of bacteria in the gut that are good for digestion, leading to diarrhoea.
No more ‘poker face’?The time is near when technology will see right through people’s emotions, even if they try hard to hide it. According to Dolby Laboratories chief scientist Poppy Crum, sensors combined with artificial intelligence can reveal whether someone is lying, infatuated, or poised for violence. While eye dilation reveals how hard a brain is working, heat radiating from the skin signals whether one is stressed or is piqued in romance. Micro-expressions and chemicals in breath reveal feelings. Besides, the timing of someone’s speech can also expose whether they are at risk of dementia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or bipolar disorder. Brain waves can indicate whether someone’s attention is elsewhere, regardless of the fact that their gaze is locked on the person in front of them.
45May 2018 FACES
Stress is contagious?Science has suggested that stress could be contagious, as humans have a sophisticated ability to pick up on stress cues from others. While that explains the passing of stress from the boss to the lowest cadre in an office setup, that it can impact even strangers formed the crux of a new study. As a part of a research into stress and behaviour, data was collected from thousands of people in a task called the ‘Trier Social Stress Test’. College students were recruited to stand up in front of a group of strangers, give a public speech and were asked to mentally compute some tough arithmetic problem. While the participants became flustered and made errors with their arithmetic, the audience also tended to feel the stress. “As humans, we have always had a vested biological interest in picking up on how others around us are feeling,” observed the researcher.
Barley water to the rescueTo state the obvious, barley water and barley-based products are made from barley. It is said to be one of the oldest grains in the world and has been upheld for its variety of health benefits. Of the long list of benefits, the most significant ones are that it is an excellent source of fibre, it can reduce the level of LDL or the so-called bad cholesterol in the blood, that consuming barley-based foods can help balance gut bacteria, that it helps lower blood sugar levels for 11 to 14 hours, and that it encourages weight loss by prompting the body to release hormones that regulate appetite, thus making the person feel fuller for long.
Beware of hand dryersDubbed as ‘bacteria bombs’ by researchers, the hand dryers in public restrooms have come under the scanner of health experts. According to researchers, the hot-air dryers are covertly blowing out all sorts of germs back onto the hands. Although they aren’t necessarily dangerous, the only way to stave off those germs and prevent the spread of bad bacteria is to wash hands and dry it on a paper towel. Researchers used germ-collecting plates to study the hand dryers and they found that any bacteria that landed on the plates would start growing, forming tiny, domed bacterial colonies. The researchers counted the number of colonies that appeared on each plate and said the results were staggering.
Meditate to reduce anxietyEven a single session of meditation can have a marked impact on anxiety. Studies have shown that an hour-long mindful meditation can help reverse the physical and psychological toll of stress on the body. While previous research had shown significant reductions in anxiety levels after weeks of meditation, the new study suggests that just one meditation session can lower anxiety and even cardiovascular risk. Researchers found significant effects on both physical and mental symptoms of anxiety from mediation. Participants of the study not only reported far less anxiety on the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) system, they also had physical indicators of less stress.
HEALTHY TIDING
FACES May 201844
Obesity: A sign of poverty In what comes across as an oxymoron, a study has claimed that obesity is a sign of poverty rather than wealth. The study, which spanned 70 years, found that richer people tend to be slimmer, in comparison to the poor. Researchers analysed health data of 22,500 children at seven years old, 34,873 at 11 years old, and 26,128 at 15 years old, in four groups, from 1946 to 2001. Results showed that poorer children, born several years after the war were both thinner and shorter than children who came from wealthier families; however, things changed in the new millennium. Although poorer children were taller, they had a tendency to be obese and overweight owing to unhealthy food habits. Two sodas a day
could double heart disease riskYes, it is sizzling hot and the humidity level is at an unbearable high. But no, don’t reach for that cold, fizzy soda. There are several healthier alternatives to quench your thirst – filtered water for one. A study, spanning six years, found that people over 45, who excessively drink sugary beverages like sodas, fruit drinks and juices, are more at risk of dying from heart disease. Participants of the study, who consumed around two cans of soda a day, doubled their risk of dying from coronary heart disease, compared to those who took less than an ounce of sugary beverages. According to researchers, there is a ‘flood of sugars’ that is released by sweetened drinks, which must be metabolised in the body.
HEALTHY TIDING
Apple cider vinegar: the good and the bad Whether apple cider vinegar is good or bad for diarrhoea was the focus of a recent study that overlooked the popularity of apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy for many an ailment. Owing to its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar could cause stomach discomfort or digestive problems if consumed in large amounts in undiluted form. It could also trigger, as well as suppress, diarrhoea. For, researchers have found that while apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties that can destroy E. coli bacteria, which can cause food poisoning and many cases of diarrhoea, it could might destroy some types of bacteria in the gut that are good for digestion, leading to diarrhoea.
No more ‘poker face’?The time is near when technology will see right through people’s emotions, even if they try hard to hide it. According to Dolby Laboratories chief scientist Poppy Crum, sensors combined with artificial intelligence can reveal whether someone is lying, infatuated, or poised for violence. While eye dilation reveals how hard a brain is working, heat radiating from the skin signals whether one is stressed or is piqued in romance. Micro-expressions and chemicals in breath reveal feelings. Besides, the timing of someone’s speech can also expose whether they are at risk of dementia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or bipolar disorder. Brain waves can indicate whether someone’s attention is elsewhere, regardless of the fact that their gaze is locked on the person in front of them.
45May 2018 FACES
Stress is contagious?Science has suggested that stress could be contagious, as humans have a sophisticated ability to pick up on stress cues from others. While that explains the passing of stress from the boss to the lowest cadre in an office setup, that it can impact even strangers formed the crux of a new study. As a part of a research into stress and behaviour, data was collected from thousands of people in a task called the ‘Trier Social Stress Test’. College students were recruited to stand up in front of a group of strangers, give a public speech and were asked to mentally compute some tough arithmetic problem. While the participants became flustered and made errors with their arithmetic, the audience also tended to feel the stress. “As humans, we have always had a vested biological interest in picking up on how others around us are feeling,” observed the researcher.
Barley water to the rescueTo state the obvious, barley water and barley-based products are made from barley. It is said to be one of the oldest grains in the world and has been upheld for its variety of health benefits. Of the long list of benefits, the most significant ones are that it is an excellent source of fibre, it can reduce the level of LDL or the so-called bad cholesterol in the blood, that consuming barley-based foods can help balance gut bacteria, that it helps lower blood sugar levels for 11 to 14 hours, and that it encourages weight loss by prompting the body to release hormones that regulate appetite, thus making the person feel fuller for long.
Beware of hand dryersDubbed as ‘bacteria bombs’ by researchers, the hand dryers in public restrooms have come under the scanner of health experts. According to researchers, the hot-air dryers are covertly blowing out all sorts of germs back onto the hands. Although they aren’t necessarily dangerous, the only way to stave off those germs and prevent the spread of bad bacteria is to wash hands and dry it on a paper towel. Researchers used germ-collecting plates to study the hand dryers and they found that any bacteria that landed on the plates would start growing, forming tiny, domed bacterial colonies. The researchers counted the number of colonies that appeared on each plate and said the results were staggering.
Meditate to reduce anxietyEven a single session of meditation can have a marked impact on anxiety. Studies have shown that an hour-long mindful meditation can help reverse the physical and psychological toll of stress on the body. While previous research had shown significant reductions in anxiety levels after weeks of meditation, the new study suggests that just one meditation session can lower anxiety and even cardiovascular risk. Researchers found significant effects on both physical and mental symptoms of anxiety from mediation. Participants of the study not only reported far less anxiety on the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) system, they also had physical indicators of less stress.
HEALTHY TIDING
FACES May 201846
Fasting, rather intermittent fasting has the potential to help you meet your fitness targets, state experts, who prescribe staggered workout
regimes to accompany fasting, so as to reach the desired figure on the scale. Although fasting by itself can induce weight loss without indulging in workouts that can aggravate the dehydration and hunger brought on by fasting, the idea is to keep up the fitness momentum with a consistent exercise routine to maintain a healthy balance between mind and body.
What is important here is the timing that you choose for workouts. While studies have shown that people who jogged before breakfast burned up to 20 percent
Fast and WorkoutDIET & FITNESS
Exercising on an empty stomach is the secret to weight loss, maintain fitness enthusiasts who advocate Ramadan observers to follow a well structured fitness
regime if weight loss is on the agenda
more fat than the ones who jogged after, the fact is that you might lose more muscles in the process, as the body tends to break down proteins in the absence of glycogen or stored carbohydrates to fuel the exercise.
The dilemma then is that not only would you lose fat when exercising on an intermittent diet; you might also lose muscles, thus defeating the purpose of your fasted workout. Ideally, follow the middle path, the one that will benefit your body and your weight loss goals.
Right, there are several benefits of fasted workouts, but there are some rules that need to be applied to maximise the benefits, which include an increase in aerobic capacity and fat utilisation. What is important here is to stick to a
47May 2018 FACES
workout plan and boost
that weight loss plan with tips and
guidelines from experts:
Start with low-intensity workout: Moderation, that’s the key to every aspect of your health; your fasted work out too. Follow a low intensity cardio workout, at least in the early days of fasting, to help your body acclimatise to the changes taking place. A light jog in the garden/park or a short stint on the treadmill should be fine to start off. However, stop the workout if you feel dizzy from pangs of hunger. Ensure that your workout isn’t a struggle that makes you breathless. The initial stages are difficult, but you will soon learn that your body has adapted to the changes and you will get on the exercise bandwagon easily.
