February 2011 your Copy To Keep

The inFlighT magazine oF oman air

healthA brisk walk to longer life

event horizonGlobal gig guide

it’s oman Award-winning scuba pics

destinationsHong Kong, Oriental gemdestinationsHong Kong, Oriental gem

it’s oman Award-winning scuba pics

healthA brisk walk to longer life

event horizonGlobal gig guide

The rapid development of Oman since His Majesty Sultan Qaboos came to the throne 40 years ago has been remarkable for many reasons. Not least among these is the way in which modern services and infrastructure have been introduced whilst the richness of Oman’s culture and traditions has been preserved.

The Muscat Festival offers a month-long window on the many diverse and often surprising expressions of the Sultanate’s culture. Music, dance, visual art, cuisine and a whole range of other elements of Omani life are celebrated throughout the capital city and I am delighted that we are able to bring you, in our latest issue of Wings of Oman, an insight into this unique Arabian experience.

Whilst the Muscat Festival conjures up a feast of colourful and arresting pictures, Oman offers much more by way of breath-taking imagery.

With around 3 000 kilometres of pristine coastline, Oman’s shore line and marine life remain truly wondrous. Globe-trotting Malaysian photographer Kay-Burn Lim’s astonishing underwater shots offer a unique glimpse of life in the oceans around Oman and the practical advice he offers in this issue of Wings of Oman will, I am sure, prove both invaluable and inspiring for anyone who loves taking pictures.

Oman Air now flies from Muscat to 41 destinations around the globe and our partnerships with other airlines mean that our customers can travel even further afield. The code share agreement we announced last year with Malaysian Airways allows Oman Air’s passengers to book to a number of destinations in South East Asia, including one of the world’s great cities, Hong Kong. This teeming metropolis, long an advertisement for global business, entrepreneurship and fast-paced living, is the focus of our Destination feature this month and I am sure that, once you have read the article, you will be eager to see the city for yourself.

In contrast to the frenetic pace offered by Hong Kong, our Health and Beauty article this month focuses on walking, an activity whose health-giving benefits are often overlooked. Regular walkers are less prone to many ailments. They may even be adding years to their lives, so take a stroll through our how-to guide and find out how you can make the most of an activity that many of us take for granted.

In the meantime, I would like to thank you for choosing Oman Air. I hope you enjoy your flight and we hope to welcome you back soon.

Peter Hill Chief Executive Officer

Marhaba

ContentsFestival focus Catch some culture at the Muscat Festival, or damage the wallet at the Dubai Shopping Festival.

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Pearl of the OrientHome to some of the richest people on the planet and backdrop to countless movies, Hong Kong is a shimmering jewel that is guaranteed to take your breath away.

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A sleight headache?Do not be taken in by these global tourist scams.

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Take it in your stride

The health benefits of doing what humans are

designed to do - walk.

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Eyes downWings of Oman goes diving off the coast of Muscat with award-winning, globe-trotting underwater photographer Kay-Burn Lim.

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ReviewsA selection of some fab reads and latest movies on circuit this month.

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World ViewLife in all its forms on the third rock from the sun.

Tourism and Entertainment Where to visit, how to find the best bargains and where to stay.

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36Contents

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SportsBook your place

in front of the big screen for these sporting dates!

Oman Air’s inflight magazine is issued by:Corporate Communications & Media Department - Oman AirP.O. Box 58, Muscat International Airport, Postal Code 111, Sultanate of OmanTel: +968 24519616, Fax: +968 24510771E-mail: wings@omanair.com Website: www.omanair.com

For advertising enquiries contact the publisher:National Publishing & Advertising LLCP.O. Box 3112, P.C. 112, RuwiMuscat, Sultanate of OmanTel: +968 24793098, Fax: +968 24708445Email: advertising@npaoman.com

EditorialManaging Editor

Craig Bishopcraig@npaoman.com

Designers

Justin Das

Mohammed Iqbal

MarketingMedia Sales Director

Ashish Chaturvediashish@npaoman.com

Media Sales Executive

Ravan Jaafarravan@npaoman.com

The publisher regrets that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

6 Festivals

Muscat FestivalUntil February 24There are some new additions this year to the programme which includes exhibitions of artisans at work, an arts and crafts bazaar, laser shows, fun fairs, evening concerts, lecture circuits, an Oman Fashion Week, an Oman Food Festival and two major sporting events: the second Tour of Oman cycle race (Feb 15-20) and the start of the Extreme Sailing Series™. The locations for the main Festival activities are Qurum Natural Park and Nassem Gardens. The event also attracts dance and acrobatic acts from other countries and includes fireworks and shopping stalls, mainly from the subcontinent and the Far East. As in previous years, the festival welcomes drama groups, singers and famous bands from the region. www.muscat-festival.com

Shopping DubaiUntil February 20Millions of bargain hunters are getting ready to pour into the City of Superlatives for the world’s biggest, annual, bling-crazy shopping frenzy. As well as millions of prizes in daily draws, tourists can enjoy tax-free shopping and big discounts on a wide array of items, from perfume to electronic gadgetry and designer brands to scuba gear! Special events such as business conventions, seminars, exhibitions and book fairs provide welcome diversion when you are sick of hammering your wallet! The 2011 Dubai Shopping Festival is expected to give a much-needed boost to the local and regional tourism industry and retail sector. www.dubaishoppingfestival.com

