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may 2014 your Copy To Keepmay 2014 your Copy To Keep

As spring brings new growth, it also brings the opportunity for Oman Air to review its own growth and the progress we have made over the last year. We have just published our annual report and it shows not just financial progress, but also that more people than ever are choosing to fly with Oman Air.

With the addition to our fleet in early 2013 of new aircraft, we were able to increase frequencies to a number of destinations and we increased our capacity to a staggering 14.9 billion available seat kilometres. As a result, Oman Air carried almost five million passengers last year, an increase of 13% on 2012, which compares favourably with a global increase in demand of a little over 5%.

As a result of this growth, and the success of our other areas of operation, we increased our revenues by 10% in 2013, and this progress sets the scene favourably for the next phase of our expansion. The arrival, later this year, of the first few of the 20 aircraft we currently have on order will enable us to launch new destinations and greater frequencies across our network.

But growth is not the only aspect of our success story over the last year. Our international reputation has been founded on the quality of our products and services and, following the many awards we have received in recent years, we were delighted to be recently listed second in the American Express Executive Travel magazine’s ‘Top 12 Best Airlines for Business Class’ and first in the Best First Class Male Amenity Bag category of the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Bag Awards.

So not only are we continuing to grow, but we are also continuing to offer one of the best passenger experiences in the world.

Thank you for choosing to fly with Oman Air, and we look forward to seeing you again very soon.

From the CEO’s desk

Marhaba

Underground Oman

A selection of the Sultanate’s spectacular cave systems.

DiaryA wrap up of what festivals, events and sports are happening this month

The Fashion Capital of the World A look at what makes Milan so magnificently fashionable.

Must See: OmanWadi Bani Khalid is one of the most beautiful (and greenest) wadis in Oman.

High Intensity ExerciseCould less exercise really mean more for you?

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World View Life in all its forms from behind the photographer’s lens.

Entrepreneur Essentials Characteristics that have repeatedly been associated with successful entrepreneurs.

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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

EditorialEditorial HeadPaul Winterpaul.winter@npaoman.com

Mohammad Abu Al Majd

Client Servicing ExecutiveRuwayda Al Barwani

Designers Justin Das Mohammad Asif

Media Sales and Marketingadvertising@npaoman.com

Photographic ContributorsGettyImagesShutterStockYann CaradecMinistry of Tourism, Govt. of IndiaRed BullOman Light TeamAhmed bin Said Al ShanfariZahran Al Abdul SalamGassan bin Ahmed Al Jamali

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.

Oman Air NewsOman Air’s news and events.

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احتفظ بنسختك المجانية

مجلة رحالت الطيران الُعمانيمجلة رحالت الطيران الُعماني

احتفظ بنسختك المجانية مـايـو 2014مـايـو 2014

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اكتـشـف العـالـمعاصمة الموضة العالميـة

زر ُعــمــانكهـوف سلطنة عمـان

The inflighT magazine of oman airThe inflighT magazine of oman air

may 2014 your Copy To Keepmay 2014 your Copy To Keep

Wings Cover May.indd 1 4/24/14 3:37 PM

Colours of Malaysia Where: Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaWhen: May 24What: During Colours of Malaysia, thousands of participants get together to showcase and celebrate everything that Malaysia has to offer the world. Highlights of the evening are choreographed traditional performances, marching band displays and other cultural celebrations with themes relating to Malaysia’s natural, cultural, sporting and lifestyle heritage. The festival takes place at Merdeka Square, starting around 5:00pm and lasting until midnight.

Beirut Tango Festival (May 1 – May 4, Beirut,

Lebanon).

Milan Outdoor Art Festival Pittori del

Naviglio Grande (May 4, Milan, Italy).

Al Gaffal Traditional

Dhow Racing Festival

(May 17, Dubai, UAE).

Diary

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Circus Knie Where: Zurich, Switzerland When: May 9 – June 9What: Circus Knie’s festival of acrobatics, animal acts, clowns and popular comedy has proven very successful over the years. But the organisers say they are promising something extra special for Zurich this month. It’s not to be missed! The famous Circus Knie was founded in 1803 by the Knie family and has existed in its present form since 1919 when it changed from an open arena to a traditional covered circus tent. It will be taking place at the Sechseläutenwiese field – Switzerland’s largest urban square.

Buddha Jayanti Where: Throughout IndiaWhen: May 14What: Buddha Jayanti is perhaps the most sacred of Buddhist festivals. During this time, Buddhists participate in various activities including group meditations and processions. Many followers also visit temples to listen to monks giving talks and reciting ancient verses. Buddha Jayanti is celebrated particularly joyously at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi.

Hairworld Hair and Beauty Show (3 May - 5 May, Frankfurt,

Germany).

Royal Coronation Day

(5 May, Bangkok, Thailand).

Muscat International

Jewellery Exhibition

(26 May – 30 May, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman).