DIET & FITNESS
Initiate high-intensity workout after breaking fast: If you want to maximise your weight loss goal, programme your workouts around your meal times. Although working out on a full stomach is not recommended, the suggested idea is to schedule your high-intensity workout closer to the last meal or the Iftar. Eating a snack or a regular meal, three to four hours before the workout session, will provide the right amount of energy to follow through the schedule of exercise. The carbohydrates from the meal will fuel your exercise. And, if you are driven toward muscle-building, your best bet would be a protein diet, both before and after your workout.
l Do workout in the morning, before breakfast; it is convenient and effective.l Ideal fasting workouts are cycling, elliptical treadmill or jogging in the morning hours.l Short cardio sessions are ideal for fasting workouts; but it should not exceed more than 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your level of workouts.l Stick to moderate intensity workouts during the fasted state.l Consume your meal or breakfast within half an hour after the
workout session, and include a mix of lean proteins and carbohydrates in it.l If you are working out after breaking the fast, do not forget to drink enough water to stay hydrated during the session.l Do not include weights if you are working out in the fasted state.l Do check with your doctor about undertaking workouts during fasting if you have any medical conditions.
Fasting workouts: Dos and Don’ts
FACES May 201846
Fasting, rather intermittent fasting has the potential to help you meet your fitness targets, state experts, who prescribe staggered workout
regimes to accompany fasting, so as to reach the desired figure on the scale. Although fasting by itself can induce weight loss without indulging in workouts that can aggravate the dehydration and hunger brought on by fasting, the idea is to keep up the fitness momentum with a consistent exercise routine to maintain a healthy balance between mind and body.
What is important here is the timing that you choose for workouts. While studies have shown that people who jogged before breakfast burned up to 20 percent
Fast and WorkoutDIET & FITNESS
Exercising on an empty stomach is the secret to weight loss, maintain fitness enthusiasts who advocate Ramadan observers to follow a well structured fitness
regime if weight loss is on the agenda
more fat than the ones who jogged after, the fact is that you might lose more muscles in the process, as the body tends to break down proteins in the absence of glycogen or stored carbohydrates to fuel the exercise.
The dilemma then is that not only would you lose fat when exercising on an intermittent diet; you might also lose muscles, thus defeating the purpose of your fasted workout. Ideally, follow the middle path, the one that will benefit your body and your weight loss goals.
Right, there are several benefits of fasted workouts, but there are some rules that need to be applied to maximise the benefits, which include an increase in aerobic capacity and fat utilisation. What is important here is to stick to a
47May 2018 FACES
workout plan and boost
that weight loss plan with tips and
guidelines from experts:
Start with low-intensity workout: Moderation, that’s the key to every aspect of your health; your fasted work out too. Follow a low intensity cardio workout, at least in the early days of fasting, to help your body acclimatise to the changes taking place. A light jog in the garden/park or a short stint on the treadmill should be fine to start off. However, stop the workout if you feel dizzy from pangs of hunger. Ensure that your workout isn’t a struggle that makes you breathless. The initial stages are difficult, but you will soon learn that your body has adapted to the changes and you will get on the exercise bandwagon easily.
DIET & FITNESS
Initiate high-intensity workout after breaking fast: If you want to maximise your weight loss goal, programme your workouts around your meal times. Although working out on a full stomach is not recommended, the suggested idea is to schedule your high-intensity workout closer to the last meal or the Iftar. Eating a snack or a regular meal, three to four hours before the workout session, will provide the right amount of energy to follow through the schedule of exercise. The carbohydrates from the meal will fuel your exercise. And, if you are driven toward muscle-building, your best bet would be a protein diet, both before and after your workout.
l Do workout in the morning, before breakfast; it is convenient and effective.l Ideal fasting workouts are cycling, elliptical treadmill or jogging in the morning hours.l Short cardio sessions are ideal for fasting workouts; but it should not exceed more than 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your level of workouts.l Stick to moderate intensity workouts during the fasted state.l Consume your meal or breakfast within half an hour after the
workout session, and include a mix of lean proteins and carbohydrates in it.l If you are working out after breaking the fast, do not forget to drink enough water to stay hydrated during the session.l Do not include weights if you are working out in the fasted state.l Do check with your doctor about undertaking workouts during fasting if you have any medical conditions.
Fasting workouts: Dos and Don’ts
FACES May 201848
Nee
d s
ome
mot
ivat
ion?
What motivates men to do something might equally inspire women, but the factors that trigger action in men are often, if not always, varied from those that motivate women. Studies have shown that
men respond better to incentives related to goal setting than to financial rewards. This might not be different from what women see as motivation, but specific studies have demonstrated that men are spurred by challenges that have an element of risk involved. Women, according to studies, are motivated more by respect, interpersonal relations, empathy, acknowledgement and the like.
The question here then is how to ensure that motivation, the one that predicts success, is a constant factor for men who need spurs to set goals? What makes this subject appear all the more complex is that the source of motivation may be varied and also unrelated to success.
So what does it take for men to give their best?
Seek reward: The reward in question could be immediate incentive or a mental satisfaction, but the fact is that what motivates one might not even get another to dilate his eyes. The reward then boils down to what one believes, rather classifies as an incentive; that is the deciding factor in establishing how much of dedication will go into fulfilling a task. Self-interest is the motivation that is fuelled by a sense of independence and a feeling of mastery that the task endows.
Feel strongly: Emotions play a strong role in dictating ones actions, which is why it is seen as a big source of motivation too. Strong emotions like fear, jealousy or even revenge are better motivators than external rewards. In effect, how strongly one feels about certain issues/people can work more powerfully than other, seemingly obvious, triggers of motivation. What is important then is to focus on emotions and induce the right feelings. This should be applied to workplace, which is, generally, seen as a formal setup, sans emotions or feelings. A change in such thinking, rather introduction of emotions into workplace will automatically make it motivating.
MAN DATE
Motivation is illusive; it cannot be seen or tabulated, but on a gender scale, men are seen to be motivated more by results that are measurable than soft issues that drive women
FACES May 201848
FACES May 201848
Nee
d s
ome
mot
ivat
ion?
What motivates men to do something might equally inspire women, but the factors that trigger action in men are often, if not always, varied from those that motivate women. Studies have shown that
men respond better to incentives related to goal setting than to financial rewards. This might not be different from what women see as motivation, but specific studies have demonstrated that men are spurred by challenges that have an element of risk involved. Women, according to studies, are motivated more by respect, interpersonal relations, empathy, acknowledgement and the like.
The question here then is how to ensure that motivation, the one that predicts success, is a constant factor for men who need spurs to set goals? What makes this subject appear all the more complex is that the source of motivation may be varied and also unrelated to success.
So what does it take for men to give their best?
Seek reward: The reward in question could be immediate incentive or a mental satisfaction, but the fact is that what motivates one might not even get another to dilate his eyes. The reward then boils down to what one believes, rather classifies as an incentive; that is the deciding factor in establishing how much of dedication will go into fulfilling a task. Self-interest is the motivation that is fuelled by a sense of independence and a feeling of mastery that the task endows.
Feel strongly: Emotions play a strong role in dictating ones actions, which is why it is seen as a big source of motivation too. Strong emotions like fear, jealousy or even revenge are better motivators than external rewards. In effect, how strongly one feels about certain issues/people can work more powerfully than other, seemingly obvious, triggers of motivation. What is important then is to focus on emotions and induce the right feelings. This should be applied to workplace, which is, generally, seen as a formal setup, sans emotions or feelings. A change in such thinking, rather introduction of emotions into workplace will automatically make it motivating.
MAN DATE
Motivation is illusive; it cannot be seen or tabulated, but on a gender scale, men are seen to be motivated more by results that are measurable than soft issues that drive women
FACES May 201848 49May 2018 FACES
Track progress: Researchers have also found that the biggest motivation for anyone is the idea of progress. It is the knowledge of progress that ignites a passion to fulfil a task. The focus then should be on facilitating progress in meaningful work. Interestingly, progress here does not refer to the ultimate win; it is the consistent flow of small successes that act as a motivator. Reflecting on all the stepping stones of progress can work wonders in pushing one ahead towards the goal. It creates a persistent need to experience progress and thereby do what one has to do. When one spends time thinking over the little progresses achieved, there is a sense accomplishment that is induced to reach the set target. Lack of progress then can act as a dampener in the motivation quarters.
MAN DATE
Stay focused: What is in focus is easy to achieve; it brings things into a right perspective. On a day-to-day level, focus as a motivator becomes all the more significant when one sets goals for weight loss or physical fitness. It calls for dedication and commitment to stay focused and get inspired to reach the target. As experts suggest, what is important to stay motivated is to ask the ‘why’ question than the ‘what.’ Asking why - why one is doing what one is doing, will prove to be a catharsis; it will provide clarity and spur one to reach the target that much faster.
49May 2018 FACES
Happiness counts: Happiness is a true motivation. What makes one happy will change how one sees a task; it will change the equation between work and passion. On an employment platform, it is job satisfaction that acts as a spur to wake up in the morning, get ready and rush to office… It is the essence of happiness pegged on to the act that pushes one to perform and achieve.
FACES May 201850
Get your home ready for the season of Ramadan with little touches of décor
elements that infuse a feel of spirituality and the warmth of family love
With Ramadan pressing the brakes on the mundane pace of life to usher in a palpable waft of spirituality and contemplative quietude, get set to inject the mood of the season into your
home with little touches of décor elements that have Ramadan subtly labelled over them.
Clean up the homeFestivals, traditionally, have been seen as times to undertake thorough cleaning of the home space to set the pace for the festivities and welcome the season. And with Ramadan advocating abstinence and spiritual reflection, a home spruced up to create the right ambience gains
all the more significance. What is important here is to give your home a complete treatment - before the onset of the season, if possible. If not, get your
home ready for the Eid
AT HOME
Home for Ramadan
FACES May 201850 51May 2018 FACES
that will follow the month long season of sharing. This cleaning should go beyond the regular dusting, sweeping and mopping; it should include changing or washing curtains and table clothes; airing carpets, rugs and furniture and generally ensuring that the unnecessary and unessential things lying around the house are discarded/given to charity and the essential items are cleaned up for the festive season.
Light up the homeLights spell feast like nothing else. Whether you opt for the miniature coloured ones or pick traditional lamps to get into the season, lights are essential to give your home the look and feel of the fast approaching feast. Interestingly, most countries in and around the region have their traditional Ramadan lamps that are brought out with the start of the season. These lamps are aesthetic in their appeal and are symbolic in their presentation. You could place these lamps in and around the home or light up the living space with candles to complement the mood of the season. String lights are convenient and also easy to decorate your home for Ramadan.