The Big SCUBA ShowWHERE: LondonWHEN: February 19-20WHAT: The Big Scuba Show 2011 in London’s Olympia National Hall has everything you need to get diving! Check out the latest products, equipment, hot destinations and talk to expert divers - ideal for everyone with an interest in the underwater world. Nearest Underground Stations: Kensington (Olympia).www.thebigscubashow.com

Arab Art Expo WHERE: CairoWHEN: Until February 12WHAT: Since its inception in 1984, the Cairo Biennale has been considered by experts as one of the most important cultural events in the Middle East. Conceived and initially designed to explore contemporary art in the Arab world, the concepts of the successive artistic directors expanded the interest to the global international arena. The biennale is produced by the fine arts sector of the Egyptian Ministry of Culture. The success in sustaining the event had a direct impact on the contemporary art practices arising from Egypt as well as from the Middle East region in the past two decades. It showcases international artists at venues like the Pyramids at Giza. www.cairobiennale.gov.eg

Let Oman Air fly you to these global events this month

8 event Horizon

Bride Show WHERE: Abu DhabiWHEN: February 2-5WHAT:A visit to the Bride Show Abu Dhabi is an absolute must for all those planning their perfect wedding. Whether you are planning a traditional wedding or you are a modern bride seeking a cutting-edge and contemporary affair, with over 300 wedding experts and inspirational features, the Bride Show Abu Dhabi is the show for you. It is a unique and glamorous wedding shopping experience with thousands of ideas to plan your perfect day. Fashionistas can pay a visit for the latest in haute couture, evening wear, abayas & sheilas, fashion accessories and beauty products.www.thebrideshow.com

Valentine’s DayWHERE: ParisWHEN: February 14WHAT: It’s only happening for one day, but it is the most romantic day of the year after all! If you do happen to be in Paris with your loved one, the city offers a thousand ways to say, “Je t’aime.” Take your Valentine to Montmartre’s Wall of Love to read declarations in 300 languages, then amble through the romantic Bois de Boulogne.

10 international Destination

P e a r l o f t h e O r i e n tHome to some of the richest people on the planet and backdrop to countless movies, Hong Kong is a shimmering jewel that is guaranteed to take your breath awayA decent cup of tea is what enabled the troops of the British Empire to continue their march of imperialism across much of the globe. Similar words have been spoken by several historians and comedians, and it is perhaps fitting that in a city that owes so much to both Chinese and British influences, that there is one of the best views anywhere to have a cup of tea, and maybe

a dim sum dumpling. Where is this fabled spot? None other than Victoria Peak, which boasts quite sublime early morning views of the city below and the harbour.

Right, so if you are in Hong Kong for business or a short stay, and once you have had your early morning cup of tea, what can you squeeze into your trip? Many people associate great shopping with Hong Kong, and certainly the hundreds of local malls and street markets offer bargains on everything from designer jeans to jade necklaces and electronic gadgets.

But behind the façade of fast-paced commercialism lies another world where old meets new at every corner. Perhaps the best way to understand the city is to walk the streets.

Culture and heritage are what sets Hong Kong apart from the rest of Asia – and the world. With more than 100 years of colonial history and a largely Chinese population, Hong Kong is a unique fusion of Western and Eastern cultures where the old and the new live side by side. Its incense-filled temples, colonial buildings and glass-and-steel skyscrapers, along with its ancient traditions and lively festivals, have made Hong Kong a living culture experience.

Many fascinating Chinese and colonial heritage sites still exist in Hong Kong, reflecting more than 5 000 years of Chinese and more than 100 years of British colonial heritage, and are easily

accessible on Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories and the Outlying Islands.

For a city that is so densely populated, it is remarkable how much effort and care has been put into greening up the city. There are green spaces bursting with trees and plants growing from the most unlikely areas and on the tiniest patches of land, and entry to most areas is free.

It is difficult to compare Hong Kong to any other city. Sometimes it feels as if you are in the middle of New York, what with the towering skyscrapers, subways, taxis and deli’s. But turn the corner and it feels like Central London. If the fast-pace gets too much, head for the Peak Tram Terminus which will whizz you out of the centre and through the greenery of the botanical gardens.

For a city that is so densely populated, it is remarkable how much effort and care

has been put into greening up the city

InternatIonal DestInatIon 11

Some of the attractions:• The Peak is one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong.

Looking down from you will be amazed by the spectacular view of the world- famous Victoria Harbour.

• Giant Buddha at Lantau Island beside the Po Lin Monastery, is the world’s tallest, outdoor, seated bronze Buddha.

• Ocean Park at the southern part of Hong Kong Island, provides an exciting mix of entertainment, education and conservation facilities.

• Golden Bauhinia Square outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on the Wan Chai waterfront marks the unification of Hong Kong with the motherland. The “Forever Blooming Bauhinia” Sculpture (Golden Bauhinia) at the Square is a gift from

the Central Government. There is also the flag-raising ceremony held every morning.

• Repulse Bay at the southern part of Hong Kong Island, famous for its wide and wave-lapped beach, is popular with locals and visitors alike.

12 InternatIonal DestInatIon

• Stanley Market & Murray House. Stanley Market is a popular market town that offers crisp sea air and bargain buys. Murray House is a restored three-storey colonial building situated at the Stanley seaside.