Diary

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Night of Museums ‘Nuit des Musées’

Where: Throughout France When: May 17 – May 18

What: During one night in May, some 1 000 museums in Paris and

throughout France (and Europe) are opened to the public for

free from dusk until 1:00am. This is an excellent chance to

visit The Louvre, and other famous museums (and enrich your experience and knowledge of European art and culture) all at no cost! As you’d imagine, this is a hugely popular occasion.

International Design Exhibition (INDEX)Where: Dubai, UAEWhen: May 19 – May 22What: ‘INDEX’ is the largest interior design show in the Middle East and North Africa region. It’s been going for 22 years and now covers all aspects of interior design from furnishings, furniture, giftware, homeware and lighting – to kitchen and bathroom designs, outdoor living ideas, textile products, and much more. Just over 20 900 visitors from 105 countries attended the INDEX show in 2013. This year should be as impressive as ever!

Chelsea Flower Show Where: Chelsea, London, EnglandWhen: May 20 – May 24 What: The Chelsea Flower Show never fails to make headlines around the world. It is definitely the most famous flower show in the United Kingdom (and probably the world) with over 150 000 visitors attending from all continents, every year. Highlights of the show are the gardens and flower arrangements created by leading contemporary designers; the centerpiece at the Floral Marquee; and a variety of smaller artisan and urban style gardens.

Jordan RallyWhere: Throughout JordanWhen: May 1 – 3 What: The Jordan Rally celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The region’s best drivers will once again be welcomed for two days of tough, but spectacular rallying. ‘We’ve finalised the road books and have prepared a rally that will be both demanding and very entertaining,’ say the organisers. The rally will follow a spectator-friendly route, starting from Amman, and will take in 273 kilometres of timed stages running through the Jordan Valley and Dead Sea region. FA Cup Final

Where: London, EnglandWhen: May 17What: This year’s FA Cup Final will return to being played six days after the conclusion of the English Premier League. This means the event returns to its traditional timeslot and will be the last game of the English football season. (This is the first time since 2010 this has happened). The FA Cup Final is the oldest knockout football event in the world, and anyone watching it in 2014 will once again be witnessing football history-in-the-making. The defending champions are Wigan Athletic, who beat Manchester City 1 – 0 in last year’s final.

French Open Tennis Where: Paris, FranceWhen: May 25 – June 8What: The ‘world’s premier clay court event’ at Roland Garros in Paris should be as furiously competitive as ever this year. Because of the slow-playing surface, the event is considered to be the most physically demanding tennis tournament in the world. The French Open is the second of the four annual Grand Slam tournaments – the other three being the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the US Open. Spain’s Rafael Nadal and American Serena Williams took the men’s and woman’s titles respectively, last year.

Diary

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Suan Pruek 99 Ultra Marathon

(4 May, Bangkok, Thailand).

WMA Super 7s Football Tournament

(6 May – 10 May, Malaysia, Countrywide).

French MotoGP Superbike Championship

(18 May, Le Mans, France).

PGA Golf Championship (22 May – 25 May, Wentworth, England).

Switzerland Ironman Triathlon

(31 May, Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland).

Al-Karma Craft: The Al-Karma or ‘Al-Kaaloa’ are palm frond containers for carrying milk and other drinks, and also frankincense. They are especially prominent in the Dhofari Province in southern Oman. While other cultures often make use of materials like wood, metal and mud to make containers, Al-Karmas are made only from date palm fronds (Al Ghodf) and sheep skin (often sourced from the Dhofar, Wusta and Dhahira regions).

Of course, palm frond containers can’t be placed directly over a fire in order to heat milk. So, the people of Dhofar traditionally placed heated rocks inside the Al-Karma until their milk was warmed. In some cases, cattle were milked directly over the Al-Karma, and this fresh milk was heated immediately by the heated rocks. Al-Karmas make attractive ornaments and décor items, and many are being made these days with this aesthetic in mind. A result is that the Al-Karma craft has been kept alive in Oman. Some valuable new job opportunities have also been created.

Copper Industry: The old name for Oman was ‘Majan’ – a term which referred to the region as a source of copper. Indeed, Oman has always been famous for its abundant copper ore resources and copper mining – and today, it continues to export copper to neighbouring countries. Traditional Omani products made from copper are home utensils such as spoons, ladles, vases, water bowls and coffee jugs.

Omani

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Our crafts our wealth

@PACI_OMAN Pacioman PACI_OMANPaci oman

Leather Crafts: Traditionally, the most important leather products in the Sultanate of Oman have been buckets, shoes, various kinds of container vessels, bags and sheaths. The items usually pass through several different stages – like the leather etching process, engraving and dyeing – before being ready for use.

Along with Paris, London and New York, the Italian city of Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Here’s a look at what makes Milan so magnificently fashionable. And why - if looking good and dressing well is something you think is important - it should be on your must-visit list for 2014.