Create the moodLittle things can go a long way in setting the tempo for the month of Ramadan. Like books on Islamic literature to adorn the coffee table or children’s picture books depicting the joys of the season. Alternately, you could create a display table that is strikingly Ramadan in its presentation, with a ‘Ramadan Kareem’ banner hanging around it. Place the table near the entry or use your console table to transform into your Ramadan mood-setter. Incorporate decorative prints or posters on Ramadan to adorn the table. String lights could add to the effect. You could also save a space on the table to place a countdown chart to Eid; this would be an ideal way to involve children in the countdown to the big day.
Set the dining tableIn most households, where mealtimes are individual affairs than family times owing to work pressures, Ramadan comes as a beacon to embrace members of the family in its warm glow of love and togetherness. Iftar is a time to spend with the family and/or friends and that places the importance on the dining table where every member
is expected to sit down and break the fast. Alongside cutlery and napkins, ensure that there is a platter or apothecary jars filled with dates and nuts, as well as little candles to spread the warmth of the light around.
Introduce Ramadan traditionsFestivals are all about reliving traditions, but creating your own family tradition, one that revolves around feasts, is a perfect way to establish a bond with your children. While the tradition you chose to follow through is only limited by your creativity, what should be fundamental to make it a successful one is the involvement of every member of the family. You could create a Ramadan countdown chart or decorate a gratitude jar for the season, wherein every member of the family writes down one thing they are thankful for the day. Place every note in the jar and make time to read it on the day of the Eid or before the onset of the next Ramadan. Over a period, you would have collected several Ramadan jars, which in itself could be your home décor statement.
51May 2018 FACES
Go on, get your home set for the Holy Month.
AT HOME
FACES May 201850
Get your home ready for the season of Ramadan with little touches of décor
elements that infuse a feel of spirituality and the warmth of family love
With Ramadan pressing the brakes on the mundane pace of life to usher in a palpable waft of spirituality and contemplative quietude, get set to inject the mood of the season into your
home with little touches of décor elements that have Ramadan subtly labelled over them.
Clean up the homeFestivals, traditionally, have been seen as times to undertake thorough cleaning of the home space to set the pace for the festivities and welcome the season. And with Ramadan advocating abstinence and spiritual reflection, a home spruced up to create the right ambience gains
all the more significance. What is important here is to give your home a complete treatment - before the onset of the season, if possible. If not, get your
home ready for the Eid
AT HOME
Home for Ramadan
FACES May 201850 51May 2018 FACES
that will follow the month long season of sharing. This cleaning should go beyond the regular dusting, sweeping and mopping; it should include changing or washing curtains and table clothes; airing carpets, rugs and furniture and generally ensuring that the unnecessary and unessential things lying around the house are discarded/given to charity and the essential items are cleaned up for the festive season.
Light up the homeLights spell feast like nothing else. Whether you opt for the miniature coloured ones or pick traditional lamps to get into the season, lights are essential to give your home the look and feel of the fast approaching feast. Interestingly, most countries in and around the region have their traditional Ramadan lamps that are brought out with the start of the season. These lamps are aesthetic in their appeal and are symbolic in their presentation. You could place these lamps in and around the home or light up the living space with candles to complement the mood of the season. String lights are convenient and also easy to decorate your home for Ramadan.
Create the moodLittle things can go a long way in setting the tempo for the month of Ramadan. Like books on Islamic literature to adorn the coffee table or children’s picture books depicting the joys of the season. Alternately, you could create a display table that is strikingly Ramadan in its presentation, with a ‘Ramadan Kareem’ banner hanging around it. Place the table near the entry or use your console table to transform into your Ramadan mood-setter. Incorporate decorative prints or posters on Ramadan to adorn the table. String lights could add to the effect. You could also save a space on the table to place a countdown chart to Eid; this would be an ideal way to involve children in the countdown to the big day.
Set the dining tableIn most households, where mealtimes are individual affairs than family times owing to work pressures, Ramadan comes as a beacon to embrace members of the family in its warm glow of love and togetherness. Iftar is a time to spend with the family and/or friends and that places the importance on the dining table where every member
is expected to sit down and break the fast. Alongside cutlery and napkins, ensure that there is a platter or apothecary jars filled with dates and nuts, as well as little candles to spread the warmth of the light around.
Introduce Ramadan traditionsFestivals are all about reliving traditions, but creating your own family tradition, one that revolves around feasts, is a perfect way to establish a bond with your children. While the tradition you chose to follow through is only limited by your creativity, what should be fundamental to make it a successful one is the involvement of every member of the family. You could create a Ramadan countdown chart or decorate a gratitude jar for the season, wherein every member of the family writes down one thing they are thankful for the day. Place every note in the jar and make time to read it on the day of the Eid or before the onset of the next Ramadan. Over a period, you would have collected several Ramadan jars, which in itself could be your home décor statement.
51May 2018 FACES
Go on, get your home set for the Holy Month.
AT HOME
FACES May 201852
With May ushering in the joys of the Holy month, the time is now to prepare for the season of Ramadan with family and friends
Ramadan is the time to practice self-restraint, a time to cleanse the body from impurities and refocus on yourself. This Ramadan, bring about the changes that will last a lifetime
for you and your family with some tips from the Food Network* on ways and measures to prepare for, and break a fast, so as to remain safe and healthy all through the season.
Before the FastAs the days lead up to the start of the fast, it is important not to skip meals. There is no need to ‘practise’ ahead of the Holy Month; instead, ensure that you maintain your regular diet, leading up to it with a wholesome diet.
Here are three things you could do to stay in your best shape, ahead of the Holy Month:1. Maintain your dietEnsure your diet is high in fibre, full of nutrients and fluids, so you are in the best shape while you fast. Fibre helps you feel fuller for longer, while providing lots of vitamins, nutrients and minerals. Fruits, veggies and brown rice are great go-to sources. Meals could include brown rice, baked chicken, steamed veggies like carrots or broccoli, a tossed salad and fresh fruits for dessert.
Prepare for Ramadan
RELATIVELY SPEAKING
53May 2018 FACES
RELATIVELY SPEAKING
2. Keep Hydrated Drinking water and hydrating yourself before a fast is important. Carry a bottle of water with you everywhere you go. Also have a pitcher set-up during family meal times, so it acts as a constant reminder to keep hydrated, which will get you in the habit of following through when you break your fast during Ramadan.
3. Wean off Caffeine If you are a coffee addict, it’s a good idea to use this time to slowly cut down your caffeine intake. To help prep, reduce your intake about a week or two before the start of the season, so as to reduce the symptoms associated with caffeine withdrawal.
During FastAs Ramadan falls mid-spring this year, daylight will gradually get longer and hotter during the coming days. For those fasting, it is important to shift your usual dining hours to suit Ramadan timings and equip your body with the proper energy it needs. Things you can do to help during fast:
1. Be mindful of what you digestAvoid foods that you know will upset your stomach. Instead, opt for bland foods so as to avoid irritating your stomach. Oatmeal topped with fresh fruit, eggs scrambled or poached and a glass of milk, accompanied
by plenty of water, are great foods to ensure you fuel your body for the day ahead.
2. Light on the salt While sodium is great for the body, it’s a well-known fact that too much salt can also affect your hydration levels. Be mindful of your salt intake and try not to add any unnecessary seasoning to your foods when you break your fast.
3. Take it easy exercisingAre you a gym bunny? Fear not, you can still practise physical exercise. However, take it easy during fasting and do not over-exert yourself. Stick to light activity; try taking a long walk with the family to keep your energy up. If you absolutely must exercise, time it earlier in the morning, so you can refuel ahead of exercising and also finish with a well-balanced meal afterward, plus lots of water ahead of the day’s fast.
After the FastOnce Ramadan is finished, be mindful of your health. You would have come off a month of fasting, so eat slowly when you are consuming meals. Also, stick to meals that are low in fibre before jumping into sweet and decadent treats or aromatic, spicy foods. And, remember, always check with a registered dietitian and a doctor to make sure fasting won’t put your health at risk or affect your medicine intake during the Holy Month. Ramadan Mubarak!
(* For more tips and healthy food inspiration, head to Food Network, exclusively available on beIN - www.beIN.net/subscribe)
53May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201852
With May ushering in the joys of the Holy month, the time is now to prepare for the season of Ramadan with family and friends
Ramadan is the time to practice self-restraint, a time to cleanse the body from impurities and refocus on yourself. This Ramadan, bring about the changes that will last a lifetime
for you and your family with some tips from the Food Network* on ways and measures to prepare for, and break a fast, so as to remain safe and healthy all through the season.
Before the FastAs the days lead up to the start of the fast, it is important not to skip meals. There is no need to ‘practise’ ahead of the Holy Month; instead, ensure that you maintain your regular diet, leading up to it with a wholesome diet.
Here are three things you could do to stay in your best shape, ahead of the Holy Month:1. Maintain your dietEnsure your diet is high in fibre, full of nutrients and fluids, so you are in the best shape while you fast. Fibre helps you feel fuller for longer, while providing lots of vitamins, nutrients and minerals. Fruits, veggies and brown rice are great go-to sources. Meals could include brown rice, baked chicken, steamed veggies like carrots or broccoli, a tossed salad and fresh fruits for dessert.
Prepare for Ramadan
RELATIVELY SPEAKING
53May 2018 FACES
RELATIVELY SPEAKING
2. Keep Hydrated Drinking water and hydrating yourself before a fast is important. Carry a bottle of water with you everywhere you go. Also have a pitcher set-up during family meal times, so it acts as a constant reminder to keep hydrated, which will get you in the habit of following through when you break your fast during Ramadan.
3. Wean off Caffeine If you are a coffee addict, it’s a good idea to use this time to slowly cut down your caffeine intake. To help prep, reduce your intake about a week or two before the start of the season, so as to reduce the symptoms associated with caffeine withdrawal.