• A Symphony of Lights, awarded the world’s largest permanent light and sound show by Guinness World Records, staged on both sides of the Victoria Harbour, starting at 8pm every night.

• Avenue of Stars, located on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, is not only a salute to eminent Hong Kong film workers for their devoted

contribution to local and world theatres, but also one of the ideal vantage points for visitors to appreciate the previously mentioned Symphony of Lights.

• Ngong Ping 360 comprises the 5.7km Ngong Ping Skyrail, a 25-minute cable car ride which offers a spectacular view of the beautiful landscape of Lantau Island, and the cultural and religious-themed Ngong Ping Village.

14 InternatIonal DestInatIon

BasicsHello : Neih houHow are you? : Neih hou ma?What is your name? : Néih dím chìngfù aYes : HaiNo : MhaiOkay : Gei houHow much? : Nīgo géidō chín a?Please : ChengWelcome : MgoiThank you : Dojeh/ M goi saExcuse me : Cheng mahnGood morning : JousahnGoodbye : Joigin

NumBers0 : Leng1 : Yat2 : Yee3 : Sahm4 : Sei5 : Ng

Learn Cantonese Country FactsOman Air code-shared Malaysia Airlines flies twice weekly between Muscat and Hong Kong.Visa requirements: Nationals of the US, Europe, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Hong Kong for stays of 90 days, six months for UK nationals. You will need six months validity on your passport. Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

Languages spoken: English and Cantonese are Hong Kong’s two official languages. Cantonese is the most commonly spoken language, though English is the language of the business and service industries.

Currency: The Hong Kong dollar is divided into 100 cents.

6 : Yuk

7 : Tchut

8 : Baht

9 : Gow

10 : Sup

16 InternatIonal DestInatIon

EyesdownWings of Oman dives into the beautiful world of award-winning, globe-trotting scuba photographer Kay-Burn Lim, who was in Oman recently

Nudibranc (Bhandar Khayran)

Born in Singapore to Malaysian parents, Kay-Burn Lim bought his first camera in late 2006. He had no idea about F-stops, shutter speeds and lens requirements. His first camera was a Sony Alpha A100 and it didn’t take long to realise he wanted more.

Eyesdown

18 It’s Oman

In February of 2007 while in Miami, he decided to get dive certified while on vacation. It was something he never looked back on. By May of 2008, on a cruise in the Caribbean, Kay began using a DSLR underwater rig for the first time. The transition was costly and took a massive amount of research. In the end, he sold all his Sony gear and bought a Nikon D300 which he still use. It is housed in a Sea & Sea housing with dual YS-110a strobes/flashes. Kay says he now feels naked if he dives without it!”For Kay, there is no greater satisfaction than showing people the beauty our oceans have to offer, especially to those who don’t or can’t dive. He adds that once a person starts needing to do the things they love for the money, it no longer becomes fun.”

Cuttlefish (Bhandar Khayran)

Bleny (Jissa Point) Honeycomb moral eel (Dimanyat Islands)

Scorpion Fish (Jissa Point)

It’s oman 19

Kim recently won first place in the first ever inaugural dive photo competition organised by the president’s office of Timor Leste. He has also been featured in Scuba Diver magazine and was photographer of the month for June 2010 in Photomalaysia.com. His advice to would-be photographers is do not be afraid to tweak your shot on the computer. The photo itself has to be grabbing in the first place. This is where the artist in every photographer comes into play.Try to look for shots that are out of the ordinary. Dive photography is one such example. Don’t be afraid to ask or try. Be open to critique. Look to emulate great photos you have seen. A good photographer will capture the moment in all it’s essence and impart those same feelings to its viewers via the image itself. Honeycomb moral eel (Dimanyat Islands)

Green Turtle (Dimanyat Islands)

Sea Horse (Musandam)

20 It’s oman

Regular walkers are less prone to cancer, heart disease, strokes and diabetes and they appear to live longer too. Here’s how to do it properly

Take it in your strideThink about it. The human body is designed to walk. Medical research suggests that taking a 30-minute stroll each day can add years to your life. The Washington Post did the maths - 30 minutes a day amounts

(Image sources: Photolibrary; iStockphoto)

to a total of 49 days over 12 years. That’s a small price to pay to add around two years to your life span, not to mention the added benefits of reduced weight!

It sounds silly giving advice on how to walk properly, but many people develop bad walking habits, including posture and motion.

22 HealtH & Beauty

in your strideGet into your stride Your body should be straight and relaxed while you walk. Make sure your lower back is flat without any tilting forwards or backwards, as this can strain your waist.

Heads up As you walk, pick a distant object and focus on that. This should ensure that your head remains in a neutral position looking forward down the road. Do not let your head sag forwards and your chin drop, as this will cause stress in your neck and shoulders and can lead to cramps.

All in the hips Ever watch a ballroom dancer? Their centre of energy is low down over their hips. They let their hips guide the direction of their legs. The same is true for walking. Visualise your hips pulling you down the road and watch for sideways hip motion, as this will throw your centre of balance and waste energy.

Pace yourself In one sense, this means walk at a steady rate, but it is also important not to overeach with your feet as this will over-balance you. Point your toes straight ahead and walk like a model on a catwalk with each step landing in a straight line. Some people’s foot placement will naturally point out or in because of the way they are built. This is OK, too. By using their hips properly, their foot falls will occur in a straight line, but their feet will not be parallel.

