healthBeat the snack attack

businessPass that job interview!

it’s oman Life then and now

destinationMust-go Maldives

OctOber 2011 YOur cOpY tO Keep

The inflighT magazine of oman airThe inflighT magazine of oman air

ocTober 2011 Your copY To Keep

Oman airBest business class seat in the world

MarhabaIt is now just two years since we introduced the first of our luxurious Airbus A330 aircraft to our long haul flights and the space and onboard services that they offer have received international acclaim. Indeed, we recently received the Best Business Class Seat in the World award at the World Airline Awards, which were voted on by air travellers from around the globe.

So we have decided to share our success with as many people as possible this autumn and we are taking our messages far and wide.

The Business Class seat, together with our spacious Economy Class seat and exclusive First Class cabin, has just received a huge amount of interest at France’s premier travel industry event, Top Resa. And over coming weeks we will be showing potential passengers (and some of our competitors!) just how good air travel can be, as our Business Class seat sets off on an international roadshow. So, if you see the seat on your travels, do stop by and let the crew know about your experiences of Oman Air.

But it is not just our seats that have been winning awards. Last December, Oman Air’s pioneering inflight mobile phone and wi-fi connectivity won Technological Innovation of the Year at the Aviation Business Awards. More recently, last month it won the Best Inflight Connectivity and Communications Award at the Passenger Choice Awards, run by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX). This was particularly pleasing for us, as an additional validation of the high level of appreciation of our innovative technology, voted for by the world’s most discerning judges: air travellers.

So, as you relax in your seat, enjoy Oman Air’s famed hospitality and check your phone for messages, you can do so in the knowledge that you really are flying with one of the best airlines in the world.

Peter Hill Chief Executive Officer

24

ContentsFestival focus Be a part of these fun, educational and cultural events this month.

Lost in ParadiseOne of the most romantic getaways on the planet, The Maldives offer luxury, beauty and tranquility in one package.

28

12

Mountain Magic A doctor returns to Misfah to see how life has changed since he was there more than 25 years ago.

20Sell yourselfThe art of passing a job interview.

Snack attack!Dealing with emotional eating habits.

8

ReviewsThe latest movies and some entertaining reads.

36

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

34

Contents32 Sports

Crank up the big screen for these top sports events this month.

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

Translation

Mohammed Abdullah Abu Al Majd

Designers

Justin Das

Mohammed Iqbal

marketingmedia Sales Director

Ashish Chaturvediashish@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.

Culture & HeritageShowcasing three Muscat museums.40

London Restaurant FestivalWHERE: London, city-wideWHEN: October 3 - 17WHAT: If you love food, don’t miss the London Restaurant Festival, a fortnight of fabulous foodie events and special menus at London restaurants. This is a city-wide celebration of London restaurants and chefs and there is something for every taste and budget, from great-value festival menus to amazing one-off events, gastronomic debates to foodie film nights. www.londonrestaurantfestival.com

East African Dance Festival WHERE: Dar es SalaamWHEN: OctoberWHAT: The Visa 2 Dance Festival was founded five years ago and is a truly unique festival in East Africa. No other festival celebrates dance as does this showcase of contemporary art. Taking place in October 2011 in the port of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, this festival is not only about Tanzanian dance, but also has a truly international feel with dancers traveling from all parts of the globe to be a part of a fun event. Showcasing dance through outreach and promotion of dance at community events/performances and through dance workshops.

OktoberfestWHERE: MunichWHEN: Until October 3WHAT: The Oktoberfest is a world-renowned event which takes place every year between the end of September and the beginning of October in Munich, Germany. The event goes on for three consecutive weekends and a total of two weeks celebrations. The area of Theresienwiese turns into a giant amusement park, with the famous Festhalle representing Munich’s historic beer houses, serving rivers of beer night and day. As in every amusement park, there are also souvenirs tents and little kiosks selling sandwiches, beer, würstel and the famous pretzel, a salty kind of bread typical of the Bavarian region. www.oktoberfest-munchen.com

Zurich Jazz FestivalWHERE: ZurichWHEN: October 26 - 29WHAT: Lovers of jazz and the blues should not miss the Zurich Jazznojazz concerts, which are held at various central venues and run each year by the All Blues Konzert organization. The festival a furious blend of jazz, funky fusion and soul. Jazz luminaries such as Richard Galliano, the Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra, Michel Camilo & Tomatito, or the Japanese Power pianist Hiromi, fusion legends like Klaus Doldinger, Brian Auger, Fourplay or Randy Crawford & Joe Sample and the fresh voices of Soul Joy Denalane, Raul Midon, Selah Sue, Imany, Charles Bradley and Ben L›Oncle Soul provide an eclectic mix. www.jazznojazz.ch