During FastAs Ramadan falls mid-spring this year, daylight will gradually get longer and hotter during the coming days. For those fasting, it is important to shift your usual dining hours to suit Ramadan timings and equip your body with the proper energy it needs. Things you can do to help during fast:
1. Be mindful of what you digestAvoid foods that you know will upset your stomach. Instead, opt for bland foods so as to avoid irritating your stomach. Oatmeal topped with fresh fruit, eggs scrambled or poached and a glass of milk, accompanied
by plenty of water, are great foods to ensure you fuel your body for the day ahead.
2. Light on the salt While sodium is great for the body, it’s a well-known fact that too much salt can also affect your hydration levels. Be mindful of your salt intake and try not to add any unnecessary seasoning to your foods when you break your fast.
3. Take it easy exercisingAre you a gym bunny? Fear not, you can still practise physical exercise. However, take it easy during fasting and do not over-exert yourself. Stick to light activity; try taking a long walk with the family to keep your energy up. If you absolutely must exercise, time it earlier in the morning, so you can refuel ahead of exercising and also finish with a well-balanced meal afterward, plus lots of water ahead of the day’s fast.
After the FastOnce Ramadan is finished, be mindful of your health. You would have come off a month of fasting, so eat slowly when you are consuming meals. Also, stick to meals that are low in fibre before jumping into sweet and decadent treats or aromatic, spicy foods. And, remember, always check with a registered dietitian and a doctor to make sure fasting won’t put your health at risk or affect your medicine intake during the Holy Month. Ramadan Mubarak!
(* For more tips and healthy food inspiration, head to Food Network, exclusively available on beIN - www.beIN.net/subscribe)
53May 2018 FACES
FACES May 201854
Bank Muscat Chief Executive ranked among top CEOs in GCC regionIn recognition of outstanding contributions to the banking and financial sector in Oman and the GCC region, Abdul Razak Ali Issa, Chief Executive of Bank Muscat, has earned a prominent position among the top CEOs in the GCC region. For the third consecutive year, Abdul Razak shared honours with the Top CEOs in the GCC region. The ranking was done by leading business publication group Mediaquest, in association with Insead Business School and Hawkamah Corporate Governance Institute. Commenting on the achievement, Abdul Razak said: “Bank Muscat is a Renaissance achievement of the Sultanate and I am proud to have been associated with the Bank in its quest to emerge as the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate.”
OMAN NEWS
LuLu Group set to open Nujum Al Amerat Mall Driven to create an innovative shopping experience, LuLu Group International is all set to open its new ‘Nujum’ brand of shopping mall in Al Amerat. Announcing the same at a press conference, a spokesperson for LuLu Group International said construction of the mid-sized community mall, which is being developed under the ‘Nujum’ brand for the first
time in Oman, has already begun. Nujum Al Amerat Mall will have entertainment centres with family-orientated fun and leisure experiences, fine dining options, a selection of prestigious retailing brands for shoppers, and also LuLu Group International’s hypermarket and department stores.
Panasonic launches new R410 split, cassette and duct AC models Panasonic has launched its newest range of residential and commercial air conditioner lineup of cassette and ducted models in Oman, in association with its local partner, Oman Marketing and Services Company (OMASCO). Complementing the brand’s highly energy-efficient split and VRF series, this new lineup will give a full range of cooling solutions for most residential and commercial applications. The new models qualify according to the most stringent energy regulations existing in the region and deliver the highest EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating across the range. They come equipped with DC fan motors, gold fins for higher corrosion resistance and long piping length capability for high-rise buildings. The lineup is available in capacities starting from 24K BTU up to 57K BTU.
Omani artist’s paintings to brand Al Mouj Muscat’s The Walk BuggiesArtwork by inspiring Omani painter, Safiya Al Bahlani, has been chosen to brand Al Mouj Muscat’s environmentally-friendly transportation buggies as part of the company’s initiative to support local artists in the Sultanate. The new initiative is part of Al Mouj Muscat’s wider Corporate Social Responsibility plan and will see the destination select different local artists to showcase their artwork on The Walk Buggies – a free buggy service operating within The Walk. Safiya Al Bahlani is an Omani artist, creative designer, and inspirational and motivational speaker who is renowned for painting inspirational poetry on canvas to motivate fellow Omanis with her challenging life story.
55May 2018 FACES
KKT Orthopedic Spine Center opened in MuscatKKT Orthopedic Spine Center celebrated the opening of its first clinic in Oman, recently. The Center offers a revolutionary non-surgical, non-invasive and painless treatment option for victims of back and neck pain. The KKT Treatment Platform uses sound waves to relieve pain by shifting and restoring the back, shoulders, and pelvis, while enhancing the health of the spinal discs, ligaments, and muscles. These waves help in realigning the spine and achieving a more biomechanically stable body that prevents ongoing damage and restores the body to its natural state, providing to the patient a higher quality of life and even reversing the elements of degeneration which are often related to injury and aging.
Organic India: Offering a healthy lifestyle in OmanWith more and more people opting for healthier, safer and quality food, organic food is once again showing the way. A well-established brand in India, Organic India has made its foray in Oman introducing a range of products
that include 11 varieties of tea, organic honey, organic ghee, virgin coconut oil as well as food supplements such as wheatgrass, moringa and psyllium husk that are proven to have health benefits. In the coming months, variety of organic spices, pulses, rice and oils will also be made available in the Oman market. Currently, this range is exclusively available at The Sultan Centre and is proving to be extremely popular with the customers. To mark the successful launch of the brand in Oman, General Manager Export for Organic India, Gurpreet Singh was recently in Muscat along with its exclusive distributors Barakat Muscat International, headed by Araj Mohandass.
Trampo Extreme coming soon to OmanTrampo Extreme, an established family entertainment centre in Kuwait, will be making its Oman debut this month. It will comprise a series of jumping, climbing, skating, and other family-friendly activities and will seek to provide the community with fun, action-packed activities for everyone, right from children to adults, creating an enjoyable family experience. It will also feature an event space for the purpose of hosting events, social gatherings, and birthday parties. Additionally, families can enjoy a delicious meal at the indoor food zone that will have food trucks and cycle carts providing fast food, desserts, and beverages. The centre will be developed in Ghala, near the Oman Exhibition and Convention Centre.
SalamAir set to touch down in Tbilisi and BakuSalamAir, is adding two new exciting destinations to its growing network, this coming Eid. Starting June 14, the airline will operate three weekly direct flights to Tbilisi, Georgia and two weekly flights to Baku in Azerbaijan. Guests can start planning their next holiday and book their tickets from RO 106 and RO 121, respectively, on www.SalamAir.com. SalamAir will be operating flights to Georgia’s capital city every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, while flights to Baku are scheduled twice weekly on Wednesday and Friday.
FACES May 201854
Bank Muscat Chief Executive ranked among top CEOs in GCC regionIn recognition of outstanding contributions to the banking and financial sector in Oman and the GCC region, Abdul Razak Ali Issa, Chief Executive of Bank Muscat, has earned a prominent position among the top CEOs in the GCC region. For the third consecutive year, Abdul Razak shared honours with the Top CEOs in the GCC region. The ranking was done by leading business publication group Mediaquest, in association with Insead Business School and Hawkamah Corporate Governance Institute. Commenting on the achievement, Abdul Razak said: “Bank Muscat is a Renaissance achievement of the Sultanate and I am proud to have been associated with the Bank in its quest to emerge as the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate.”
OMAN NEWS
LuLu Group set to open Nujum Al Amerat Mall Driven to create an innovative shopping experience, LuLu Group International is all set to open its new ‘Nujum’ brand of shopping mall in Al Amerat. Announcing the same at a press conference, a spokesperson for LuLu Group International said construction of the mid-sized community mall, which is being developed under the ‘Nujum’ brand for the first
time in Oman, has already begun. Nujum Al Amerat Mall will have entertainment centres with family-orientated fun and leisure experiences, fine dining options, a selection of prestigious retailing brands for shoppers, and also LuLu Group International’s hypermarket and department stores.
Panasonic launches new R410 split, cassette and duct AC models Panasonic has launched its newest range of residential and commercial air conditioner lineup of cassette and ducted models in Oman, in association with its local partner, Oman Marketing and Services Company (OMASCO). Complementing the brand’s highly energy-efficient split and VRF series, this new lineup will give a full range of cooling solutions for most residential and commercial applications. The new models qualify according to the most stringent energy regulations existing in the region and deliver the highest EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating across the range. They come equipped with DC fan motors, gold fins for higher corrosion resistance and long piping length capability for high-rise buildings. The lineup is available in capacities starting from 24K BTU up to 57K BTU.
Omani artist’s paintings to brand Al Mouj Muscat’s The Walk BuggiesArtwork by inspiring Omani painter, Safiya Al Bahlani, has been chosen to brand Al Mouj Muscat’s environmentally-friendly transportation buggies as part of the company’s initiative to support local artists in the Sultanate. The new initiative is part of Al Mouj Muscat’s wider Corporate Social Responsibility plan and will see the destination select different local artists to showcase their artwork on The Walk Buggies – a free buggy service operating within The Walk. Safiya Al Bahlani is an Omani artist, creative designer, and inspirational and motivational speaker who is renowned for painting inspirational poetry on canvas to motivate fellow Omanis with her challenging life story.
55May 2018 FACES
KKT Orthopedic Spine Center opened in MuscatKKT Orthopedic Spine Center celebrated the opening of its first clinic in Oman, recently. The Center offers a revolutionary non-surgical, non-invasive and painless treatment option for victims of back and neck pain. The KKT Treatment Platform uses sound waves to relieve pain by shifting and restoring the back, shoulders, and pelvis, while enhancing the health of the spinal discs, ligaments, and muscles. These waves help in realigning the spine and achieving a more biomechanically stable body that prevents ongoing damage and restores the body to its natural state, providing to the patient a higher quality of life and even reversing the elements of degeneration which are often related to injury and aging.