MilanThe Fashion Capital of the World

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The designs that are modelled down the Milan runways dictate the trends for the fashion season to come

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Fashion and style has always been incredibly important to Milan and its people. As long ago as the Renaissance period, from around the 14th to 17th century, Milan was at the centre of Italy’s flourishing art, music, design, education and fashion culture.

Indeed, Milan was famous for its production of the finest-quality robes, textiles, shoes and elaborate dresses – which were all made from the highest quality textiles and materials, and which were in demand throughout Europe.

In more modern times, during the 1980s and 1990s, fashion firms in Milan like Armani, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana became internationally recognised, and highly successful.

This combination of Milan’s long history of art, style and design, combined with the city’s reputation as a provider of some of the most desirable clothes and fashion accessories, has ensured that Milan is always considered as a fashion capital of the world.

Milan Fashion Week

The famous Milan Fashion Week, which is held two times per year, is a few days of almost non-stop runway shows and events.

These provide a showcase of the work of top emerging fashion designers, and also the legendary ‘Made in Italy’ brands like Gucci, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace and Giorgio Armani.

The designs that are modelled down the runway are the designs that will dictate the trends in the fashion world for the following year. The autumn/winter event in February and then the spring/summer week in September are scheduled to coincide with the time of year that fashion designers launch their new ranges for the upcoming season.

The events dedicated to women’s fashion are the most important but menswear also features strongly in separate Milan Men’s Fashion Weeks – usually held in January and June.

If Milan’s long history of style is the backbone of its fashion industry, then the Milan Fashion Week events are what give it life and colour and energy every season –

and cause fashion lovers to keep coming back and being influenced by Milan fashion culture year after year.

Milan Street Style

But you don’t have to attend a Fashion Week to see the best of Milan-style fashion. It’s been noted many times that the Milanese people place a huge importance on beauty.

Official Fashion Capital? A Fashion Capital is a city that has a major influence on international fashion trends and is a key centre for the fashion industry, in which activities including the design, production and retailing of fashion products; and fashion events (such as fashion weeks and awards) generate significant economic output. Milan remains a strong contender for the top spot year-after-year.

The city of Milan has a reputation as a provider of

some of the most desirable clothes and fashion

accessories in the world

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Milan is a city of style. Some of the highlights include:

• The world-renowned La Scala Opera house, which first opened in 1778 and then re-opened in 2004 after

extensive renovation.

• Pirelli Tower, which is a magnificent example of 1960s modernist Italian architecture.

• The Santa Maria alle Grazie Basilica building, which contains Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting, The Last Supper.

• The Duomo – one of the biggest and grandest Gothic cathedrals in the world. (Milan has more ancient and monumental churches than any other European city outside of Italy).

• The Brera Art Gallery (and other art galleries), which contain some of the finest artistic works in Europe.

Travel Token: Handmade in Milan…A pair of handmade leather or suede gloves represents the ultimate in Milan fashion luxury. They tend to be an affordable fashion accessory for most visitors to Milan. And due to their size, they can easily be stored in your luggage to take back home. Sermoneta, which was founded by the glove-maker Giorgio Sermoneta in 1960, is the most famous producer in Milan.

They are famous for their sense of style and on any given day of the year, there will be dozens of men and women making their way around Milan’s urban centre – all dressed in an impeccable array of the most stylish outfits.

Many Milanese people also travel around the city on foot. So they have had to perfect the art of casual, but very stylish

dressing. Casual – because comfortable clothing is essential for walking in. And stylish – because looking good and dressing well is an integral part of the people of Milan’s culture and identity.

This great sense of style is self-evident in the fact that hundreds of fashion editors, bloggers, photographers and media ‘fashionistas’ around the world constantly look at so-called ‘Milan Street Style’ as inspiration for their work.

Retail: You are what you wear

The city’s most important shopping streets and districts for fashion include the Piazza del Duomo (with the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II) and the Quadrilatero Della Moda (including Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, Corso Venezia and Via Manzoni), which has plenty of exclusive, high-end fashion boutiques and outfitters. Other popular venues are the Via Dante, Piazza San Babila and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele II.

Corso Buenos Aires, located in north-eastern Milan, has over 350 shops and outlets, and is probably the most important shopping street in the city (it features the highest concentration of clothing stores in Europe).

In this relatively small area of the city, you can fully indulge yourself and get an exquisite overview of the best of Milan’s fashion culture, and view (and buy!) some of Europe’s finest clothes.

Milan’s Brera district is another popular retail spot. It has several interesting clothing boutiques – stocking more unconventional, ‘arty’ clothing. The Porta Ticinese quarter and the various streets in the area cater to more of an alternative youth market.

Milan’s magnificent La Scala Opera house

‘Fashion Travel’

When walking Milan’s streets, it can be fascinating to know you’re in the same place that some of the world’s greatest artists, stylists and fashion designers have lived and worked, throughout history. It’s hard not to be deeply affected by this.