Arm action Different walkers find different positions for their arms. Your elbows should be bent 45 and 90 degrees with your muscles relaxed. Let your arm swing naturally in a short arc backwards and forwards, not side to side. Your hands should move from just behind your hip at waist level to the height of your breastbone. Relax your shoulders and away you go!

Blowing hot and cold Before you start walking, it is important to do some simple stretching exercises, focusing on your hips, hamstrings, calves and ankles to make sure that your body is sufficiently ready to start exercise. Spend at least 10 minutes before each walk.

Conversely, it is important to warm down after your exercise. Walk slightly slower for the last five minutes of your exercise, and then repeat the same exercises you did to warm up.

Benefits of walking • On average, every 20 minutes of walking can extend your life

by around two minutes. • Walking an extra 20 minutes each day will burn off seven

pounds of body fat per year.• To burn off one boiled sweet, you need to walk the full

length of a football field. • Daily walking improves the efficiency of your heart

and lungs.• Burns body fat.• Raises your metabolism so you are burning calories faster,

even while you rest.• Increases your energy.• Helps relieve stress.

HealtH & Beauty 23

• Slows ageing.• Reduces levels of cholesterol in your blood.• Lowers high blood pressure.• Helps control and prevent diabetes.• Reduces risk of some forms of cancer including colorectal, prostrate,

and breast.• Aids rehabilitation from heart attack and stroke.• Helps promote restful sleep.• Strengthens your bones and reduces bone density loss in older women.

• Reduces stiffness in your joints due to inactivity or arthritis.

• Relieves most cases of chronic backache.

• Improves flexibility.

In fact, the list of health benefits from regular walking is endless. It’s what humans are designed to do, and remember, walking puts less stress on your joints. What are you waiting for?

24 HealtH & Beauty

A survey of international business travellers has revealed these global scams that put the “con” back into confusion

26 BusIness

A sleightheadache

The tourism website VirtualTourist.com has come up with a list of the top 10 tactics thieves use to part travellers from their cash or assets. The ruses are not elaborate, and that is what makes them so effective, especially when you consider how distracted most businessfolk abroad are in the first place. Although the website pinpointed the countries where these crimes occur most often, the same scams could be used anywhere.

(Image source: Photolibrary)

Fool’s Gold: If you’re walking the streets of any capital city, and someone appears to have found a gold ring at your feet, congratulate them and keep on walking. The ring is a plant and the person who pretends to have found it will use just about any sob story to get you to buy it off them.

Automatic Theft Machine: Using X-ray film, thieves construct a pocket that slips into the card slot of an ATM, holding it hostage. A helpful and observant bystander then miraculously

appears to suggest that typing in a PIN backwards will release the card. Unfortunately, when the bystander later retrieves the pocket, the victim’s money will be released as well.

At Your Service: The bottom line with this scam is that room service charges should always go on the credit card the hotel already has on file. If the waiter or waitress who delivers your food demands cash or a card, the egg on your plate is soon going to end up on your face.

BusIness 27

Clean sweep: Should someone try to help wipe non-existent tomato sauce, mustard or bird droppings from the back of your shirt, chances are that’s not all they’re wiping off you. Teams working in pairs use this technique to rob distracted, and disgusted, victims. Decline their assistance and move quickly on.

Customer Surprise: Another in the seemingly endless array of ATM scams, this one involves a false “Customer Service” phone number posted on a card-swallowing machine. When the victim calls it, he or she is asked for the card’s PIN number, hotel and contact information, and assured the card will be returned soon after.

The Exchange Game: Street scammers offer tourists incredible exchange rates provided the transaction takes place in a secluded cafe. At the cafe, the money is counted out on top of the table, but rolled up into a rubber band under it; the explanation being that police may be watching. Needless to say, the tourists later discover a large discrepancy between the amount counted and the amount given.

Front Desk Phonies: In this simple but highly destructive scam, sleepy, unsuspecting hotel guests are awakened by very early morning or very late night calls from the front desk asking for credit card information. It’s not until much later when they realize that “front desk” was actually a front for a con.

Funny Money: Although efforts are being made to solve this problem, some countries have a significant amount of fake currency in circulation and you don’t want it to end up in your hands. Unless you have a counterfeit nte detector, refuse high denomination notes, or accept them only from banks.

28 BusIness

Militarychic

The look this season seems to be returning to exploring the ultra-feminine side to fashion, exploring the territory of softer materials and shapes. Outerwear is worn, wrapped and asymmetric, with aviators and military hybrid jackets piloting

the range. Brushed cotton parkas and new style macs are lightweight

and relaxed with authentic finishes and quirky details. Skirts are fishtail volumised

with tucking and drapery details throughout while trousers are drop-crotch or culotte-

style. Cocoon styles and frivolous detailing add glamour.

www.firetrap.com

Urban chicEasy-to-wear and effortlessly cool clothing creates a carefree, spontaneous, easy and feminine mood, with a slightly raw twist. A palette of neutrals is mixed with stronger tones of black, blues and military greens. Let loose the adventurous spirit of a rock-and-roll road trip. Styles have been designed with images of sun-kissed days on a beach and cool nights filled with campfires, outdoor parties and music festivals in mind. Ideal for trouble-free travellers, clothes are pared down to ultra-cool essentials that take you from day to night and everything else in between. www.shop.obakki.com.