Organic India: Offering a healthy lifestyle in OmanWith more and more people opting for healthier, safer and quality food, organic food is once again showing the way. A well-established brand in India, Organic India has made its foray in Oman introducing a range of products
that include 11 varieties of tea, organic honey, organic ghee, virgin coconut oil as well as food supplements such as wheatgrass, moringa and psyllium husk that are proven to have health benefits. In the coming months, variety of organic spices, pulses, rice and oils will also be made available in the Oman market. Currently, this range is exclusively available at The Sultan Centre and is proving to be extremely popular with the customers. To mark the successful launch of the brand in Oman, General Manager Export for Organic India, Gurpreet Singh was recently in Muscat along with its exclusive distributors Barakat Muscat International, headed by Araj Mohandass.
Trampo Extreme coming soon to OmanTrampo Extreme, an established family entertainment centre in Kuwait, will be making its Oman debut this month. It will comprise a series of jumping, climbing, skating, and other family-friendly activities and will seek to provide the community with fun, action-packed activities for everyone, right from children to adults, creating an enjoyable family experience. It will also feature an event space for the purpose of hosting events, social gatherings, and birthday parties. Additionally, families can enjoy a delicious meal at the indoor food zone that will have food trucks and cycle carts providing fast food, desserts, and beverages. The centre will be developed in Ghala, near the Oman Exhibition and Convention Centre.
SalamAir set to touch down in Tbilisi and BakuSalamAir, is adding two new exciting destinations to its growing network, this coming Eid. Starting June 14, the airline will operate three weekly direct flights to Tbilisi, Georgia and two weekly flights to Baku in Azerbaijan. Guests can start planning their next holiday and book their tickets from RO 106 and RO 121, respectively, on www.SalamAir.com. SalamAir will be operating flights to Georgia’s capital city every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, while flights to Baku are scheduled twice weekly on Wednesday and Friday.
FACES May 201856
Exclusive Ramadan offerfrom Mercedes-Benz OmanIn celebration of the Holy Month, Mercedes-Benz Oman is offering a generous package available across its entire range of passenger cars and SUVs in the lead up to Ramadan. Available from April 17 to June 16, the offer features five years or a 75,000km service package, three years unlimited mileage warranty, three years Mobilo on road assistance, free registration and a gift from the masters of fine craftsmanship, Montblanc. The 2018 Ramadan package is available across Mercedes-Benz Oman’s full line-up of award winning cars.
AUTO NEWS
Mitsubishi’s Ramadan offer on OutlanderGeneral Automotive Company (GAC), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Oman, has announced its latest offer on Mitsubishi models. As part of the special offer, the Mitsubishi Outlander is now offered with cash gifts ranging from RO 2,425 to RO 3,130. Customers who purchase an Outlander before the offer ends on May 9 will also receive 6 years unlimited warranty, a free service package of 2 years/30,000km, free insurance in selective models, and 6 years roadside assistance. The current Outlander was the first Mitsubishi production vehicle to showcase the brand›s new ‘Dynamic Shield’ design language. The new 2018 Outlander takes this a step further, featuring a number of exterior updates that further enhance its overall look.
New Jeep Compass to arrive soon in Oman Jeep enthusiasts in the Sultanate will be able to celebrate the arrival of the long-awaited all-new Jeep Compass when it joins the existing line-up of Jeep models in Dhofar Automotive showrooms. The all-new Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that offers an unmatched combination of attributes alongside a competitive price, starting from RO 8,599. These attributes include best in class 4x4 off-road capability, contemporary and authentic Jeep design, excellent on-road driving dynamics, open-air freedom, great interior and cargo space, and a full array of advanced user-friendly connectivity and safety technologies. Powered by a 2.4-litre Tigershark petrol engine with MultiAir2 technology and paired to a nine-speed automatic gearbox, fully independent suspensions, and precise electric power steering, the Compass offers superior on-road driving dynamics.
57May 2018 FACES
Ramadan offers on Jeep, Dodge, and RAM ModelsDhofar Automotive (DA), the official distributor for Jeep, Dodge, and RAM vehicles in Oman, has announced its Ramadan Offers, which presents customers with huge discounts on a variety of Jeep, Dodge and RAM models from April 22 to June 21. Customers purchasing one of the included models during the promotion period will receive cash gifts from 15 percent up to 37 percent of the car value, together with deferred payments, free insurance, free service package of 3 years/60,000km, and warranty of 5 years/100,000km. The offer also includes free registration, five years road-side assistance, and several other benefits. In addition, three months deferred payments are offered exclusively through National Finance Company and at their sole discretion.
Volkswagen launches Ramadan promotionWattayah Motors, the official distributor of Volkswagen in Oman, announced the launch of its Ramadan offer, titled ‘We Say Yes’, on select models, comprising of the Golf GTI, Passat, Tiguan and Arteon. Customers purchasing one of the included models during the promotion period, which began on April 22 and lasts until June 21, will receive cash gifts ranging between RO 1,794 and RO 2,580. The offer also includes three months deferred payments, three years unlimited warranty, and three years road-side assistance, as well as free service package of 3 years/45,000km. Wattayah motors will also offer free LLumar Window Films for the first ten customers.
BAIC’s ‘Time for More’ Ramadan offer Gulf Great Sands LLC, the exclusive importer of BAIC in Oman, has announced the ‘Time for More’ Ramadan offer which makes it easy to own BAIC vehicles. The BAIC Ramadan promotion, which will go on till June 22, offers low monthly instalment, assured cash gift and offering on all-encompassing deal on BAIC range of vehicles. BAIC is extending special deals along with competitive prices across its range. It includes attractive cash gift, low monthly instalment, free fuel card as a gift, free first year registration, free first year insurance (Oman and UAE), manufacturer’s warranty and free first year 24 hrs roadside assistance. Under the offer, BAIC customers can avail assured cash gift ranging from RO 900 to RO 2500 varying model-wise.
FACES May 201856
Exclusive Ramadan offerfrom Mercedes-Benz OmanIn celebration of the Holy Month, Mercedes-Benz Oman is offering a generous package available across its entire range of passenger cars and SUVs in the lead up to Ramadan. Available from April 17 to June 16, the offer features five years or a 75,000km service package, three years unlimited mileage warranty, three years Mobilo on road assistance, free registration and a gift from the masters of fine craftsmanship, Montblanc. The 2018 Ramadan package is available across Mercedes-Benz Oman’s full line-up of award winning cars.
AUTO NEWS
Mitsubishi’s Ramadan offer on OutlanderGeneral Automotive Company (GAC), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Oman, has announced its latest offer on Mitsubishi models. As part of the special offer, the Mitsubishi Outlander is now offered with cash gifts ranging from RO 2,425 to RO 3,130. Customers who purchase an Outlander before the offer ends on May 9 will also receive 6 years unlimited warranty, a free service package of 2 years/30,000km, free insurance in selective models, and 6 years roadside assistance. The current Outlander was the first Mitsubishi production vehicle to showcase the brand›s new ‘Dynamic Shield’ design language. The new 2018 Outlander takes this a step further, featuring a number of exterior updates that further enhance its overall look.
New Jeep Compass to arrive soon in Oman Jeep enthusiasts in the Sultanate will be able to celebrate the arrival of the long-awaited all-new Jeep Compass when it joins the existing line-up of Jeep models in Dhofar Automotive showrooms. The all-new Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that offers an unmatched combination of attributes alongside a competitive price, starting from RO 8,599. These attributes include best in class 4x4 off-road capability, contemporary and authentic Jeep design, excellent on-road driving dynamics, open-air freedom, great interior and cargo space, and a full array of advanced user-friendly connectivity and safety technologies. Powered by a 2.4-litre Tigershark petrol engine with MultiAir2 technology and paired to a nine-speed automatic gearbox, fully independent suspensions, and precise electric power steering, the Compass offers superior on-road driving dynamics.
57May 2018 FACES
Ramadan offers on Jeep, Dodge, and RAM ModelsDhofar Automotive (DA), the official distributor for Jeep, Dodge, and RAM vehicles in Oman, has announced its Ramadan Offers, which presents customers with huge discounts on a variety of Jeep, Dodge and RAM models from April 22 to June 21. Customers purchasing one of the included models during the promotion period will receive cash gifts from 15 percent up to 37 percent of the car value, together with deferred payments, free insurance, free service package of 3 years/60,000km, and warranty of 5 years/100,000km. The offer also includes free registration, five years road-side assistance, and several other benefits. In addition, three months deferred payments are offered exclusively through National Finance Company and at their sole discretion.
Volkswagen launches Ramadan promotionWattayah Motors, the official distributor of Volkswagen in Oman, announced the launch of its Ramadan offer, titled ‘We Say Yes’, on select models, comprising of the Golf GTI, Passat, Tiguan and Arteon. Customers purchasing one of the included models during the promotion period, which began on April 22 and lasts until June 21, will receive cash gifts ranging between RO 1,794 and RO 2,580. The offer also includes three months deferred payments, three years unlimited warranty, and three years road-side assistance, as well as free service package of 3 years/45,000km. Wattayah motors will also offer free LLumar Window Films for the first ten customers.
BAIC’s ‘Time for More’ Ramadan offer Gulf Great Sands LLC, the exclusive importer of BAIC in Oman, has announced the ‘Time for More’ Ramadan offer which makes it easy to own BAIC vehicles. The BAIC Ramadan promotion, which will go on till June 22, offers low monthly instalment, assured cash gift and offering on all-encompassing deal on BAIC range of vehicles. BAIC is extending special deals along with competitive prices across its range. It includes attractive cash gift, low monthly instalment, free fuel card as a gift, free first year registration, free first year insurance (Oman and UAE), manufacturer’s warranty and free first year 24 hrs roadside assistance. Under the offer, BAIC customers can avail assured cash gift ranging from RO 900 to RO 2500 varying model-wise.