8 Festivals

International Investment ShowWHERE: MoscowWHEN: October 14-15 WHAT: This event gathers leading overseas property experts. Developers, real estate agents and brokers, banks and management companies will present their best projects, high-quality analytics and economic forecasts. The investment show offers its visitors a chance to obtain professional advice on most lucrative investments and learn about up-to-date methods of asset management and capital appreciation. Most diverse property bids from 40 countries will be introduced at the show by 180 companies. www.investshow.ru

GITEX Electronics ShowWHERE: Dubai Airport ExpoWHEN: October 8 – 15WHAT: GITEX ShopperTM is the biggest and the best consumer electronics retail platform with power retailers and world-class brands. Loyal buyers look forward to this mega shopping bonanza year after year. Featuring interactive visitor attractions, customer promotions, instant rewards on purchases and competitions. this year, the event promises to be another spectacular eight-day shopping extravaganza which you can’t afford to miss! A staggering 166 521 visitors attended last year, drawn to the unrivalled range of new gadgets, unbeatable prices, bundled offers, value deals and fabulous prizes. www.gitex.com

International Jewellery ShowWHERE: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition CentreWHEN: October 17 - 21WHAT: The International Jewellery Show 2011 is an exclusive and high-end jewellery and watch event. Through its showcase of the world’s leading brands in the world’s richest city, Abu Dhabi, the capital of United Arab Emirates, the event attracts elite retailers and distributors. JWS Abu Dhabi 2011 is organised by Reed Exhibitions, a part of Reed Jewellery Group, and complements one of the most prestigious jewellery shows in the world, JCK Las Vegas. www.jws.ae

10 event Horizon

12 international Destination

Nestled in the warm Indian Ocean, the Maldives offer luxury, romance and serenity, as well as a world of fun water sports

On a map, the Maldive Islands are only a scattering of dots over the equator in the Indian Ocean – hardly noticeable. In reality too, this is one of the few remaining holiday destinations that has remained elusive to the hubbub of modern urbanisation. It is a country comprising more than 1192 small coral islands naturally

Lost in Paradisegrouped into 26 atolls. Of these only 200 or so are inhabited by locals and from among the rest, 96 have been developed into luxury resorts.

One of the major tourist attractions of coming to the capital, Male, is the shopping, with a wide variety of markets you will be able to find many antiques, souvenirs and gifts for family and friends. With the prices being very competitive you can often find great bargains if you are prepared to shop around.

InternatIonal DestInatIon 13

14 InternatIonal DestInatIon

You can guarantee you will have a number of activities to take part in while visiting Male whether you are into taking in the sights or relaxing in the sun by the pool. You will be able to find something to do that even the whole family will enjoy – bringing you all closer than ever.

Be sure to see the legendry fruit and vegetable stands, here you will see people from all over the Indian Ocean come to buy and trader their stocks.

The Maldives straddle the equator to the south west of Sri Lanka. The atolls are divided into 20 administrative ones, with the capital Male established as an entity of its own forming the 21st division. Only 202 of the islands that stretches 820 kilometers north to south and 120 kilometres east to west are inhabited; 990 uninhabited and 93 are exclusive resort islands. Of her total 298 km2 (34, 750 square miles) area, 99% of the Maldives is sea and only 0.331 percent, 298 km2 (115 square miles) is land.

The exact number of islands in the archipelago remains an unsolved mystery to this day. The British Admiralty chart lists some 1,100 islands, while a recent government count records 1,196. If sand bars and coral outcrops were included the figure would be closer to 2,000. Obtaining an accurate figure is further impeded by the fact that islands form while

others disappear. Some islands are known to have combined, as others have split in to two and occasionally new islets have been known to form over coral reefs.

These small, picturesque islands with dense tropical vegetation including shrubs, flowering plants and tall coconut palms surrounded by blindingly white beaches, crystalline lagoons that exhibit all shades of blue is the combination that has acclaimed Maldives as paradise on Earth.

Most of the islands can be walked across in no

more than 10 minutes; only a few are bigger than two

square kilometers

16 InternatIonal DestInatIon

The merging of beaches, crystal waters, and crisp blue skies create a sense

of infinite vastness, a natural openness that is rare

Most of the islands can be walked across in no more than 10 minutes; only a few are bigger than two square kilometers. Although most islands are less than a mile long, the merging of beaches, crystal waters, and crisp blue skies create a sense of infinite vastness, a natural openness that is rare, spelling a beckoning tranquility.

These resorts offer the epitome of luxury wrapped in a serene package of tranquility and romance. It is the perfect retreat for those wishing to forget the buzz of city life, kick back and relax without a care in the world. The pristine blue waters, white sandy beaches and lazily swaying palm trees that writers and painters use to describe utopian tropical islands, is exactly what the Maldives is all about. Be it romance, diving, surfing, relaxation or even rejuvenation you want from your holiday time, the Maldives are the piece of heaven you need.

Nowhere else in the world could be as heavenly as a resort in the Maldives for a couple who just want to revel in each other’s company, away from everyone else. Each Maldives resort is a little tropical island with soft, glowing white sandy beaches surrounded by crystal clear lagoons that shimmer with every shade of blue one can imagine. The very private suites on these islands are equipped with every necessary modern amenity, yet retain the magic of natural settings; served by discreet staff who attend to your every whim before you can ask for it.