A visit to Milan is also like a high education in modern fashion. The city is filled with great style and great design. The population takes its personal style very seriously, and dressing well and looking good is something that is constantly on the Milanese person’s mind. During and after a visit to Milan, you could easily start to have similar thoughts. In fact, it is easy to leave Milan feeling – and dressing! – a lot better.

Milan: FactsOman Air flies four times a week between Muscat – Milan.

Visa Requirements: Most citizens of countries outside the European Union require a visa to enter Italy. Valid passports are also normally required for entry. The official website www.esteri.it provides more information on entry requirements.

Languages spoken: Italian is the official language of Milan. Most Milanese can speak English to some extent, especially in areas that cater to tourists.

Currency: The official currency of Italy is the Euro (€/EUR). There are 100 cents in a Euro. Notes come in denominations of €500, €200, €100, €50, €20, €10 and €5. Coins come in €2, €1, 50c, 20c, 10c, 5c, 2c, and 1c denominations.

1 Euro (EUR) = 0.53 Omani Rial (OMR) 1 Euro (EUR) = 1.38 United States Dollar (USD) (April 2014)

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The architecture in Milan is equally as impressive as the city’s fashion culture

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But not all of them are easily seen. Welcome to the underground world of Oman - and some of its spectacular selection of caves.Abu Habban CaveOman is well known as a ‘Paradise of geology,’ as the Geological Society of Oman describes it. And Abu Habban Cave, with its fascinating array of rock formations – all in various tones and colours and textures, reflecting different types of rocks and minerals – is clear evidence of this. Location: A’Sharqiyah North Governorate.

Underground Oman? Underground Oman? The Sultanate of Oman is a land filled with physical and biological beauty. And it is blessed with many impressive natural landmarks.

The Sultanate of Oman is a land filled with physical and biological beauty. And it is blessed with many impressive natural landmarks.

The visitor shuttle train is an interesting highlight of the Al Hoota Cave experience

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23Al Hoota Cave

Al Hoota Cave apparently extends for a spectacular 4.5 kilometres underground. However, rules for visitors mean that you’ll only be able to explore about 500 metres of that – up to the place where the cave comes to an end at Al Hoota’s Cave Lake. The lake is about 15 metres deep (some parts are deeper) and home to a type of small fish that is blind, coloured a translucent pink, and quite rare. A guided tour of the cave lasts about 45 minutes. Location: A’Dakhiliyah Governorate.

Al Kittan Cave

Al Kittan Cave is one of the caves in Oman that can only be explored with a qualified caving guide due to its inaccessible nature. But as far as the beauty of caves goes, Al Kittan is exquisite. It is often called the ‘Marble Cave’ due to the luminosity of the marble rock of the caves walls. It also features some impressive geological formations – as well as a set of rock engravings. Location: A’Dakhiliyah Governorate.

Jernan Cave

The walled town of Izki features a collection of mud brick buildings, and is sometimes referred to as the oldest town in Oman. Jernan Cave is unique in that it run directly under the ancient Al Nizar village at Izki. Location: A’Dakhiliyah Governorate.

Al Hoota Cave is one of Oman’s most popular travel spots. The cave formations are estimated to be over 2 million years old

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Majlis Al Jinn Cave

Majlis Al Jinn Cave is one of the most impressive and magnificent wonders of the natural world – and it is the second largest cave chamber in the world (as measured by the surface area of the floor). The dimensions of the chamber are 310 metres long by

225 metres wide – and the dome shaped ceiling tops out at 120 metres. Despite how huge Majlis Al Jinn is in the inside, it is difficult to detect it from the surface, as the only evidence of its existence are three small openings. The only way to descend into the cave is by ropes. Location: A’Sharqiyah South Governorate.

The interior of the spectacular Majlis Al Jinn Cave

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26Moqal Cave

At Moqal Cave, the sound of underground water flowing through channels in its rock walls is mesmerising. Moqal is one Oman’s easiest caves to explore. After you’ve discovered the depths and darkness of Moqal, the rest of the day can be spent relaxing around the nearby rock pools of the beautiful (and very green) Wadi Bani Khalid. Location: A’Sharqiyah North Governorate.

Al Marnif Cave

Al Marnif Cave is at Al Mughsayl Beach, an area about 40 kilometres south-west from Salalah. The cave overlooks the Arabian Sea, as well as the famous Al Mughsayl fountains (blow-holes). Location: Governorate of Dhofar.

Tawi Ateer Sinkhole

and Teeq Cave

Tawi Ateer Sinkhole, known as the ‘Bird Well’ gained international fame after its discovery in 1997 by a team of Slovenian explorers in collaboration with Sultan Qaboos University as one of the largest solvent sinkholes in the world. Teeq Sinkhole’s diameter is around 130 to 150 metres wide and its depth is just over 200 metres. The Teeq Cave is near the top of the sinkhole.Location: Governorate of Dhofar.