Glad ragsBe the brightest fashion state-ment on the street this season with the “look-at-me” dresses. Bright, flowery prints create an atmosphere of fun and frivolity and are the perfect antidote to the winter blues. There’s something about floral patterns that reminds you of a simpler time where you didn’t have worries and everything was picture perfect! Mix and match with a bright flowery scarf, but keep it simple. Too much and you end up looking like a bowl of pot pourri!www.apricotonline.co.uk

30 FasHIOn & trends

Zen blingJewellery for men that has a meaning beyond its functional use. Look for hints of ancient Japanese philosophy of wabi sabi: as the silence between notes in music is vital, so does the harmony between the created form and the empty space within magnify the intensity of expression. Serene beauty requires discipline, not ostensible splendour – or even perfection. By leaving small marks of the work process of bending, forming and joining, the hand-made quality of crafting remains visible as a humble recognition of our human flaws and imperfections. www.utedecker.com

Men are wearing less jewellery, and keeping it understated. That doesn’t mean you have to be afraid of a bit of bling. Today’s trend in men’s jewellery is simple and masculine. Gold is ever popular, but choose accessories that don’t make too big a splash. You do not really need to sport a “statement” piece that jumps out. It’s more about a great watch, strong belt buckle, a thick chain bracelet or smart cuff links.

32 FasHIon & trenDs

Dance beatTwo men perform the acrobatic Afro-Brazilian martial art of capuera on a beach in Rio de Janeiro. Capuera is performed as a form of dance to music and was devised by Africans mixing the many fighting styles from different tribes. (Photo: Christoph Wilhelm/Photolibrary.com)

Mad spinA Verreaux’s Sifaka appears to be dancing across the forest floor in Berenty Private Reserve, southern Madagascar. A British photographer, Nick Garbutt, has completed an epic 20-year foray into the world’s most unique eco-system, described as the ‘Noah’s Arc’ of diversity. (Photo: Nick Garbutt/Barcroft Media/Getty Images)

Care to dance?It may look like these two polar bears are having a chinwag, but this erect posture is a prelude to a contest to establish territorial supremacy, in the frozen wasteland of northern Canada. (Photo: Ingram Publishing)

34 WOrld VIeW

Cat’s eyesA mountain lioness and her cub are silhouetted against the evening sky on a rock. The increasingly endangered species, also known as cougars, are native to the Americas, extending from Yukon in Canada to the southern Andes of South America. (Photo: Michael Sewell/Photolibrary)

Military legacyThe national Guard march in the high-kicking Goose Step in perfect unison during the changing of the guard outside the Presidency Building in Sofia, Serbia. (Photo: Eye Ubiquitous/Photolibrary).

Light fantasticPeople watching the nothern lights, or Aurora Borealis, folding in the sky above Chena Hot Springs, Alaska. The eerie dislay is caused by the collision of charged particles directed by the Earth’s magnetic field and results in fantastic visual patterns in the night sky. (Photo: Yvette Cardozo /Photolibrary)

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MotorcrossQatar International Rally, February 3-5The event has been the traditional opening round of the series for several years and slick organisation by the Doha-based Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation has given the event the reputation as the leading round of the prestigious regional rally series. The championship was dominated by Qatar drivers in 2010 and recently saw Misfer Al-Marri crowned as regional champion for the first time.

RunningHong Kong Marathon, February 20The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon is a unique world-class athletic event that showcases many of Hong Kong’s landmarks - old and new, natural and man-made - as it passes through the different territories. The total prize money is $150 000. Runners assemble on Nathan Road in Kowloon’s Tsim Sha Tsui area. They head northwest into the New Territories before crossing two bridges - Stonecutters Bridge on to Tsing Yi and then Tsing Ma Bridge towards Lantau Island, before doubling back to return to the mainland. The runners then run through the Western Harbour Tunnel and finish at Victoria Park.

GolfThe Dubai Desert Classic, February 7-13Held at the Emirates Golf Club, the first grass golf course in the Middle East, the lush fairways are in stark contrast to the surrounding desert terrain, which provides the course with many natural hazards. The PGA European Tour and its American counterpart, the PGA Tour, are the richest and most celebrated golfing competitions in the world. For the European stars on the tour there is more at stake than pure financial reward: the top 10 players are automatically selected for the European Team to play against the US in the Ryder Cup. Along with winning one of the majors, competing in this competition is the pinnacle of a golfer’s career.

36 spOrts

38 reVIeWs

UnknownDirector: Juame Collet-SerraStars: Liam Neeson, January Jones, Diane Kruger, Aidan QuinnStudio: Warner Bros. PicturesReleasing: February 18, 2011Dr Martin Harris (Neeson) awakens after a car accident in Berlin to discover that his wife ( Jones) suddenly does not recognise him and another man (Quinn) has assumed his identity. Ignored by disbelieving authorities and hunted by mysterious assassins, he finds himself alone, tired and on the run. Aided by an unlikely ally (Kruger), Martin plunges headlong into a deadly mystery that will force him to question his sanity, his identity, and just how far he is willing to go to uncover the truth.