The Maldives is also one of the best places in the world for diving. The clear waters and colorful underwater flora and fauna that is a Maldivian heritage coupled with the constant year-round temperatures of 28°C – 33°C make the Maldives a heaven for divers and surfers. Of course, it is an added bonus that the Maldives is host to a number of world-renowned dive sites.

For those who believe a worthwhile holiday is one in which you can simply sit back and relax – the Maldives are your paradise too. What would be a better place to relax than on a stretch of white sand caressed by turquoise waters, basking in the warm sun, cooled by the swaying palm fronds? If your idea of relaxation involves good food, drinks and music then you should know that each resort of the Maldives has restaurants, bars and discos that cater for a variety of tastes.

If it’s rejuvenation that you need, then heaven for you would be the well-equipped spas which are available in most of the local resorts. Many of these spas are situated on the beach where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the islands as well as the therapeutic spa treatments. Some resorts offer even more exotic settings such as underwater spas.

16 InternatIonal DestInatIon

Learn GermanLearn Dhivehi Country FactsOman Air flying four times a week between Muscat and Male

Visa requirements: Visitors must possess a valid international travel document and a valid return ticket or onward ticket for the next destination. You must also have at least $30 per person per day, or else furnish a proof of the confirmed hotel reservation for the total duration of stay. A 30-day visa is issued on arrival at designated ports of entry.

Languages spoken: The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, which is similar to languages from Sri Lanka, South East Asia and North India. It contains many Arabic, Hindi and English words.

Currency: The Rufiyaa [Rf ] is divided into 100 Larees.

BasicsHello - Assalaamu AlaikumGoodbye - DhaneeHow are you? - Kihineh?Yes - AanNo - NoonWhat is your name? - Kon nameh kiyanee?OK - MassalaHow much? - Agu kihaavareh?Please - Adhes kohfaYou’re welcome - MaruhabaaGood – Ran’galhuThank you - ShukuriyaaExcuse me - Ma-aafu kureyWhere is it? - Kobaa?Good morning - Bajaveri hendhuneGood evening - Bajaveri haveer eh

NumBers1 - Ekeh2 - Dehyh3 - Thineh4 - Hathareh5 - Faheh6 - Hayeh7 - Hatheh8 - Asheh9 - Nuvaeh10 – Dhihaeh

18 InternatIonal DestInatIon

Mountain Magic After making a documentary on the mountain village of Misfah in 1984 with a Danish colleague, Dr. Hussein Shehadeh decided

to return to the village to see how things had changed

(Image source: Photolibrary)

When he opened up his old notebook from 1984, the first thing he saw was a quote from the holy Quran: “Whoever obeys God and His messenger,

He will admit him to the gardens underneath which rivers flow, therein dwelling forever.”

Shehadeh says that this image of paradise reflects the dream of the nomadic Bedouin who, for thousands of years, have

had to keep body and soul together in the barren wilderness of the southern Arabian desert, a dream of an oasis surrounded by shady fruit trees.

Shehadeh found an earthly manifestation of this paradise in the little village of Misfah, clinging to the mountainside some 190km from Muscat, the capital of Oman. Admittedly, the river was

missing, but a myriad of water galleries (falaj) flowed through the village, the

mainstay of a harmonious ecology of flora, fauna and human society.

Misfah has a population of some 300-400 inhabitants, almost all

of whom work on the land. They grow dates, bananas and

limes, which they sell in the larger towns, although the

community is more or less self-sufficient.

20 It’s Oman

The dwellings in the village seem almost to grow out of the spectacular rock foundations. The terrain and the narrow alleys prohibit the building of roadways allowing anything wider than a donkey to pass. So the sound of motor vehicles is pleasantly absent. The air is filled with the sound of braying donkeys, the hum of insects and the cries of playing children, with the gurgling of water in the background.

The falaj totally dominates life in the village. In one place it widens to form a large reservoir. In others, the women gather to wash their clothes and their cooking utensils. One of the falaj channels water into a building beside the mosque, which is partitioned into small booths where water gushes out through holes at the top of the walls. One can have a refreshing shower here, before going to prayer in the mosque.

The mosque itself is built on the edge of a ravine. It consists of a small prayer-room (znihrab) and two terraces which are used for outdoor worship and as a recreational area. Here the villagers take a siesta, sit and chat or drink coffee. As Shehadeh wandered through the streets of the village, he was surprised by the sound of a man chanting from the window of a house high up on a crag. It was the village poet, Habib, in the course of the daily recital of his work.

Shehadeh and his colleague did not meet him until the next day, when they were unloading their film equipment from the car, just outside the village. A reception committee came towards them. One of them was the grey-

It’s oman 21

bearded village shaikh dressed in a traditional white robe, with a child clinging to each hand.