Recently, after meeting with Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, two of the world’s best rock climbers, Stefan Glowacz (Germany) and Chris Sharma (USA), teamed up to attempt to climb the central cavern of the famous Majlis al Jinn Cave in Oman. The route, which had never been attempted before, took the climbers from the base of the cave (which is well over a 100 metres below the surface of the earth) up through

The first-ever attempt to rock climb the roof of the famous Majlis al Jinn Cave

the over-hanging walls and sometimes horizontal roofs of the cave, back to earth’s surface, and ‘Into the Light.’The route counts as the world’s longest ‘roof climb’ with a series of 13 sections or ‘pitches’ of climbing required in order to reach the top – or in the case of Majlis al Jinn Cave – the surface. But both athletes combined their expertise (and a lot of hard climbing work) to eventually finish the route.

Climbing into the Light

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Wadi Bani KhalidLocated just over 200 kilometres south-east of Muscat

in the Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, Wadi Bani Khalid is considered one of the most

beautiful (and greenest) wadis in the Sultanate of Oman. It is definitely worth a visit!

Longitude: 22° 37’ 45.2” N Latitude:59° 05’ 23.9” E

The journey to Wadi Bani Khalid is a highlight in itself. To get there, travellers have to drive past the spectacular rock formations of the Eastern Al Hajar Mountains to arrive at Bidiyyah village, hidden deep in the mountain valleys, and then continue on through similar terrain to Wadi Bani Khalid.

The constant supply of groundwater flowing through Wadi Bani Khalid makes it

one of the greenest and most fertile wadis in Oman.

The wadi’s trees, patches of vegetation and village

plantations are ideal spots for enjoying a pre-packed

breakfast, lunch or afternoon barbeque.

There are picnic huts, bridges, steps and stone-concrete

platforms at the large rockpool. All add to the user-

friendliness of the place.

On most weekends, there will be dozens of people swimming,

jumping off the cliffs into the pools, exploring the wadi’s

canyons and caves, and generally having a good time.

Wadi Bani Khalid is like a natural ‘waterworld’ theme

park. Besides the streams and deep pools, there are sections of slippery rock that make fun

natural water slides.

Many visitors make the short trek to Moqal Cave (it’s often

called the ‘underground chamber’), located at the

wadi’s upper section.

The streams and pools are filled with crystal clear water most of the year. After heavy rain, due to natural sediment run-off, the water turns a

milky brown colour. The springs of Ain Hamouda, Ain Al Sarooj and Ain Dawwa

converge together at Wadi Bani Khalid to form a huge, natural

rockpool.

Wadi Bani Khalid forms the starting point of a serious (but spectacular)

multiple-day trekking adventure that ends

at Wadi Tiwi, near the Gulf of Oman

coastline.

The desert dunes of Sharqiyah Sands begin just south of Wadi

Bani Khalid and continue for almost 200 kilometres in a north-

to-south direction.

High Intensity Exercise: Can less really be more?Could just a few minutes of exercise a week be good for your health? Apparently it can. According to a number of studies (as well as a large number of fitness fanatics that can’t stop talking about it), short and intense ‘High Intensity Training’ workouts are the way to go.

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Conventional thinking in the exercise world has traditionally maintained that from three to seven exercise sessions per week – lasting around 30 minutes or more per session – is an acceptable amount of physical activity for us to maintain a healthy level of fitness.

But more recently, exercise professionals have been pointing out that much greater health and fitness benefits can be had from so-called High Intensity Training workouts.

By definition, these workouts last for much shorter time periods and are less frequent – but the effort and intensity re-quired for each session is much higher. (‘High Intensity Interval Training’ also describes workouts that involve intense bursts of activity followed by periods of less-intense activity or even rest).

They’re apparently very good for us, and also very popular. According to many reports, the ‘less is more’ approach of High Intensity Training is a top fitness trend for 2014.

High Intensity Training can be applied to all modes of exercise, but it is especially applicable to cardiovascular activities like running, swimming, biking, rowing or circuit-style training in the gym.

This is because these exercises can be very effective in increasing your heart rate. The central idea is to exercise for a shorter period of time, but to make it harder by increasing the intensity (faster speed, increased stroke-rate etc). This gets your heart and cardiovascular system working at a rate that ensures optimal health and fitness benefits.

So for example, instead of going for a 30 minute run at your normal, steady pace – let’s call it 50% of your maximum speed – you could reduce that time down to around 5 to 10 minutes or even less, and run at around 70% to 90% of your maximum. Studies show that this can have the same if not more benefits compared to longer, less intense exercise sessions.

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No Pain No Gain!For many participants, the increased workload and the so-called ‘no pain no gain’ approach of High Inten-sity Training is an exciting and challenging way to stay in shape. More benefits include:

1. Time Management: High Intensity Training is an excellent way to maximise the effectiveness of a workout when you’re limited with time.

