Sonakshi at LFW Italian desserts z Page 13 z Page 10

Glorious sunsets and beach BBQs at Abnormal breathing triggers Bandar Khairan z Pages 8&9 hyperactivity z Pages 14

Wednesday, March 7, 2012 Weekend

Muscat International Book Fair making words go further — Page 16 Weekend HERITAGE2 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012

Bait Al Zubair showcases Omani village life

in presenting the country’s heritage and culture to strating how to use natural resources to fulfil the the visitors. people’s basic needs. Bait Al Zubair is a private museum in Mus- The displays comprise various aspects reflect- cat; it opened its doors to the public in 1998. This ing the Omani architecture and everyday life in- museum is intended to display Al Zubair family’s cluding small forts, castles and houses as well collection of the Omani artefacts that have been as a spectacular landscape of mountains, wadis, preserved for centuries. The building is one of the aflaj, grassland, and even people doing their daily country’s architectural icons and in 1999 it was routine and minding their business. Those breath- awarded His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Award for taking attractions are aimed to offer a unique and Architectural Excellence. The museum complex charming experience to all visitors. consists of five separate buildings that are Bait Al Through observing the displays of the Omani Bagh, Bait Al Oud, Bait Al Dalaleel, Bait Al Nah- village at the museum, you will surely get a first- dhah and the museum gift shop. hand experience about the rural life of Omanis in Bait Al Zubair Museum is one of ’s most the past. This would also help you portrait a clear popular destinations. It is committed to showcase picture of the pristine Omani culture and daily a wide range of important spectacular works of lifestyle. The architecture of traditional buildings art reflecting the outstanding Omani heritage and is characterised by its simple lines and maintains culture that define the Omani society — both past an understated elegance of its own. The castles, and present. Various traditional craft exhibits are forts and walls, for example, are evidence to an displayed in different buildings at the museum. architectural style that serves the purpose of de- Among the historical monuments and cultural fence. attractions at Bait Al Zubair Museum is the sym- Like the country’s diverse topography, archi- bol of the Omani traditional Village which is built tectural styles vary in Oman with the change of in the yard to attract visitors. The new miniature landscape and surroundings. The types of houses By Abdulaziz al Jahdhami Omani culture is the unique architecture of houses displays of the traditional Omani village were of- and building materials reflect the variety of the which reflect the authentic Omani civilisation. ficially unveiled as part of the museum’s celebra- unique Omani architecture. There are houses built NE of the best parts of Omani culture is Museums play a vital role in presenting and tions to mark the 40th National Day in December on mountains in different parts of Oman while oth- the traditional Omani lifestyle still being keeping alive the Omani history and culture for 2010. ers are built near the sea or in countryside areas. Opracticed with its various features almost the new generations, visitors and residents of The miniature displays reflects the simplicity The evolution of architecture is a measure of a na- all over the country. The traditional villages in dif- Oman. One of the most renowned museums that and roughness of the daily lifestyle of Omanis at tion’s civilisation and Oman thrives with a number ferent governorates of the country represent the ru- strive to preserve the Omani culture and heritage that time. It also demonstrates the scope of its ad- of cultural buildings that stand as a testament to ral life of the people in the past. Part of the pristine is Bait Al Zubair Museum. It has a unique way aptation to the surrounding environment, demon- this art. — Pictures by Saeed al Harrassi

Bait Al Zubair Museum is one of Muscat’s most popular destinations. It is committed to showcase a wide range of important spectacular works of art reflecting the outstanding Omani heritage and culture that define the Omani society — both past and present. Various traditional craft exhibits are displayed in different buildings at the museum Weekend TOURISM3 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 WINDOW