There was also a strange-looking fellow who appeared to be about 50 years old. He was naked from the waist up, very thin but muscular, rather like a ballet dancer. He was wearing a pair of very baggy trousers and on his head a sort of turban. At first they thought he was quite insane. He laughed uncontrollably, and each time he burst out laughing his shoulders almost reached his ears and his long, thin arms dangled at his sides. This was Habib. It later occurred to Shehadeh that his laughter was actually an expression of spontaneity unknown in northern latitudes.

Their equipment consisted, amongst other things, of a large metal box that must have weighed at least 100 pounds, which had to be carried up to the spring, some three or four miles up the mountain. Habib resolutely lifted the box up onto his head. When the photographer started to protest, Habib became ruffled for the first and only time during their stay in Misfah. He insisted on carrying the box all the way up, and literally bounded off like a mountain goat.

When they reached the spring and prepared to start filming, Habib crouched by the water’s edge and washed his face, at the same time occupying himself with a quotation from the Quran: “Water giveth life to all God’s creatures.” The following day Shehadeh drank coffee with him and asked him why he laughed so often. “Because I’m a believer,” he replied. “Anger and trouble do not dare enter the heart of a believer. The heart of a believer is like silver: when cast into the flames it becomes hardened.”

All the villagers are related to one another and meet several times a day, yet they always greet each other warmly and take time to chat. They must spend a couple of hours a day simply exchanging greetings.

Developments in the outside world have already begun to make their mark on village life, in spite of its self-sufficiency. Television aerials can be seen on many of the rooftops. There is, as yet, no grid-electricity supply to Misfah, so power for the televisions and the shopkeeper’s cold counter is supplied by generators.

22 It’s oman

Although many of the young men work in the city in order to pay for modern consumer goods, they would never dream of settling there permanently. They return to their families every weekend. They do not believe new developments represent a real threat to the village’s survival.

One of the young men of the village put it simply: “Misfah is where I was born. It’s like a song in my heart. My whole family and my friends live here, so this is where I belong.”

(Image source: Photolibrary)

24 HealtH & Beauty

When the chips are down, do you pick them up and put them straight into your mouth? Understanding comfort

eating is the only way to beat it!

Snack attack!

HealtH & Beauty 25

When you are facing a difficult situation in life, when you are going through tough times, or when you are bored, do you tend to head straight for the kitchen? Emotional eating is a disorder, but it is not something to be scared of.

Understanding emotional eating Food is supposed to nourish your body and mind, so if you feel good after having a chocolate pastry, it’s alright! But if eating to feed your emotional hunger becomes a habit, that’s when it becomes a disorder. The good news is, just as quickly as we let a small habit become a disorder, we can easily get rid of it too! All it takes is to identify what triggers emotional eating in you. Once you know the bull, you can take it by the horns!

Find your emotional triggers The causes of emotional eating, or eating disorders in general, are many - peer pressure, social isolation, difficult parents, difficult partners, abusive relationships, stress, anxiety, depression, and many more. However, the triggers for emotional eating can be very specific and unique. It is important you identify your triggers and nip them in the bud. Here are a few easy steps to do just that.

Observe and avoid Try to observe the times you crave something to eat. How do you feel afterwards? Sad? Guilty? Then you just had yourself an emotional snack! Observe your state of mind before and after eating. If you notice a pattern, you are on the right track. Avoid the pattern that triggers emotional snacking. Be vigilant - but do not be hypercritical! It’s ok to snack.

Know the difference Emotional hunger suddenly hits you! If you are hungry and it’s dinnertime and you feel like having a cheese pizza, that’s okay. But if you feel like, “I want a cheese pizza and I want it NOW!” in the middle of a lecture, or in the middle of work (or in the middle of the night even!), understand that it is only an emotional hunger. Try to analyse what you are exactly feeling at the moment - tired? Frustrated? Hopeless? Anxious? Nervous? Afraid? Disappointed? Find the cause behind feeling like that, and attend to the cause, not the hunger.

Set a routine Set yourself a routine and try to follow it everyday. The importance of a healthy diet cannot be stressed upon enough. Include a little bit of everything - exercise, work, fun and socialising. Everything that

we do feeds our mind, heart and soul with its own food; from a movie we watch, to a song we listen to. Do not underestimate the importance of any of the above in life. Plan your week ahead and keep yourself engaged, so you are never left sitting in the sofa and with nothing to do! Nothing busts boredom as much as engaging in something intricate and creative!

Keep smiling! It is important to ensure that you develop a positive attitude towards life. Try to inculcate a sense of optimism in your personality and your approach. Talk to people when you are feeling stressed or low. Vent your feelings by writing them down on a piece of paper or in a diary and, most importantly, throw the paper or diary away after you are done. What release!(Words: Mrunal Belvakar)

26 HealtH & Beauty

We have all been in the hot seat trying to wow a potential new boss, so why didn’t you get the job?