FACES May 201858
Deadpool 2, Deadpool forms the team X-Force to protect a young mutant from CableThis new superhero film, based on the Marvel Comics character Deadpool, is the eleventh installment in the X-Men film series;
it is a sequel to the 2016 film, Deadpool. The film is based on the script by Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, and Ryan Reynolds, with Reynolds starring in the title role. The film follows the fortunes of cafeteria chef, Wade Wilson, who is disfigured after surviving a near fatal bovine attack. He struggles to fulfil his dream of becoming Mayberry’s hottest bartender, while also learning to cope with his lost sense of taste. Searching to regain his spice for life, as well as a flux capacitor, Wade must battle ninjas, the yakuza, and a pack of aggressive canines, as he journeys around the world to discover the importance of family, friendship, and flavour. He finds a new taste for adventure and earns the coveted coffee mug title of World’s Best Lover.
CHARTTOPPERSCHART
TRENDING N
OWTOPPERS
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books GadgetChill OutMOVIE REVIEW
Deadpool 2
DirectorDavid Leitch
CastRyan ReynoldsJosh BrolinMorena BaccarinJulian DennisonZazie BeetzT.J. MillerBrianna HildebrandJack KesyStefan Kapičič
1. Nice For What: Drake
2. God’s Plan: Drake
3. Meant To Be: Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line
4. Psycho: Post Malone & Ty Dolla $ign
5. The Middle: Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey
6. Freaky Friday: Lil Dicky & Chris Brown
7. I Like It: Cardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin
8. Chun-Li: Nicki Minaj
9. Look Alive: BlocBoy JB
10. Sad!: XXXTentacion
59May 2018 FACES
Choose Yourself! Author: James AltucherIn ‘Choose Yourself’, author James Altucher is giving a call to readers to give up traditional career paths that may neither lead to success, nor happiness in the present day. The book teaches how to choose yourself, with advice to take your life into your own hands by building good habits, creating own career and making that important decision to choose ‘yourself’.
The Alchemist Author: Paulo CoelhoThe Alchemist follows the journey of an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago, who believes his recurring dream is giving him a prophetic message. A fortune teller deciphers his dream as a prophecy of great treasure at the Egyptian Pyramids and the boy decides to travel to the Pyramids and along the way encounters a string of people, including a wise alchemist who teaches him the importance of realizing his true self.
BOOK REVIEW
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget
UPCOMING RELEASES
Solo: A Star Wars Story Alden Ehrenreich, Donald Glover, Emilia Clarke, Woody Harrelson, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Thandie Newton Through a series of daring escapades, deep within a dark and dangerous criminal underworld, Han Solo befriends his mighty future co-pilot Chewbacca and meets the notorious gambler Lando Calrissian, in a journey that will set the course of one of the Star Wars saga’s most unlikely heroes.
Now, Discover Your StrengthsAuthor: Marcus Buckingham & Donald O. CliftonThis book, based on a large Gallup study of 2 million people, shows 1) individuals how to cultivate their own career strengths and strengths, 2) managers how to capitalise the talents of their people, and 3) executives how to build an entire organization around the talents of each employee.
Show Dogs Alan Cumming, Stanley Tucci, Natasha Lyonne, Will Arnett, RuPaul, Gabriel Iglesias, Shaquille O’NealShow Dogs stars a charming cast of talking canine characters, including Max (voiced by Ludacris), a rugged lone-wolf Rottweiler NYPD police dog. Max and his human FBI partner (Will Arnett) are investigating the kidnapping of a baby panda by an underground network of illegal animal traders when they get a tip that the crime ring is planning to sell the panda at the prestigious Canini Invitational Dog Show. Max goes through a makeover to go undercover to thwart the plot.
OverboardAnna Faris, Eugenio Derbez, Eva Longoria, John Hannah Leonardo is a selfish, spoiled, rich playboy from Mexico’s richest family, and Kate is a working class single mom of three, hired to clean Leonardo’s luxury yacht. After unjustly firing Kate and refusing to pay her, Leonardo falls overboard when partying too hard and wakes up on the Oregon coast with amnesia. Kate shows up at the hospital and, to get payback, convinces Leonardo he is her husband and puts him to work… But, with Leonardo’s billionaire family on their trail and the possibility of his memory returning, how will things pan out?
FACES May 201858
Deadpool 2, Deadpool forms the team X-Force to protect a young mutant from CableThis new superhero film, based on the Marvel Comics character Deadpool, is the eleventh installment in the X-Men film series;
it is a sequel to the 2016 film, Deadpool. The film is based on the script by Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, and Ryan Reynolds, with Reynolds starring in the title role. The film follows the fortunes of cafeteria chef, Wade Wilson, who is disfigured after surviving a near fatal bovine attack. He struggles to fulfil his dream of becoming Mayberry’s hottest bartender, while also learning to cope with his lost sense of taste. Searching to regain his spice for life, as well as a flux capacitor, Wade must battle ninjas, the yakuza, and a pack of aggressive canines, as he journeys around the world to discover the importance of family, friendship, and flavour. He finds a new taste for adventure and earns the coveted coffee mug title of World’s Best Lover.
CHARTTOPPERSCHART
TRENDING N
OWTOPPERS
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books GadgetChill OutMOVIE REVIEW
Deadpool 2
DirectorDavid Leitch
CastRyan ReynoldsJosh BrolinMorena BaccarinJulian DennisonZazie BeetzT.J. MillerBrianna HildebrandJack KesyStefan Kapičič
1. Nice For What: Drake
2. God’s Plan: Drake
3. Meant To Be: Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line
4. Psycho: Post Malone & Ty Dolla $ign
5. The Middle: Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey
6. Freaky Friday: Lil Dicky & Chris Brown
7. I Like It: Cardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin
8. Chun-Li: Nicki Minaj
9. Look Alive: BlocBoy JB
10. Sad!: XXXTentacion
59May 2018 FACES
Choose Yourself! Author: James AltucherIn ‘Choose Yourself’, author James Altucher is giving a call to readers to give up traditional career paths that may neither lead to success, nor happiness in the present day. The book teaches how to choose yourself, with advice to take your life into your own hands by building good habits, creating own career and making that important decision to choose ‘yourself’.
The Alchemist Author: Paulo CoelhoThe Alchemist follows the journey of an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago, who believes his recurring dream is giving him a prophetic message. A fortune teller deciphers his dream as a prophecy of great treasure at the Egyptian Pyramids and the boy decides to travel to the Pyramids and along the way encounters a string of people, including a wise alchemist who teaches him the importance of realizing his true self.
BOOK REVIEW
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget
UPCOMING RELEASES
Solo: A Star Wars Story Alden Ehrenreich, Donald Glover, Emilia Clarke, Woody Harrelson, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Thandie Newton Through a series of daring escapades, deep within a dark and dangerous criminal underworld, Han Solo befriends his mighty future co-pilot Chewbacca and meets the notorious gambler Lando Calrissian, in a journey that will set the course of one of the Star Wars saga’s most unlikely heroes.
Now, Discover Your StrengthsAuthor: Marcus Buckingham & Donald O. CliftonThis book, based on a large Gallup study of 2 million people, shows 1) individuals how to cultivate their own career strengths and strengths, 2) managers how to capitalise the talents of their people, and 3) executives how to build an entire organization around the talents of each employee.
Show Dogs Alan Cumming, Stanley Tucci, Natasha Lyonne, Will Arnett, RuPaul, Gabriel Iglesias, Shaquille O’NealShow Dogs stars a charming cast of talking canine characters, including Max (voiced by Ludacris), a rugged lone-wolf Rottweiler NYPD police dog. Max and his human FBI partner (Will Arnett) are investigating the kidnapping of a baby panda by an underground network of illegal animal traders when they get a tip that the crime ring is planning to sell the panda at the prestigious Canini Invitational Dog Show. Max goes through a makeover to go undercover to thwart the plot.
OverboardAnna Faris, Eugenio Derbez, Eva Longoria, John Hannah Leonardo is a selfish, spoiled, rich playboy from Mexico’s richest family, and Kate is a working class single mom of three, hired to clean Leonardo’s luxury yacht. After unjustly firing Kate and refusing to pay her, Leonardo falls overboard when partying too hard and wakes up on the Oregon coast with amnesia. Kate shows up at the hospital and, to get payback, convinces Leonardo he is her husband and puts him to work… But, with Leonardo’s billionaire family on their trail and the possibility of his memory returning, how will things pan out?
FACES May 201860
Riddle Time
12345
Bites What’s the first bet that most people make in their lives?
How do you organize a space party?
Why do fish live in salt water?
Why didn’t the skeleton go to the dance?
What did the daddy chimney say to the baby chimney?
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books GadgetChill OutWEB WORLD
Riddle Time Answers ( April 2018 )
1Why did the baby strawberry cry? Answer: Because his parents were in a jam!
2What kind of egg did the bad chicken lay? Answer: A devilled egg!
3What is an astronaut’s favorite place on a computer?
Answer: The Space bar!
4Why does a hummingbird hum?
Answer: It doesn’t know the words!
5 What did one plate say to the other? Answer: Dinners on me
Inspiring KidsLog on to inspiremykids.com to experience the impact of inspirational activities and messages aimed at children of all walks of life
‘Kids can change the world. All they need is a little inspiration!’ reads the tagline of inspiremykids.com, one of the largest online communities focused on inspiring kids. As the website notes, it is a place where people can find inspiring, age-appropriate, real-life, authentic, stories, videos, books, quotes and projects to share with the children and teens in their lives; to help them become the best version of themselves and make the world a better place.
Kids can explore the site based on ‘Values’, ‘Topic’, ‘Subjects’ and ‘Age Range’; there are separate sections for Educators and Parents. It has
an ‘Inspiring Stories’ section that presents stories of kids who have become inspirations for others of their age, with their successes, despite adversities.
The objective of the website, as the creators state, is to help kids become individuals who value what matters most, ‘whether it is helping others, showing compassion, acting bravely, being a good citizen, or persisting in challenging times’. Stories, quotes and activities shared are chosen to spark in kids’ meaningful discussions that can help their perception of what it is to be a motivated, empathetic and a citizen of the world.