2. Weight Loss: Research also suggests that High Intensity Training is more effective for weight loss, as larger percentages of calories are burned dur-ing and after a workout.

3. Simplicity: No specialised or expensive equipment is needed. The only requirement is that you can increase the intensity of the activity – running, swimming, cycling etc.

4. Athletic Performance: For well-trained athletes, consistent improvements in performance can be difficult to achieve. Research has shown that High Intensity Training workouts can boost athletic performance when other training methods are not yielding results.

5. Regulating Metabolism: Among many other health benefits, High Intensity Training has been linked to the regulation of important metabolic processes like insulin regulation, metabolic rate, and the stimulation of Human Growth Hormone.

The convenience, efficiency and fast results associ-ated with High Intensity Training mean that this style of working out is probably here to stay.

But remember, just because you’re exercising for a shorter time, no one is saying it’s going to be easier. You’ll still have to work hard. Your body, of course, will appreciate it!Not every exercise is perfect.

One of the drawbacks of High Intensity Training is

that if participants increase the level of intensity of each

workout too quickly, they run the risk of incurring an injury. To minimize this risk, the level of intensity of each successive workout should

be increased gradually.

Here are ten characteristics that have repeatedly been associated with successful entrepreneurs around the world.

Entrepreneurs have been defined in many ways. A simple definition would read ‘People who commercialise their own innovations.’ Or ‘People who pursue opportunities without regard to resources they currently control.’ Or even, ‘Someone willing and able to convert a new idea or invention into a successful innovation.’

If you’re an entrepreneur, you’ll have your own definition of what you do. You’ll most likely also have an important list of essential traits required to run a successful business. Here are some characteristics that have been associated time and time again with the best business owners and entrepreneurs in the world…

1. Tenacity: It’s been mentioned repeatedly that the number one trait of all successful entrepreneurs is their ability to keep going through tough times (and the good times) in their business, without giving up. But the key to truly tenacious and clever entrepreneurship is to keep seeking better and more efficient ways to do things. Instead of repeating the similar mistakes again and again.

Ten Entrepreneur Essentials

2. Vision: When first starting out, many entrepreneurs are driven by an overriding passion to succeed. But only with a clear vision for future growth, can they make the most out of this enthusiasm. A clear vision and set of goals also makes day-to-day decision-making processes easier.

3. Self-belief: Business coaches point out that lack of self-belief and self-confidence in entrepreneurs is one of the greatest stumbling blocks preventing them from achieving their goals. But they also point out that self-belief and self-confidence is something that can be learned, nurtured and developed in anyone.

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Healthy Mind: Healthy Business

Many well-known and highly successful entrepreneurs maintain that a healthy level of physical fitness (and a

healthy diet) is vital to their success in business.

4. Flexibility: When they come into contact with the market, even great business ideas rarely work exactly as planned. Entrepreneurs that quickly adapt to new challenges or unforeseen circumstances and improvise along the way are successful in the long run.

5. Risk Taking: Risk taking and a certain ‘willingness to fail’ have always been listed as traits of successful entrepreneurs. But being a risk-taker does not mean being reckless. Risk taking is more about spotting new opportunities in the market place and wholeheartedly capitilising on them despite the possibility of failure.

6. Creativity: Successful entrepreneurs are aware that creative and innovative thinking is required not only for the initial idea and inspiration for their business, but also for the implementation and ongoing development and growth of a business. Great entrepreneurs are constantly creating and innovating.

7. Leadership: Good entrepreneurial leaders clearly and effectively communicate their vision to all employees, and they take the steps necessary to inspire, encourage, support, and assist in developing everyone involved in their organisation.

8. Interpersonal Skills: Having adequate human resources is a key factor for entrepreneurial achievement. The way a business owner networks and builds these business relationships and resources is with competent interpersonal skills. And of course, interpersonal skills can be learned and developed and perfected.

The Entrepreneurship Eco-system?

A so-called Entrepreneurship Eco-system is a term used to refer to the individuals, organisations or institutions (in

fact, any element or entity) that either helps or inhibits the success of an entrepreneur. For example, if an

entrepreneur operates in a state with few bureaucratic obstacles, and in which the government policies support the unique needs of entrepreneurs, it could be said that

their entrepreneurship eco-system is healthy. Another example would be an entrepreneur that operates in a

society that actively encourages and invites financiers to participate in new business ventures.

9. Problem Solving: Solving problems and getting things done is the vital connection between the plan and vision for a business – and it’s ultimate outcome. Successful entrepreneurs make a habit of creating value for their business and their clients by solving problems.

10. Ability to Sell: Whether they want to be or not, most great entrepreneurs turn out to be great sales people. This entails selling not only their products and services to their market – but selling ideas and their vision to employees and potential investors.

Business& Tech36

WorldView38

A ‘graveyard’ artwork of broken and half-buried surfboards is seen at the annual Sculpture by the Sea event at Cottesloe Beach in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images).