Sell yourself28 BusIness

(Image source: Photolibrary)

When you apply for a job in today’s job-scarce world, you are up against thousands of other candidates. Many will be chancers, but plenty will be polished, professional men and women who have spent hours fine tuning their interview techniques. Here’s how to do the same.

Know your stuff: You need to research the company, which you have applied for. Blunders happen when a candidate is asked questions about the company by the interviewers and is left tongue-tied.

Solution: Use the internet. Phone the receptionist. Invite an employee for coffee and a chat and ask them about the history and working conditions of the company.

Dress to kill: Top CEOs of major companies often report how

amazed they are by the way candidates dress. Your physical appearance could not be more

important. It tells your potential new boss a lot about who you are. As far as grooming

is concerned, untrimmed nails and greasy hair will also create a bad

impression.

• In men, an unshaven look, disorganised hair, untidy shoes

and inappropriate clothes will look unprofessional.

• Women must avoid excessive make-up and too

many accessories, and should dress professionally.

Solution: Seek the advice of a professional stylist or personal

groomer before your interview.

Wrong Talk: Despite the nervousness you are likely to feel during a formal

interview, it is important not to stutter or stammer when

the recruiter asks you a question. Don’t waffle on about irrelevant facts. Don’t

ask too many questions. And above all, never badmouth your previous employer. This could be construed as a lack of loyalty or a negative outlook on life.

Solution: You should aim to come across as positive person. Simple breathing techniques can help you to maintain a calm mood.

Missing Etiquette: The chief reasons for interview errors by candidates are nervousness or a callous attitude. The interviewers generally comprise of human resource executives and thus up to some extent can pick out bad candidates. They are good observers of people and look for a candidate who has good manners and etiquette. Not greeting the interviewer is a common blunder.

Solution: Avoid the following: improper posture, playing with some object in hand, running your fingers through your hair while talking, shifting and changing positions, a poor handshake, lack of eye contact.

By all means enquire what salary you could expect to earn.

Good manners: The following are some of the common interview blunders that the candidates should avoid...

• Not reaching the interview on time, that is either reaching too early or too late.

• A candidate presenting wrong facts and the interviewer catching the candidate on that also gets counted as an interview blunder.

• Using slang and a casual language tone while communicating is not a good sign at all.

•The pitch of your voice and the expression on your face should be friendly.

• Keep your cellphone either switched off or in silent mode. An accidental ringing halfway through the interview suggests you do not take the matter seriously.

Confidence and composure have a huge impact on your chances of success in any interview. An interview is the stepping-stone to a rewarding career and you should take all the effort to make it worthwhile. All the best! (Words: Aastha Dogra)

business 29

Jacket in!The iconic biker jacket has been around for a good 100 years, and this Autumn marks new interest in this ultimate fashion item. The celebrity fan-base dates back to The Ramones, Blondie and more recently pop starlets trying to up their rock image, such as Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Lilly Allen. Cool pastel leathers are decorated with distinct fur, shearling and contrasting collars. The biker jackets are made from velvety lambskin, are lightweight and brilliantly fitted. Each jacket is carefully crafted and adorned with star studs, mini front pocket pouches, with each jacket finished with a leather belt for the original biker look. These are collectable items, built to last and never to date. www.schottnyc.com

30 FasHIOn & trends

Very JeevesA truly British invasion is due to take place, as Beverley Hills awaits the eagerly anticipated arrival of a new look in the world of top end men’s business fashion. Quintessentially English, ready-to-wear, made-to-measure and bespoke ranges at the luxury end of the market, these suits take on board the very best in luxury fabrics and the finest English tailoring. If it is the country gentlemen look that you are aiming for, or if you fancy brightening up the boardroom, these are the suits for you. www.lutwyche.co.uk

FasHIon & trenDs 31

Moon beamsArt effects with light during the night of the ‘Supermoon’ on March 19, 2011, in Cayton Bay, England. From great balls of fire to haunting moonlit spirals these spectacular pictures show how a once-in-a-generation chance inspired beach art. (Photo: Jamie Wardley/Barcroft Media/Getty Images)

Trouble over bridged water No trick photography here! Londoners were amazed as 28-year-old British magician Dynamo walked across the River Thames, by Westminster Bridge, to mark the launch of his new TV show. Dynamo was picked up the River Police halfway across. (Photo: Rosie Hallam/Barcroft Media/Getty Images)

South American Blues The so-called Marble Cathedral on Lake Carrera in Patagonia, Chile. Perhaps the world’s most beautiful cave. Visitors experience incredible rich light, caused by the sky reflecting into the water. (Photo: Linde Waidehofer/Barcroft Media/Getty Images)

32 WOrld VIeW

Colour me bold A painted model poses for photographers on the final day at the World Body-painting Festival in Poertschach, Austria. The festival drew body-painting artists from 40 different nations. (Photo: Mathias Kniepeiss/Getty Images)