61May 2018 FACES
Bites
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget
Camera inspired by shrimps for underwater navigationUnderwater environment is set to become all the more vivid for explorers seeking to see it all through a camera that mimics the eyes of animals that inhabit the water. Researchers have developed an underwater GPS method by using polarisation information collected with a bio-inspired camera that is designed along the lines of mantis shrimp eyes. This camera, a variation of a polarisation imager named Mantis Cam, after the shrimp that inspired it, takes advantage of how light refracts, or bends, when it passes through the surface of water and bounces from particles and water molecules. It is expected to open new possibilities for undersea navigation and understanding of the migratory behaviour of marine animals.
Adhesives inspired by geckos Researchers in California have developed a robotic gripper that combines the adhesive properties of gecko toes and the adaptability of air-powered soft robots to help grasp a much wider variety of objects. With this adhesive, the robotic gripper can lift up to 45 pounds and has the ability to grasp objects in settings ranging from factory floors to the International Space Station. The gripper can also grasp objects in various positions and could grasp and manipulate rough, porous and grubby objects; it can also pick up pieces of large, cylindrical pipe.
GADGET NOTES
Bill was starving. He had driven all morning and was stuck in a small town, lost and hungry. When he saw a little restaurant
coming up on the side of the road, his happiness knew no bounds. He quickly parked his car and walked inside, planning to have a large meal. Bill noticed a blackboard on one side of the wall, with a sign written in white chalk that read: ‘Today’s Special
continued, “It says vegetable soup, BUT THERE ARE NO VEGETABLES! It says grilled vegetables, BUT THEY AREN’T GRILLED THEY ARE BAKED! And it says fried chicken, AND THE CHICKEN ISN’T FRIED!?”
The waiter, clearly not impressed by the show of anger and the city attitude, said in the most indifferent tone he could muster, “My dear man, that is exactly what makes it so special!”
- Vegetable Soup with Fried Chicken and Grilled Vegetables.’ Excited at this wholesome meal option, he called the waiter and said, “I will take the special”. The waiter took his order and returned a few minutes later with his plate.
He placed it on the table and walked away. Bill took one look at the spread on his table, and shouted at the waiter to return back. Fuming with anger, he screamed: “IS THIS THE SPECIAL!?” The waiter looked nonchalant and Bill
New Wi-Fi camera to keep an eye on the homeD-Link Mini HD Wi-Fi Camera will make it easier to keep an eye on your home. This 2-pack setup will enable you to check out what is going on at home or office in crisp HD video. The Camera can be set up easily in any premise or property. It comes along with integrated IR LEDs, which means you can check out captured video in up to 16 feet of complete darkness. It has a wide, 120-degree viewing angle, making even the smallest detail visible. The automatic push alert notification makes it a useful tool to make homes safe.
FACES May 201860
Riddle Time
12345
Bites What’s the first bet that most people make in their lives?
How do you organize a space party?
Why do fish live in salt water?
Why didn’t the skeleton go to the dance?
What did the daddy chimney say to the baby chimney?
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books GadgetChill OutWEB WORLD
Riddle Time Answers ( April 2018 )
1Why did the baby strawberry cry? Answer: Because his parents were in a jam!
2What kind of egg did the bad chicken lay? Answer: A devilled egg!
3What is an astronaut’s favorite place on a computer?
Answer: The Space bar!
4Why does a hummingbird hum?
Answer: It doesn’t know the words!
5 What did one plate say to the other? Answer: Dinners on me
Inspiring KidsLog on to inspiremykids.com to experience the impact of inspirational activities and messages aimed at children of all walks of life
‘Kids can change the world. All they need is a little inspiration!’ reads the tagline of inspiremykids.com, one of the largest online communities focused on inspiring kids. As the website notes, it is a place where people can find inspiring, age-appropriate, real-life, authentic, stories, videos, books, quotes and projects to share with the children and teens in their lives; to help them become the best version of themselves and make the world a better place.
Kids can explore the site based on ‘Values’, ‘Topic’, ‘Subjects’ and ‘Age Range’; there are separate sections for Educators and Parents. It has
an ‘Inspiring Stories’ section that presents stories of kids who have become inspirations for others of their age, with their successes, despite adversities.
The objective of the website, as the creators state, is to help kids become individuals who value what matters most, ‘whether it is helping others, showing compassion, acting bravely, being a good citizen, or persisting in challenging times’. Stories, quotes and activities shared are chosen to spark in kids’ meaningful discussions that can help their perception of what it is to be a motivated, empathetic and a citizen of the world.
61May 2018 FACES
Bites
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget
Camera inspired by shrimps for underwater navigationUnderwater environment is set to become all the more vivid for explorers seeking to see it all through a camera that mimics the eyes of animals that inhabit the water. Researchers have developed an underwater GPS method by using polarisation information collected with a bio-inspired camera that is designed along the lines of mantis shrimp eyes. This camera, a variation of a polarisation imager named Mantis Cam, after the shrimp that inspired it, takes advantage of how light refracts, or bends, when it passes through the surface of water and bounces from particles and water molecules. It is expected to open new possibilities for undersea navigation and understanding of the migratory behaviour of marine animals.
Adhesives inspired by geckos Researchers in California have developed a robotic gripper that combines the adhesive properties of gecko toes and the adaptability of air-powered soft robots to help grasp a much wider variety of objects. With this adhesive, the robotic gripper can lift up to 45 pounds and has the ability to grasp objects in settings ranging from factory floors to the International Space Station. The gripper can also grasp objects in various positions and could grasp and manipulate rough, porous and grubby objects; it can also pick up pieces of large, cylindrical pipe.
GADGET NOTES
Bill was starving. He had driven all morning and was stuck in a small town, lost and hungry. When he saw a little restaurant
coming up on the side of the road, his happiness knew no bounds. He quickly parked his car and walked inside, planning to have a large meal. Bill noticed a blackboard on one side of the wall, with a sign written in white chalk that read: ‘Today’s Special
continued, “It says vegetable soup, BUT THERE ARE NO VEGETABLES! It says grilled vegetables, BUT THEY AREN’T GRILLED THEY ARE BAKED! And it says fried chicken, AND THE CHICKEN ISN’T FRIED!?”
The waiter, clearly not impressed by the show of anger and the city attitude, said in the most indifferent tone he could muster, “My dear man, that is exactly what makes it so special!”
- Vegetable Soup with Fried Chicken and Grilled Vegetables.’ Excited at this wholesome meal option, he called the waiter and said, “I will take the special”. The waiter took his order and returned a few minutes later with his plate.
He placed it on the table and walked away. Bill took one look at the spread on his table, and shouted at the waiter to return back. Fuming with anger, he screamed: “IS THIS THE SPECIAL!?” The waiter looked nonchalant and Bill
New Wi-Fi camera to keep an eye on the homeD-Link Mini HD Wi-Fi Camera will make it easier to keep an eye on your home. This 2-pack setup will enable you to check out what is going on at home or office in crisp HD video. The Camera can be set up easily in any premise or property. It comes along with integrated IR LEDs, which means you can check out captured video in up to 16 feet of complete darkness. It has a wide, 120-degree viewing angle, making even the smallest detail visible. The automatic push alert notification makes it a useful tool to make homes safe.
FACES May 201862
Chill OutTaurus April 20 – May 21This month, get ready for some deep thoughts and transcendental feelings; you will soon experience a profound sense of understanding of your life. You will find that things pertaining to work or relationships are becoming clearer. Do let your friends know about your feelings. Remember, sharing your experiences with others will lead you to a more fulfilling life. The month also promises a lot of happiness, love and success – go grab your share!
Aries Time to be focused and stay in the present; it is the best you could do to yourself and everybody in your life. You will shortly have an opportunity to examine just what exactly you want and need from a person, a work relationship or a situation. Get ready to experience a stroke of luck, or may be more. Don’t fight your feelings; give in to your emotions.
Gemini Now is the time to bring things in your life into alignment with nature. Stay focused and seek clarity. A great idea will help bring things into alignment; it is up to you to put your idea into action. It will also help you understand where you are going, what you want and how you are going to get it.
Cancer There are several things happening in your life and you will have to deal with them head on. The time is not to dwell on issues – it is to deal with them as effectively as you can. You will soon see the proverbial silver lining in your dark clouds and realise the import of your wishes and desires.
Leo If your resolution for this season is getting fit and in shape, don’t dillydally. Get right on into the act and seek a membership in your neighbourhood gym or join a sports club. Now commit yourself to do it diligently and you will reach your target sooner than you thought. You are, indeed, in a productive phase – make the most of it!
Virgo You have heard the clichéd ‘all work and no play…’ saying, right? Now put that into practice. Combine your productive work with a dash of romance and make your life smoother and easier. Do not get into any critical diatribe against any colleague; that could lead to miscommunication everywhere. Indulge in some workout and stay calm at work and outside.
Libra You are, perhaps, experiencing a melancholic state. Don’t fight it. Pleasant memories of the past do help you make the most of your present. If you feel it is bringing up memories that are painful, take a long walk in the park or go watch a sunrise. It will clear your thoughts and help you get attuned to the beautiful present.
Scorpio It is typical of you, Scorpio, to plan and keep planning more. That, of course, impresses everyone around you, including you, but you need to action them. Now! Keep at it and see how you can influence people around you with your positivity. Your powers of intuition will come into play in some major project you are working on with your partner.
FUTURESCOPE
Will Arnett(May 4, 1970)William Emerson Arnett is a Canadian-American actor, voice actor and comedian. He is best known for his role as George Oscar ‘Gob’ Bluth II in the Fox/Netflix series ‘Arrested Development’. He made appearances in films such as ‘Blades of Glory’, ‘Hot Rod’ and ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’. A prolific voice actor, he has had big roles in films including ‘Ratatouille’, ‘Monsters vs. Aliens’, ‘Despicable Me’, ‘The Nut Job’ and ‘Batman’, in The Lego Movie franchise.