By Ahmed al Falahi [email protected] Let us agree to disagree ISAGREEMENT is inherent in hu- man nature. All societies are based Don various aspects of agreement Haramel, an unspoilt stretch of coastline andand disagreement at the same time. Perhaps itit iiss natural that disagreement and agree- mentmen came together ever since mankind began its first step towards life. The early conflict between Adam’s sons — Cain and Abel — is one of the disputes that retain its position in the list of continuum differences between humans since the early history of mankind, even today and all the way to the end of life on earth. We must not forget also the significant dispute shown by the devil with the Lord Almighty where Adam was sent out of paradise so his nation continue the battle of difference and agreement until the Day of Judgement. Some see that disagreement and agree- ment is a correct human situation, without them, mankind wouldn’t have reached the progress, growth and prosperity it achieved today. As the rule says: “Let us disagree so that we reach a state of agreement”. With- out the questing nature and doubts that By Ra’al al Jardaniya Yankat, Yiti, Al Khairan al Sifa and dition has it, fishing is one of the traditional lifestyle at the same time came into man’s mind at the early ages, he Sifat al Sheikh. foremost livelihoods in the Wilayat gives this little town its unique would not have shown all this creativity HE Wilayat of Muscat One of these ten villages is Hara- of Muscat and most of its citizens character. Residents of Haramel to change what was not accepted; and he sprints along the Sea of mel. Many people driving from Al have a passionate interest in fishing. are very social, and helpful. It’s the would not have made this universe an ac- TOman across a long moun- Bustan to Muscat city do not recog- Many of Haramel residents are sail- perfect place to discover the real ceptable place for his works helping him to tain range which extends from nise and notice that there is a small ors, expert in fishing and in the craft traditional life of Muscat because use his abilities to live a normal, acceptable Bandar Najih adjacent to the turn on their right side which leads of sewing nets. of their attachment to their customs life leading him to what he aspires to be- Wilayat of Muttrah on the north to a small village on the seaside The government has taken all and traditions as well as adopting come. Here a free area for dialogue appears western side. Here the villages and called Haramel. necessary steps to preserve this the modernity of these days. leading to a life shared by humans. When mountains of Muscat extend as Haramel, located a few kilome- livelihood, and provided the fisher- Tourists visit this village gener- people use the language of dialogue, the far as the village of Al Sifa at the tres from the Al Alam Palace and men of Sidab and Haramel with a ally for boat cruising, and enjoying difference will shrink, and the mind reaches borders of the Wilayat of Quriyat Sidab, is a beautiful coastal village. model fishing village. the sea and the mountains from dif- a state of comfort. This is a very high case in the south east. Muscat has nine Fishing is the lifeline of this village The distinctive feature of this lit- ferent spots of the same area. Also, and can be rarely achieved in reality with villages joined to it — Sidab, Hara- and this tradition has been passed tle village is worth to be discovered. they enjoy the harmony of nature on its absolute image. Relativity remains the mel, Al Bustan, Al Jussa, Qantab, down through generations. As tra- The tangible mixing of modern and an excursion to Bander al Jissah. continuing hope for getting comfort as real- ity has the ability to overcome many of the cases of clash between the difference and the agreement. Probably many people agree with Dr Abd al Hameed al Ansari in his vision on dialogue issue when he says, “Dialogue means to accept people as they are, not as we want them to be. It doesn’t mean to ac- cept their views or opinions but to accept him like a brother having the same rights that I have so I don’t confiscate his opinion or hurt him in anyway. Between the two — agreement and disa- greement — there is the dialogue coming to free some space to accept others and to go away a little from the undesired competi- tive atmosphere. So let us agree and disa- gree and let dialogue be the light of these divisions. Weekend CITY4 TALK WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012