What’s yours is mine, yes? In a very unusual and opportunistic animal partnership, a female brown bear and a grey wolf relax together after fishing for salmon at the Hallo Bay estuary in the Katmai National Park, Alaska. (Photo by Christopher Dodds/Barcroft Media / Getty Images)

Cold play Natalia Avseenko swims with beluga whales in the sub-zero White Sea off the coast of northern Russia. Beluga whales generally shy away from conventional scuba divers because they dislike the bubbles they produce. (Photo: Viktor Lyagushkin/Barcroft Media/Getty Images)

WorlD VIeW 33

SquashOctober 14 – 21The $225,000 Qatar Classic kicks off in Doha, Qatar this year. Doha also becomes the focus of World Series activity from October 16 - 21, with the 10th staging of the Qatar Classic - which is followed by the 25th edition of the Hong Kong Open from November 15 - 20. This year’s TV output and distribution will be the best yet and organisers are looking forward to top-seeded international players battling it out for this year’s PSA World Series title.

Foot VolleyOctober 27 – 29Dubai Sports Council and the UAE Volleyball Federation will host the Foot Volleyball World Cup at the Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence. This spectacular event will be the first official event belonging to the International Federation of Volleyball. FootVolley is among one of the fastest growing popular sports over the past few years and played according to the same field rules of beach volleyball but without using hands. The game manages to attract many international football’s stars, such as Romario, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and others. This World Cup is expected to have a total of 32 teams from 27 countries.

Horse racingOctober 2, 2011The Prix de L’arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous horse races in the world and takes place at Longchamp in Paris. Last year, the colt Workforce won the race. The slogan of the race translates as “Not so much a race but a

Billfish ClassicOctober 7 -9

Taking place in the waters off Kuala Rompin, Malaysia, this is the big one for all sports anglers. A topwater lure prize category

has now been included into this October’s EdgeWater Power Boats Billfish Classic. This means there will be a big cash payout plus more

prizes allocated. Due to the vast numbers and concentration of sailfish available off Rompin, anglers can target sails this way, often with good

results. The prize for the top team is $15 000, plus additional prizes from industry and tackle sponsors.

monument”. A trip to Longchamp is a must for all horse racing fans in one of the most romantic cities in the world.

34 spOrts

The Three MusketeersDirector: Paul W.S. AndersonStarring: Logan Lerman, Ray Stevenson, Luke EvansStudio: Summit EntertainmentReleasing: October 21, 2011Loads of action, adventure and romance in this modernised re-imagining of the classic novels written in 1884 by French author Alexandre Dumas that follow the story of a young d’Artagnan, who longs to become a great musketeer - one of the personal guards of the French crown. He encounters and befriends the contentious Athos, Porthos, and Aramis - three musketeers of legend and folly.

Real SteelDirector: Shawn LevyStarring: Hugh Jackman, Dakota Govo, Kevin Durand, Anthony MackieStudio: Touchstone PicturesReleasing: October 7, 2011Jackman stars as Charlie Kenton, a washed-up fighter who lost his chance at a title when 2000-pound, 8-foot-tall steel robots took over the boxing ring. Now nothing but a small-time promoter, Charlie earns just enough money piecing together low-end bots from scrap metal to get from one underground boxing venue to the next. When Charlie hits rock bottom, he reluctantly teams up with his estranged son Max (Goyo) to build and train a championship contender. As the stakes in the brutal, no-holds-barred arena are raised, Charlie and Max, against all odds, get one last shot.

The Ides of MarchDirector: George ClooneyStarring: George Clooney, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Paul GiamattiStudio: Sony PicturesReleasing: October 7, 2011A gripping political thriller in which a young communications director works for a fast-rising presidential candidate. During the course of the campaign, the idealistic young man falls prey to the back-stabbing and other dirty trickery of seasoned rival politicos. The movie is based on a play by Beau Willimon which in turn is loosely based on Howard Dean’s 2004 presidential election campaign, during which Willimon worked for the Democrats.

36 reVIeWs

The Four-Hour Work WeekBy Timothy FerrissSubtitled, Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere And Join The New Rich, this is a semi-controversial blueprint for anyone that wants to ditch the rat race, travel the world, earn a respectable salary and enjoy life. Decide for yourself whether this is just another self-help spiel, or a helpful analysis of how to break the mould. The book challenges the idea that we should hold down a steady job until we retire, so if you are in your 20s and unsure about the path your life is taking, give it a try!

Reckless Endangerment:How Outsized Ambition, Greed And Corruption Led To Economic ArmageddonBy Gretchen Morgenson, Joshua RosnerIf there is one account of the current financial crisis you want to read, this must be it! Top journalistic sleuths Morgenson and Rosner show how the financial meltdown emerged from the toxic interplay of Washington, Wall Street, and corrupt mortgage lenders, and how the watchdogs who were supposed to protect the country from financial harm were actually complicit in the skullduggery. The authors examine the roles of Fannie Mae executives and enablers at Countrywide Financial, Goldman Sachs, the Federal Reserve, HUD, Congress and the FDIC to show how greed led countless officials to ignore warning signs of an imminent disaster.