In the South Korean city of Yongin, a person spins fire cans while playing the folk game ‘Jwibulnoli’. The game forms part of a national holiday that celebrates the first full moon of the lunar new year. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images).

A slow shutterspeed photograph shows evening traffic in Shanghai, China. Shanghai is the major hub of China’s expressway network and many national roads pass through or end here. (Photo by Peter Parks/AFP/Getty Images).

Slow Shanghai

Keelung Quack!

Ring of Fire

Bury Your boards…

Fashion &Trends40

Accessible, ready-to-wear luxuryThe London-based designer, Monika Csutak, says her spring/summer range is all about accessible, ready-to-wear luxury that can be worn during the day in a casual setting – but also at a more formal event in the evening. All items feature perfectly-fitted tailoring to ensure elegant, striking silhouettes – and each garment is made from selections of beautiful wool-crepes, laces, silk-organza and silk fabrics from France and Italy. www.monikacsutak.com

Summer holiday styleThe latest collection from London-based Gieves & Hawkes is inspired by the traditions of made-to-order tailoring, combined with sartorial, military and sportswear styling. All fabrics used are featherweight in the finest wool, linen/silk and Egyptian cotton – and colours revolve around soft earth tones, ivory and beige with rose, navy, khaki and dark brown. The designers say the range is perfect for a world-wide summer holiday! www.gievesandhawkes.com

Fashion &Trends 41

Oman Light Team The Oman Light Team is a collection of young Omani photographers and creatives who, for about fifteen years, have been documenting and recording the Oman aesthetic through its landscapes, mountains, seascapes, castles and forts, people and local food. And of course, the smiles of the Omani children! The team showcases the majority of their work via their website and social media pages – which literally have thousands of pictures (and more recently, videos) that reflect the exquisite beauty of the Sultanate. www.omanlight.com

OmanView42

TravellerThe 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 (2014) : 4 000 345 (1 767 396 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

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Savvy

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 500, 250, 100, 50, 25, 10 and 5 Baizas.

50 baiza

25 baiza

10 baiza

5 baiza

50 Rials

20 Rials

10 Rials

5 Rials

1 Rial

1/2 Rial

100 baiza

TravelGuide 45

In an upright position, leaning back into your chair, engage your abdominal and ‘core’ muscles and hold for several seconds.

In-flightExercises

While in an upright position with a straight back, gently move your head forward and backwards, and from side to side several times.

While flying, it is important to keep your muscles and body activated and moving.

Try these exercises from time to time during your flight.

While in an upright position with a straight back, move forwards and backwards in your seat.

Flex each individual knee and foot up and down alternatively.

Healthy Flying: Tips for a healthier,

happier flight

Before boarding:• Get a good night sleep before your

scheduled flight.

• Eat moderately. Flying with a full stomach can be uncomfortable.

• Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing should be worn.

• Sleeping pills should only be taken if recommended to you by a physician.

• Make sure to drink in enough fluids to stay hydrated in the hours leading up to your flight.

• Remember to include some in-flight entertainment in your hand luggage – books, magazines, and an e-reader, tablet or smartphone etc.

On board: • Flying across time zones disrupts your

body’s biological clock, and often causes jet lag. As soon as you’re on board, adjust the time on your watch to that of your destination. This will help you prepare mentally for the new time zone.

• Drink enough water to stay hydrated, and limit your intake of caffeine, which can cause dehydration.

• Get up out of your seat for a walk every hour to get your circulation going. Or do the light exercises recommended on this page.

• If you are suffering from nasal congestion or allergies, use a nasal decongestant 30 to 40 minutes before the descent to help open up your sinuses and ear passages. This will help you ‘equalise’ and clear the pressure in your ears as you descend.

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At our blog www.omanairblog.net there are more interesting articles on the

Sultanate of Oman, and the destinations Oman Air flies to.

And finally, please visit our official website www.omanair.com for everything you need to know about flying with the Sultanate of

Oman’s national carrier.

Welcome to Oman Air’s social page. We love hearing about your travel and flying experiences with us. Next time you’re online, please post a comment on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/omanair or Tweet us at @omanair. Here are some updates and comments recently seen on our social pages…

Our YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/user/OmanAirCompany) is where you can see all what Oman Air offers its passengers – and also why the Sultanate of Oman is such a special destination. Oman Air’s video, ‘Dive Oman’ showcases the best of what the Sultanate has for undersea explorers. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPV_e1PsFEg).

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Oman Air triumphs for fourth year running at TravelPlus Airline

Amenity Bag Awards

Oman Air has triumphed at this year’s TravelPlus Airline Amenity Bag Awards – the

fourth year in a row that the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman has been recognised at this prestigious aviation industry event.

The TravelPlus Gold Award for Best First Class Male Amenity Bag was presented to Oman Air at a glittering ceremony in Hamburg, after 120 submissions were considered for 20 categories of the awards.