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget
May 2018Sagittarius If you are feeling tempted to rush in and shop for extravagant items that are not classified essential, stop right there. You need to save all the money you have for the plans you have been nurturing. Stay focused on your workout programme; a little retrospection will help to see if you are on track. Do take time to celebrate life…
Capricorn All that you had to do to find out how awesome all your plans are, was to execute them, and lo! Enjoy your moment of success; you deserve it completely. Now turn your focus, rather, your energy, towards creative pursuits. You will be surprised by your immense potentials. In all these ventures, however, do not forget to follow the healthy diet you have been on.
Aquarius Stay low if you do not want to get involved in the conflict between colleagues at work. Keep your focus on yourself and that also means keeping your wallet under control. You might encounter occasions where overspending might seem to be the rule than an exception. Keep stock of your finances and do not get distracted by trivial pursuits.
Pisces Piscean, this is the time to lend a helping hand. It is the ‘pay it forward’ time. Be grateful for all the gifts in your life and feel the joys of sharing it with others. Of course, this will make you feel great about everything and it will reflect on the way you take care of yourself and treat yourself with the respect you deserve.
63May 2018 FACES
Tarantula topping on burgersWould you ever tuck into a burger topped with a tarantula? Yuck, you said? Well, a burger joint in North Carolina has created a twist by topping
their burgers with tarantula. As a part of its ‘Exotic Meat Month’ celebration, the restaurant is featuring burgers made with everything from alligator to iguana, python, bison, turtle and insects. However, its tarantula challenge has become a major attraction. Priced at $30, the 100 percent North Carolina pasture-raised beef burger is topped with Gruyère cheese, chili sauce and an oven-roasted
tarantula. There is a reward for customers who finish it… A T-shirt to immortalise tarantula!
Basra’s cat hotelLife as a cat is grand in Iraq. Away from the battlegrounds, cat-lovers in Basra have found a haven for their favourite pets. It is a venture from veterinary student Ahmed Taher Maki, who has turned his home into Iraq’s prime cat hotel. Cat guests need to spend 5,000 Iraqi dinars ($4.20) for a night; longer stays get 50 percent off on that rate. For that price, the cats get to enjoy beds, regular meals, health checkups and a mini playground
Movies Books Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget
WEIRD NEWS
A full-scale Airbus replicaA Chinese aviation buff, who always wanted to own an aircraft, has gone ahead and built an Airbus. It is a full-scale replica of an Airbus A320 jet. Zhu Yue, the aviation buff who worked as a welder and an auto mechanic, spent months studying plane models and technical drawings, before he started building a homemade version, a year ago, with his friends. He now plans to turn the replica into an aviation-themed restaurant. The Airbus is 37.8 meters long with a wingspan of 36 meters and height of 12 meters; it features model engine turbines that can rotate and a simulation cockpit.
Gluttony, thy name is sinWith fitness gaining so much global attention, gluttony, today, is seen as a health condition than a way of life. But things were different in early times when emperors lived by gluttony…l Feasting was such a big part of Roman society that Augustus tried to control public and private gluttony by enforcing severe laws against extravagant menus.l Emperor Claudius was very fond of mushrooms, but died of poisoning.l For Emperor Nero, mushrooms were the relish of the gods. He sat at the dining table from midday to midnight with the most monstrous of spread before him.l Emperor Domitian got his workers to create a utensil big enough to cook a huge turbot without cutting it into pieces. He even had potters accompany him when he went to war. l Julius Caesar’s meals were said to equal the revenues of several provinces during feasts and special occasions. l Emperor Vitellius ate four meals a day, which never cost less than ten thousand crowns.l Emperor Geta had meats served up to him in alphabetical order. (Source: http://www.brainypedia.com/gluttony/)
FACES May 201862
Chill OutTaurus April 20 – May 21This month, get ready for some deep thoughts and transcendental feelings; you will soon experience a profound sense of understanding of your life. You will find that things pertaining to work or relationships are becoming clearer. Do let your friends know about your feelings. Remember, sharing your experiences with others will lead you to a more fulfilling life. The month also promises a lot of happiness, love and success – go grab your share!
Aries Time to be focused and stay in the present; it is the best you could do to yourself and everybody in your life. You will shortly have an opportunity to examine just what exactly you want and need from a person, a work relationship or a situation. Get ready to experience a stroke of luck, or may be more. Don’t fight your feelings; give in to your emotions.
Gemini Now is the time to bring things in your life into alignment with nature. Stay focused and seek clarity. A great idea will help bring things into alignment; it is up to you to put your idea into action. It will also help you understand where you are going, what you want and how you are going to get it.
Cancer There are several things happening in your life and you will have to deal with them head on. The time is not to dwell on issues – it is to deal with them as effectively as you can. You will soon see the proverbial silver lining in your dark clouds and realise the import of your wishes and desires.
Leo If your resolution for this season is getting fit and in shape, don’t dillydally. Get right on into the act and seek a membership in your neighbourhood gym or join a sports club. Now commit yourself to do it diligently and you will reach your target sooner than you thought. You are, indeed, in a productive phase – make the most of it!
Virgo You have heard the clichéd ‘all work and no play…’ saying, right? Now put that into practice. Combine your productive work with a dash of romance and make your life smoother and easier. Do not get into any critical diatribe against any colleague; that could lead to miscommunication everywhere. Indulge in some workout and stay calm at work and outside.
Libra You are, perhaps, experiencing a melancholic state. Don’t fight it. Pleasant memories of the past do help you make the most of your present. If you feel it is bringing up memories that are painful, take a long walk in the park or go watch a sunrise. It will clear your thoughts and help you get attuned to the beautiful present.
Scorpio It is typical of you, Scorpio, to plan and keep planning more. That, of course, impresses everyone around you, including you, but you need to action them. Now! Keep at it and see how you can influence people around you with your positivity. Your powers of intuition will come into play in some major project you are working on with your partner.
FUTURESCOPE
Will Arnett(May 4, 1970)William Emerson Arnett is a Canadian-American actor, voice actor and comedian. He is best known for his role as George Oscar ‘Gob’ Bluth II in the Fox/Netflix series ‘Arrested Development’. He made appearances in films such as ‘Blades of Glory’, ‘Hot Rod’ and ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’. A prolific voice actor, he has had big roles in films including ‘Ratatouille’, ‘Monsters vs. Aliens’, ‘Despicable Me’, ‘The Nut Job’ and ‘Batman’, in The Lego Movie franchise.
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May 2018Sagittarius If you are feeling tempted to rush in and shop for extravagant items that are not classified essential, stop right there. You need to save all the money you have for the plans you have been nurturing. Stay focused on your workout programme; a little retrospection will help to see if you are on track. Do take time to celebrate life…
Capricorn All that you had to do to find out how awesome all your plans are, was to execute them, and lo! Enjoy your moment of success; you deserve it completely. Now turn your focus, rather, your energy, towards creative pursuits. You will be surprised by your immense potentials. In all these ventures, however, do not forget to follow the healthy diet you have been on.
Aquarius Stay low if you do not want to get involved in the conflict between colleagues at work. Keep your focus on yourself and that also means keeping your wallet under control. You might encounter occasions where overspending might seem to be the rule than an exception. Keep stock of your finances and do not get distracted by trivial pursuits.
Pisces Piscean, this is the time to lend a helping hand. It is the ‘pay it forward’ time. Be grateful for all the gifts in your life and feel the joys of sharing it with others. Of course, this will make you feel great about everything and it will reflect on the way you take care of yourself and treat yourself with the respect you deserve.
63May 2018 FACES
Tarantula topping on burgersWould you ever tuck into a burger topped with a tarantula? Yuck, you said? Well, a burger joint in North Carolina has created a twist by topping
their burgers with tarantula. As a part of its ‘Exotic Meat Month’ celebration, the restaurant is featuring burgers made with everything from alligator to iguana, python, bison, turtle and insects. However, its tarantula challenge has become a major attraction. Priced at $30, the 100 percent North Carolina pasture-raised beef burger is topped with Gruyère cheese, chili sauce and an oven-roasted
tarantula. There is a reward for customers who finish it… A T-shirt to immortalise tarantula!
Basra’s cat hotelLife as a cat is grand in Iraq. Away from the battlegrounds, cat-lovers in Basra have found a haven for their favourite pets. It is a venture from veterinary student Ahmed Taher Maki, who has turned his home into Iraq’s prime cat hotel. Cat guests need to spend 5,000 Iraqi dinars ($4.20) for a night; longer stays get 50 percent off on that rate. For that price, the cats get to enjoy beds, regular meals, health checkups and a mini playground
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WEIRD NEWS
A full-scale Airbus replicaA Chinese aviation buff, who always wanted to own an aircraft, has gone ahead and built an Airbus. It is a full-scale replica of an Airbus A320 jet. Zhu Yue, the aviation buff who worked as a welder and an auto mechanic, spent months studying plane models and technical drawings, before he started building a homemade version, a year ago, with his friends. He now plans to turn the replica into an aviation-themed restaurant. The Airbus is 37.8 meters long with a wingspan of 36 meters and height of 12 meters; it features model engine turbines that can rotate and a simulation cockpit.
Gluttony, thy name is sinWith fitness gaining so much global attention, gluttony, today, is seen as a health condition than a way of life. But things were different in early times when emperors lived by gluttony…l Feasting was such a big part of Roman society that Augustus tried to control public and private gluttony by enforcing severe laws against extravagant menus.l Emperor Claudius was very fond of mushrooms, but died of poisoning.l For Emperor Nero, mushrooms were the relish of the gods. He sat at the dining table from midday to midnight with the most monstrous of spread before him.l Emperor Domitian got his workers to create a utensil big enough to cook a huge turbot without cutting it into pieces. He even had potters accompany him when he went to war. l Julius Caesar’s meals were said to equal the revenues of several provinces during feasts and special occasions. l Emperor Vitellius ate four meals a day, which never cost less than ten thousand crowns.l Emperor Geta had meats served up to him in alphabetical order. (Source: http://www.brainypedia.com/gluttony/)
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