SanctumDirector: Alistair GriersonStars: Richard Roxburgh, Rhys Wakefield, Alice Parkinson, Dan Wyllie, Ioan GruffuddStudio: Rogue Pictures Releasing: February 4, 2011

Follow the adventures of a team of underwater cave divers on a treacherous expedition to the largest, most beautiful and least accessible cave system on Earth. Master diver Frank McGuire (Roxburgh) has explored the South Pacific’s Esa-ala Caves for months. But when his exit is cut off in a flash flood, Frank’s team, including his teenage son Josh (Wakefield) and businessman Carl Hurley (Gruffudd), are forced to radically alter plans. Beautiful underwater shots and a nail-biter of a plot.

Gnomeo and JulietDirector: Kelly AsburyStars: James McEvoy, Emily Blunt, Michael Caine, Maggie Smith, Patrick StewartStudio: Touchstone PicturesReleasing: February 11. 2011What with Valentine’s Day, February is the month of love so it is only fitting that you make an effort to view the greatest love story ever told. With a difference! This is an animated adaption of Shakespeare’s classic tale Romeo and Juliet, but set in the world of tacky garden gnomes. The kids will love the antics. Adults might not be able to resist shedding a tear at the lunacy of love. Classic and original songs by Elton John.

SuperFreakonomicsEasy EconomicsBy Steven Levitt, Stephen DubnerThe sequel to the New York Times bestseller Freakonomics takes a hard look at odd human behaviour. The Freakquel is even bolder, funnier, and more surprising than the first. The book challenges the way we think all over again, exploring the hidden side of everything with some irreverent questions on a range of topics from global warming to safety belts. Levitt and Dubner mix smart thinking and great storytelling. By examining how people respond to incentives, they show the world for what it really is - good, bad, ugly, and in the final analysis, superfreaky.

Full Dark, No StarsHorrorBy Stephen KingFour new short stories from the master of horror suspense, exploring old subjects revolving around murder, complicity and revenge. Now aged, 63, King just seems to get better and better and his command of the dark, convoluted corridors of the human mind is as chilling as ever. As fans have come to expect, the plots pull no punches and the pages turn by themselves. These four novellas will take hold of your imagination and accompany you into the night!

Hellhound On His Trail: The stalking of Martin Luther King Jr, and the international hunt for his assassinInvestigative Journ, By Hampton SidesThis is a marriage of the stories of James Earl Ray and Martin Luther King Jr, painting a picture of both men and tracking their movements in the period leading up to King’s murder in 1968, and then detailing the massive manhunt that lead to Ray’s capture. Many of the stories have been told individually before. (Even the woman with whom King spent his last night on Earth, Georgia Davis Powers, a Kentucky state senator, wrote her own autobiographical account of their relationship). But this is a clever retelling that lets us see King and his associates, the FBI, Scotland Yard and even operatives of the Canadian Mounted Police travel their separate routes in the same maelstrom. Books

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Shot a lot, dot!Canon Middle East has announced the launch of the PowerShot G12, the latest model in the multi award-winning PowerShot G-series. While retaining the classic handling and control of its predecessor, the HS System, 720p HD movie recording and Hybrid IS are new additions, delivering premium image quality in stills and movies, and a new front dial provides improved handling and swift manual control. The PowerShot G12 is also compatible with a new optional lens filter adapter. A new tracking AF mode lets you select objects from the centre of the frame and track them if they move, or if the frame is recomposed. Higher ISOs utilise faster shutter speeds, freezing motion to capture moving subjects with a reduced risk of blur.

Move itPlayStation Move offers a new and innovative gaming experience for the PlayStation 3 system by fusing realistic, high-definition gaming along with accurate, intuitive control. Used in cooperation with the PlayStation eye camera, PlayStation Move enables sophisticated motion control and immersive gameplay. The Move motion controller

combines advanced motion sensors, a dynamic colour changing sphere, vibration feedback, and an easy-to-use button interface. Equipped with

three-axis gyroscope, three-axis accelerometer and terrestrial magnetic field sensor, the motion controller tracks the

precise movements and the angle of the controller while the eye-cam detects the absolute position of the controller in 3D space. Highly sensitive movement tracking can be accurately traced back to the game, allowing intuitive gameplay as if the player is

within the game.

No chargeOne day they will invent the ever-lasting battery pack. Until then, the world of portable chargers is always trying to come up with something new. Enter the

40 tecH talk

ElectroHub, a wireless charging station due to launch in the first quarter of 2011. What makes this unique is that the device can use AA and AAA ElectroHub batteries. So you can take any device that takes those batteries and swap it for an ElectroHub one. As far as the devices with non-replaceable batteries, it does require a protective case that works as a converter to charge the device’s internal battery. www.coolest-gadgets.com

Top 7 household ways you can be greenUnplug: Turning off electrical devices won’t just reduce the planetary demand for energy, it might save you some bucks on your electric bill each month.

Use less hot water: Think about installing a solar-powered water heater.

Go fluorescent: Fluorescent bulbs last longer and use less energy. Now there’s a bright spark!

Less plastic: Invest in a canvas bag to store your groceries at the supermarket.

Plant a tree: Trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping to reduce global warming.

Recycle more: Savvy shopping and a little creativity can keep your trash pile from mounting.

Drive less: Join a car pool or try fit in as many errands as you can in one go.

Real air chatController: “Flight353 contact Cleveland Center 135.60.(pause)Controller: “Flight353 contact Cleveland Center 135.60!”(pause)Controller: “Flight353 you’re just like my wife - you never listen!”Pilot: “Center, this is Flight553, maybe if you called her by the right name you’d get a better response!”