Googled: The End Of The World As We Know ItBy Ken AulettaIs there anyone left on this planet that has not heard of Google? Not for much longer! Google has transformed the way we search for information. A superbly researched, fair and balanced account of one of the success stories of the modern era. However, does the company really stick by its guiding principle, “Do no evil”? The reader is left with the impression of a company that little understands the businesses it takes over, as Auletta dedicates some time to exploring the gap between the company’s intentions and the results of its business maneuvers.

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Elec-Tron-icRevolights aims to make cycling safer by adding a set of bicycle lights on the rim of each wheel. The design is also fairly straightforward--two thin LED rings (one red, one white) attached just below the brake appliers of each wheel. To keep the lights charging, there›s a small hub attached to the bike, connected with a slim wire, holding a rechargeable polymer lithium-ion battery. While the legal colors for lights on a road are red and white, the lights also come in slightly different shades.

Wake-up callDesigned specifically for anyone who has trouble getting out of bed of a morning, Snooze for iPhone, ensures that every time you hit the snooze button on your early morning alarm, you donate money to a non-profit.So it is up to you to decide whether to stay in bed and help some worthwhile organization, or get up and save money! Snooze will ask you two times a month if you would like to donate your snooze hits to the non-profit of your choice.

Handy mouseAre there any more doubts that the future will involve a melding of man and machinery? This is a glimpse forwards, with a new piece of gadget devilry that allows users to use the back of their hand as a mouse pad and their fingers as a mouse. Designed by Kei Nakatsuma, a PhD student at the University of Tokyo, it uses infrared detection to figure out where the user’s finger is, and special piezoelectric sensors to detect what a “tap” or “click” would be.

Tech Torque

Pedal powerEvery once in a while, you will see some concept of a device that completely throws the old model of the device out the window. Case in point, the INgSOC bike concept. As you can see, the traditional diamond frame has been replaced by this small camel’s hump design. By the way, this bike has a removable battery in the back for some electric riding, in case you were tired of pedaling. Speaking of electronics, there is a battery charge indicator located conveniently on the handlebars like a fuel indicator on a car. In case you want to see more “F” than “E” on the indicator, you should know that a certain percentage of the pedaling energy will be charging the battery.

They said it Actual reported transmissions between flight crew and controllers: Pilot: “Oh my! That was close...” Tower: “delta 560, what seems to be the problem?” Pilot (catching his breath), “Near miss. That was so close!” Tower: “Delta 560, how close was it?” Pilot: “Well, I can tell you one thing, the pilot had a blue shirt on!”

Life’s lessonsA farmer had some puppies for sale. A small boy came to buy one. “Well,” said the farmer, “these puppies come from fine parents and cost a good deal.” The boy dropped his head for a moment, then looked back up at the farmer and said, “I’ve got 39 cents. Is that enough to take a look?” Out from the doghouse ran five little balls of fur. The little boy’s eyes danced with delight. Then out from the doghouse peeked another little ball, this one noticeably smaller. Down the ramp it slid and began hobbling in an unrewarded attempt to catch up with the others. The pup was clearly the runt of the litter. The little boy pressed his face to the fence and cried out, “I want that one,” pointing to the runt. The farmer knelt down and said, “Son, you don’t want that puppy. He will never be able to run and play with you the way you would like.” The boy reached down and slowly pulled up one leg of his trousers, revealing a steel brace running down both sides of his leg attaching itself to a specially made shoe. Looking up at the farmer, he said, “You see, sir, I don’t run too well myself, and he will need someone who understands.”

Time OutA female pilot made a fantastic landing on an icy runway after visibly wrestling her Flying Tiger DC-8 through turbulence and blustery snow, fighting it right down to the runway. An anonymous voice: “But can you park it?”

A military pilot had been having difficulty with smooth landings and the crew was required to make note of the exact time the plane landed at different bases. One particular landing took several bounces. The crew reportedly called up to the pilot, “Which landing shall we note for the record, sir?”

Air humourA plane was taking off from Kennedy Airport. After it reached a comfortable cruising altitude the captain announced over the intercom, “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to flight 293, non-stop from New York to Los Angeles. The weather ahead is good and we should have a smooth and uneventful flight. Now sit back and relax and Aaaaaargh!” Silence followed. After a few minutes, the captain came back on the intercom: “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am so sorry if I scared you earlier. The flight attendant just spilled a cup of hot coffee in my lap. You should see the front of my pants!” A passenger yelled, “That’s nothing. You should see the back of mine!”