This year’s success follows the introduction at the end of 2013 of new First Class amenity bags, which were

designed exclusively for Oman Air by Gate Group and include everything the premium traveller could want to ensure that they arrive at their destination relaxed and looking at their best.

Oman Air has previously won two Gold awards and one Silver award in 2011, two Gold awards and one Bronze award in 2012 and one Gold award in 2013.

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Oman Air recognises Sultanate’s Travel Agents at Awards Ceremony

Lights go out as Oman Air marks Earth Hour

Skilled, organised and dedicated

Oman Air has recognised the contribution of the Sultanate of Oman’s travel agents to the airline’s success in 2013. Gold, Silver and Bronze awards were presented to the top travel agents of 2013 at a ceremony which was held at the Al Bustan Palace, the Ritz Carlton Group’s prestigious hotel, near the Omani capital of Muscat.

The Gold Award was presented to Bahwan Travel Agencies (BTA) LLC, Silver went to Travel City LLC, and the Bronze

The lights went out across Oman Air’s network of 43 international destinations, as Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, joined millions of people around the world in marking Earth Hour.

Earth Hour is a campaign which was launched by the WWF in 2007. It has since grown into a global

Muna Al Riyami currently works as the Senior Instructor in Oman Air’s Service Training department. She joined Oman Air in 2006, and spent 7 years as a cabin crew member, and then Senior Flight Supervisor (SFS), where she raised the bar with her attitude to work. After this, she moved to the Service Training department as the Senior Instructor.

Some of Muna’s many job responsibilities now include implementing the training and analysis needed to achieve effective learning solutions; developing and writing training

award was received by Oman United Agencies (OUA) LLC. A number of other travel agencies were also recognised and received awards for their continued efforts and support.

The ceremony was presided over by Oman Air’s Chief Commercial Officer Abdulrazaq Alraisi, General Manager Worldwide Sales, Gopal Ramarao, and Senior Manager Sales – GMA Region, Jaffar Juma Al Lawati.

Oman AirNews 49

movement which crowdsources actions from individuals, businesses, organisations and governments to generate environmental outcomes, encouraging innovation and creativity for the planet.

The airline’s headquarters in Muscat, Oman, took the lead for Oman Air and was joined by all its stations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Africa in confirming its commitment to protecting the environment. Only Oman Air’s essential services were exempt from taking part in the initiative.

Oman Air’s participation in this year’s Earth Hour continues the airline’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact. Ongoing initiatives include energy reduction and waste reduction strategies, increasing the local sourcing of supplies, operating smaller aircraft on short haul routes and replacing older aircraft with new, more fuel-efficient models. This includes the forthcoming delivery of six Boeing B787 Dreamliners, which are 20 per cent more fuel efficient, deliver 20 per cent fewer emissions, and offer a 60 per cent smaller noise footprint than equivalent aircraft.

manuals; recruitment of cabin crew members; and training and certifying cabin crew members in the discipline of in-flight service.

‘I moved to service delivery to contribute more effectively to an established organisation in the discipline of Service Learning & Development. With over 9 years of experience in the aviation industry, I can now confidently handle the development, delivery and enhancement of courses in the field of soft skills, customer service, service delivery, grooming standards, in-flight retail sales and in-flight services,’ Muna explains.

Muna is a meticulous and organised person, and she has a confidence that is a result of her dedication to her work – and her willingness to work hard. ‘I feel blessed to be working with the National Carrier of Oman,’ she says, and adds that it would be a matter of pride for any citizen of Oman to do the same.

Earn & Spend Sindbad Miles Sindbad membership earns you Sindbad miles both in the air and on the ground. Fly with Oman Air, our partner airlines or transact with any of our global network Partners and earn Sindbad miles. You can choose to spend your Sindbad miles for free flights, flight upgrades, exciting raffles, promotions and more.

Benefits and Privileges• Complimentary Airport Lounge Access

• Extra baggage allowance of up to 20 Kg

• Duty Free discounts of up to 10% discount on Oman Air In-flight Duty Free

• Check-in at Priority Counter

• Priority baggage handling

• Double miles on your first flight

• Bonus miles, discounts and special offers from Partners

• Buy, Gift and Share Miles

Earn miles for flights made up to 3 months prior to your enrolment. Join today by visiting

Sindbad.omanair.com or ask your hostess for an enrolment form.

Hello and welcome to Sindbad, the frequent flyer program of Oman Air. Whether you’re

travelling on business or going on a holiday, join Sindbad today

and make your journey with Oman Air even more rewarding.

Exclusive Privileges & BenefitsSindbad has three tiers to offer- Blue, Silver and Gold. The more you fly with Oman Air, the higher your Tier. As a Silver and Gold member, you earn additional privileges designed exclusively for you.

Sindbad PartnersAs a Sindbad member, you have the added benefit of earning extra miles as well as special offers from our global network of partners which include Hotel, Leisure and Lifestyle, Car rental, Telecommunication and Retail Partners.

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