Controller: “Flight123YZ, state altitude.”Flight123YZ: “Altitude.”Controller: “Flight123YZ, state airspeed.”Flight123YZ: “Airspeed.”Controller: “Flight123YZ, state ‘losing my pilot’s license.’ ”Flight123YZ: “Eight thousand feet, one hundred fifty knots indicated.”

Beech Baron: “Uh, controller, verify you want me to taxi in front of the 747?”Controller: “Yeah, it’s OK. He’s not hungry.”

Precious timeImagine there is a bank that credits your account each morning with $86 400. Every evening the bank deletes whatever money you did not spend that day. What would you do? Draw out every cent, of course! Each of us has such a bank. Its name is time. Every morning, it credits you with 86 400 seconds. Each day it opens a new account for you. Each night it burns the remains of the day. If you fail to use the day’s deposits, the loss is yours. Invest it to get the most in health, happiness and success. To realise the value of one year, ask a student who failed a grade. To realise the value of one month, ask a mother who gave birth to a premature baby. To realise the value of one week, ask the editor of a weekly newspaper. To realise the value of one hour, ask lovers who are waiting to meet. To realise the value of one minute, ask a person who missed the train. To realise the value of one second, ask a person who just avoided an accident. And one hundredth of a second? Ask an Olympic runner! Treasure every moment. Time waits for no one. Today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present!

Time Out

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Wadi GhulKnown as Oman’s Grand Canyon, the monolithic towers of Wadi Ghul in A’Dakhliyah, reaching a height of 300m, offer Alpine-style climbing at its best. From Muscat, drive to Nizwa, then take the road to Ibri for 34km, and then turning right to Al Hamra. In Al Hamra turn left at the petrol station and follow the road for 10km.

Jabal ShamsThis is the highest mountain peak situated in the northeast region of Oman near the village of Ghul. The mountain is a part of the Al Hajar mountain ranges, and has a maximum height of 3075m. It is a superb location for rock climbing. Note that in winter months the temperature can drop to zero degrees. The Al Hawb route requires either experience in rock climbing or a rope, or both. There is a short crack/chimney climb, then a longer slab, about 30m long.

Jabal MishtJabal Misht is a superb location for mountain climbing with its rocky front, perhaps the largest in the Arabian Peninsula. Its south-east front extends for approximately 6km, reaching a maximum height of 850m, providing trails of all levels of difficulty. The original route, French Pillar, takes a wandering line out left in the lower section and crosses to the right flank at the top. The Icarus route scales the steep right flank of the lower pillar with a groove system in the upper crest. Davison’s route lies between the two.(Suggested reading: Rock Climbing in Oman by RA McDonald describes over 160 climbs graded in British, Continental, Australian and American systems.)

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The Sultanate provides a range of limestone routes, from sports climbing and cragging to multi-pitch routes, both bolted and traditional

Top of the morning

MuseumsTo make your cultural journey complete, a visit to at least one of the dozen museums in Oman is recommended. The Natural History Museum features Oman’s flora and fauna, including some of the indigenous species. To get a glimpse of Oman’s military history, visit the Armed Forces Museum. The National Museum showcases a rare collection of the history of the ruling dynasty. The archaeological lineage of the country can be found in the Omani Museum. There is an exclusive museum for children, the Children’s Museum, that is educative as well as entertaining. Bait Al Zubair and Bait Al Baranda are examples of how Oman’s history has been captured in a capsule for those who are not familiar with it. For a complete listing of Oman’s various museums, please refer to the local dailies.

Hotels Oman has a wide variety of staying options

catering to any and all types of visitors. From plush five-star beach-facing resorts and spas for

the more upmarket visitors, to the four-star, three-star, hotel apartments, camps, guest houses, and

youth hostels, everyone’s wallet is catered for. Desert and mountain camps are particularly

interesting experiences if you have not had the opportunity to enjoy them before. While in

Muscat, you will be spoilt for choices, and when you head towards the interior you will experience true rustic charm and old-world elegance. Either

way, you will get to experience the essence of true Omani hospitality wherever you stay.

ShoppingWhen it comes to shopping, Oman is full of choices both traditional and modern. If you are looking for some of the world’s best brands, you could head to the nearest mega-malls, shopping complexes or hypermarkets. You can find these outlets all across the capital city, as well as in the larger cities like Nizwa, Sohar, Sur and Salalah. If traditional shopping is your interest, then you must visit the Muttrah Souq beside the Muttrah Corniche area. There are also some very old and famous souqs in Nizwa, Sinaw, Ibra and Salalah. For tourists, these souqs are a paradise for souvenir hunting! Frankincense, perfumes, spices, dates and antiques jostle for space with electronic products, fashion accessories and toys. For a complete Oman experience, have a go at both the old and the new!

Natural History Museum

Millennium Resort - Mussanah

Muttrah Souq

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Omanat a glance

The Sultanate of Oman is the third largest country located in the southeast coast of the Arabian peninsula. The Sultanate is bordered by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the west, the United Arab Emirates in the northeast, the Republic of Yemen in the southwest, the Strait of Hormuz in the north and the Arabian Sea in the east.

Oman has a land area of approximately 3 09 500km2 and a 3 165km long coastline extending from the Strait of Hormuz in the north, to the borders of the Republic of Yemen in the south.