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Bait Munza GalleryDesigned to showcase the talent of Omani artists as well as the expat community, this gallery boasts a diverse range of artwork, including sculptures, paintings, calligraphy and film production. As well as supporting some big local and international names, an onsite gift shop offers a range of prints, jewellery and arts and crafts which make ideal presents for friends and family. Location: Saidaya Street, opposite Bait al Zubair Museum Tel: 24739204

Bait al Baranda Once known as the House of Verandah, this fascinating venue explores both the natural and the human environment in Oman. There are some interesting exhibits about ancient ways of life in Muscat and early human settlements from 10 000BC to the present day. A wonderful insight into the region and the culture.Location: Muttrah, between the Al Mina traffic circle and the Corniche. Tel: 24714262

Children’s MuseumIf you need to occupy the kids’ afternoon, take them to this fun venue that showcases exciting scientific and technologic developments. The exhibition is divided into three different sections, human life, physics and observation, and a tour of these will leave you and your offspring with a definite appreciation of the role technology has to play in all our lives.Location: Al Shatti Al Qurum, near Qurum Natural Park. Tel: 24605369

Oman has an impressive history and culture dating back thousands of years. Several museums in Muscat bring this rich legacy to light

Culture & Heritage

Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah

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!

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Museum of Omani Heritage

Qurum City Centre

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 northernmost 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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44 Oman aIr neWs

Business class customers enjoy new Traveller Lounge at HeathrowOman Air’s Business Class customers are able to enjoy exclusive complimentary access to No1 Traveller’s brand-new ‘flagship’ lounge at London Heathrow’s Terminal Three. Gold and Silver members of Oman Air’s Sindbad frequent fliers programme will also have full access to the lounge’s superb amenities. The national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman’s partnership with No1 Traveller will ensure that customers can make the most of the lounge’s outstanding hospitality, including a complimentary bistro-style menu, fully-tended bar, snug (quiet room), games rooms, showers, cinema, family room and a library which features complimentary Skype facilities.

Oman Air and Bahwan Travel Agencies createOman Air Holidays LLC

Oman Air has announced a new joint venture with Bahwan Travel Agencies, which will promote inbound tourism to Oman and outbound holidays to destinations served by the national carrier’s network. To be known as Oman Air Holidays LLC (in partnership with Bahwan Travels), the Sultanate of Oman’s first ever public/private partnership will result in the country’s largest travel and tourism business. The deal will see the airline’s Oman Air Holidays division integrate with Bahwan Tours for inbound holidays and with Bahwan Holidays for outbound holidays, sharing markets, personnel and systems to offer value for money products to clients in Oman and around the globe.

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Oman Air always on time at HeathrowFigures just released by the British Airport Authority for the month of July 2011 show that, for the third time in six months, Oman Air has been ranked top for on-time performance at London Heathrow, with 100% of its flights taking off on schedule. Oman Air has consistently

been ranked for on-time performance in the top five of airlines operating out of Heathrow and previously achieved first place in February and June 2011.

Oman Air racing team More and more success Muscat racing driver Ahmad Al Harthy and the Oman Air Racing Team have enjoyed huge success in the high profile Porsche Carrera Cup GB Championship so far in 2011 – and the winning partnership is focused on continuing that trend in the second part of the season.

In only his second year of sportscar racing, the 29-year-old Oman Air ambassador has proven he has what it takes to compete at the top level. In the current GB championship alone, Ahmad has raced to a tally of nine Pro-Am 1 podium finishes so far and took a memorable maiden win back in April.

Always striving for the top and keen to prove himself against the best drivers in the world, Ahmad has also spread his wings beyond Oman and the UK into new racing territories.

Taking on races in Porsche Carrera Cup France and also in the inaugural Porsche Carrera World Cup at the notorious and hugely challenging Nürburgring-Nordschleife in Germany, the Sultanate’s premier circuit racer is continually breaking new ground and always proudly flying the flag for Oman.

The most prominent event so far for the Oman Air Racing Team, in both commercial and sporting terms, was a debut in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup – the biggest Porsche series in the world – for its Formula One British Grand Prix-supporting race at Silverstone in July.

Ahmad represents the next generation of Omani sporting champions and is a superb role model for young people in the Sultanate and around the world. Oman Air is committed to identifying and providing essential support to talented individuals who can gain international recognition for their achievements and for their country.

Oman Air hopes to inspire young people in Oman and elsewhere to fulfil their sporting potential and to make the most of the interests and pastimes they are most passionate about.

Ahmad secured his ninth Pro-Am 1 podium of the Porsche Carrera Cup GB Championship season at Rockingham on 18th September, to hold on to equal third in the points standings.

This month, Ahmad takes to the legendary Silverstone track, the home of British Grand Prix, for the Porsche Carrera Cup GB. The Cup is at the very pinnacle of British motor racing.

To make this event more memorable, Oman Air Holidays is offering motor racing enthusiasts the trip of a lifetime, with an exclusive package to the iconic Silverstone circuit where the finale of the Porsche Carrera Cup GB will decide the Championship rankings for 2011.

Alongside Oman Air, Ahmad is additionally supported by Nawras, National Bank of Oman, Brand Oman, Oman Ministry of Sports Affairs and Oman Ministry of Tourism.