Oman’s coast spans the three seas : the Arabian Gulf, the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Sea. A number of islands also are part of Oman including the famous islands of Masirah and Halaniyat (Kuria Muria). The country’s northern most part, the Musandam peninsula is Oman’s only coast on the Arabian Gulf and it is located across the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Fact SheetArea : 3 09 500km2.Population (2010) : 2.69 million, including 743 000 expatriates.Language : Arabic (official), English (widely spoken), German & French (most hotel staff ).Capital : Muscat.Local Time : GMT +4.Currency : Omani Rial, which equates to US$ 2.58.Shopping Hours : 09:00 - 13:00 then 16:30 - 22:00

Currency The local currency is the Omani Rial (referred to as RO or OR or OMR). It is further divided into 1000 Baizas. Currency denominations are available in 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 Rial and 500 and 100 Baiza notes. Coins are available in 50, 25, 10 and 5 Baizas.

ReligionIslam is the official religion of the Sultanate of Oman.

(Image source: Ahmed Al Shukaili)

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Trave ltips

Whenever you travel overseas, it is often useful to understand the local laws and customs in the destination country, as they can often be very different to your own. To avoid any mix up or confusion with local laws and customs we have provided some travellers tips to assist you in having an enjoyable visit to the Sultanate.Please be advised that the information contained on this page is not fully comprehensive and may be liable to change without prior warning. Consult a travel expert or your local embassy prior to departing on your journey.Oman’s laws are based on Sharia law, also known as the Islamic Law. • In Oman, it is illegal not to have some form of

official ID on you at any given time. Therefore, it is recommended that you carry either your passport, or a photocopy of, or some other valid identification card. Other forms of ID such as overseas driver’s license or overseas ID cards will not be accepted.

• Visitors holding valid UK, Australian, and American and certain other nation’s driving licenses (check with the embassy if your country’s license is valid) can currently obtain an Omani license without taking a driving test.

• Vehicles are driven on the right side of the road.

• Heavy rainfall can cause sudden and severe flooding to dry riverbeds, which may pass over a road. You are advised to take full precautions when driving during rains.

• Oman is a Muslim country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, or if you intend to visit religious areas.

Basic Arabic Phrases

(Image source: iStockphoto)

Yes : naäam No : laa Please : arjook Thank you : shukran You’re welcome : äafwan

Excuse me : lao samaht I am sorry : ana aasif Good morning : sabaah al khayrGood evening : masaa’ al khayrGood night : tusbih äalaa khayr

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Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has unveiled spectacular new First Class and Business Class lounges at Muscat International Airport. The lounges continue the themes of luxury, comfort and outstanding hospitality found on Oman Air’s aircraft, ensuring a seamless passenger experience.

The two lounges are located on the first floor of the terminal and combine the ultimate in modern and elegant interior design, state-of-the-art materials and technology and the generous hospitality for which Oman and Oman Air are renowned. Each lounge is open 24 hours a day and offers dedicated dining facilities, quiet rooms, men’s and women’s prayer rooms, wash and shower rooms, a business centre, and a “Chedi” spa with massage rooms, offering complimentary 15-minute treatments.

New luxury loungesFor those travelling with children, a heaven of toys and computer games awaits to keep them occupied within the dedicated playroom.

Excusive for Oman Air’s First Class passengers are dedicated lifts and staircases to the limousine pick-up point where chauffeurs will take passengers to their aircraft in complete comfort and luxury.

Business Class lounge

First Class lounge

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Oman Air has championed the Resalti initiative (My Message) and hosted an unprecedented signing ceremony at the Airlines Headquarters.

Over 200 women of diverse nationalities from Oman Air along with family members signed in solidarity, expressing their gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on a 2000m record breaking letter. Spearheaded by a group of young women, the 375kg letter travelled across the nation on the ‘Wings of Oman’ carrying personalised messages from women to the ‘Father of the Nation’.

Oman Air’s 40 Young Ambassadors who were selected in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, following a rigorous and objective assessment process, are now all set to embark their goodwill journey to Oman Air’s 40 destinations worldwide.

Forty students from across the Sultanate had been selected to deliver messages of solidarity to leading academic institutions in Oman Air’s forty destinations across the globe as

Resalti lands at HQ and departs with over 200 new messages

Oman Air Official Carrier of Muscat Festival 2011

Oman Air’s 40 Young Ambassadors get ready to deliver the messages

Armed with a clearly defined mandate to promote the Sultanate as the ‘Soul of Arabia’ and a unique tourist destination, Oman Air has partnered with Muscat Municipality and the Ministry of Tourism as the Official Carrier of Muscat Festival 2011 and all associated activities. The highly anticipated festival attracts not only the people and residents of Oman, but also discerning travelers from around the world to the capital during the four week festivities that will go on until the end of February and will feature a host of activities ranging from the Oman Food Festival, Tour of Oman, Extreme Sailing Series and Muscat Fashion Week to an exciting line-up of concerts and theatrical events.

part of the national carrier’s hallmark National Day initiative. The unprecedented “40 Young Ambassadors Programme” was launched to celebrate the Sultanate’s 40 years of progress and historic achievements under the reign and pioneering leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said. Starting early in 2011, each of the Young Ambassadors will visit one local school in their respective destinations where they will have the opportunity to deliver Oman’s message of modernity and heritage, highlighting the four decades of historic achievement and progress under the visionary leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

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