‘Have Omani women’s outlook widened At My Workplace! Majid Said with active participation programmes?’ al Suleimany www.majidall.com ES of course, the role of UNDERSTAND that Oman Ywomen has broadened in Iis one of the fewest countries the past few years. His Majesty that have more freedom and Sultan has set October 17 as equality for women in the region. Omani Women’s Day. The day Omani women for instance, are is celebrated every year with on equal footing with their male diverse activities and programmes counterparts in terms of salaries focusing on further broadening in both the public and the private the role of Omani women. The sectors, while the women in many HE last few months of his life before my father participants make it a point to other parts of the world are still passed away, he had difficulty in hearing and present ideas on how to develop battling to be paid in parity with we had to shout to hear us. The reason was he re- personality traits in women and the men. For all this the Omani T fused to wear the hearing aid that we gave him because change stereotypical concepts it made him 'feel uncomfortable' too! Unfortunately all HE role of women in various human development is a positive about women’s abilities. In short, the screaming and shouting were in vain — because fields is undeniable. They step in this direction. The policy T during my latest visit I could see he looked at us perplexed not hearing a word we were have entered almost all aspects approach of ‘one size fits for all’ is that the Omani women are doing saying! In the end people simply gave up — and the of work and proved that they also not appropriate in the context poor man could be seen as miserable — as no one was deserve the trust that has been of divergent socioeconomic talking to him now! accorded to them by His Majesty. conditions prevalent in different I bring in the same metaphor for what is going on Omani Women are witnessing parts of the world. now in the offices — particularly the older ones with broadening horizons in their life — Thresi Varghese as is manifested in the recently the same Management Team and The Board that has been in existence for the last few decades even. If those held Women’s Symposium IS Majesty Sultan Qaboos of you will remember many of my articles on the same which showcased the women’s announced October 17 as H subject — with the likes of The Office Dictators in The significant role in nation-building the Omani Women’s Day during Between Us Only! series books (three) — please visit and their important contribution his ‘Meet the People’ in Seih al women will forever be grateful to www.majidbooks.com for more details! to sustainable development. Makarim in the Wilayat of Sohar their governance system and the I was talking to a good friend of mine whom I have Oman always focuses on four in 2009. We are now heading ruler. — Filip Remenec nicknamed as 'The Survivor' — because all of us es- main points: Omani women’s towards the third Omani Women’s pecially in Human Resources — for some of you still leading social role; women in the Day which comes as a recognition OMEN play a more active Personnel — and the more worse kind as simply as Majlis Ash’shura; role of women of the women’s role and a further a wonderful job thanks to the Wand visible role in society Administration! — through phases and stages of time in the economy and business; and incentive and encouragement constant training and development in Oman than in most of the have voluntarily and not voluntarily quitted for other the place of women in the laws to them to participate as active programmes of the government. Arabian Peninsula, where the places and dominions per se! This even for those most and legislations. partners along with their male — Dalia role of women is still restricted. close and confidantes of the Big Boss (though he too — Mona al Maamari counterparts in the development Women here have received had now left!). The good self lasted only 9 months — of the nation. The Seih al Makarim OMEN’S empowerment is encouragement and support and that was really after really trying hard! STRONGLY feel that had it symposium had made several Wa process whereby women from the government, which So last time I came from Dubai by road I decided not been for the wisdom of His recommendations in the fields of I are able to organise themselves provides schooling and university to drop in at the guy's office unannounced — and un- Majesty, Omani women wouldn’t the laws and regulations pertaining to increase their self-reliance, education for girls on par with invited. I asked my good friend — Please give me the have reached such high positions, to the family, and the enhancement to assert their independent right tricks of how you had been able to survive with him for and there wouldn’t have been of the women’s role in economic to make choices and to control that long — and not even like me supposed to be a Hu- a Women’s Day to be observed development, the encouragement resources which will assist in man Resources Professional for that matter! every year in recognition for of social initiatives to actualise challenging and eliminating His answer shocks and awes me — he replies to me their role towards the nation and the principles of partnership and their subordination. Empowering — I look at the person in contempt and in disdain — the community. There is still corporate responsibility. The women is one of the most crucial and in my heart and mind there is no respect — because a long way to go and it needs majority of Omani women wear concerns of the Millennium as I am talking to myself that I am dealing with a stupid patience and perseverance so colourful clothes arranged in loose Development Goals of the United and erratic person. Like dealing with a child in fits cry- that in the end all Omani citizens and flowing layers. The reds, Nations. One of the national ing for something not able to be given to him — and can achieve self-realisation and oranges and ochre's of their gowns priorities and goals of the Human exterior wise I force myself to sound pleasant, recep- make a brilliant splash of colour in Resource Development Strategic tive and cheerful — lest he sees through me. In other the old streets of the inland towns Plan outlined by the Social Sector words I just detest and disrespect him fully from the and in the fields and palm groves. of the Ministry of Economic inside — whilst exterior is something else! Especially Last but not the least, Risalati, the Development in Sultanate of when he screams and shouts like a mental sick case! campaign to thank His Majesty, Oman, includes the vision of the He continues — in other words if he knew what has received good response from development of women, upgrading that of boys, and has decreed that was going on inside me — I would get the sack im- Omani women. — Aaron their status and facilitating their women should be given career mediately. But he will never know and find out — at integration into the total social opportunities and equal pay. In least from me directly! What is the point of banging my development. Economic self- the capital many women now head against brick walls — though I may admire you sufficiency is necessary, though have jobs, especially with the but I can never be like you — showing openly what it is not a sufficient condition for government. In the countryside is inside you! I think he was smiling knowingly and empowerment of women. Public too, women have always played tauntingly — with the last words! policies are extremely important an active role in the agricultural Sometimes one wishes there was a foreseeing Board to strengthen the legal institutions communities. They are generally and Tribunal that just announced early morning by bul- prove that they are capable of that guarantee equal rights and not self-effacing and may be shouldering the onus His Majesty letins the dismissals of these kind of erratic irrational opportunities to women. The willing to talk to strangers, once irresponsible despotic bosses — and even Board mem- has entrusted on them and that the recent policy framework of the ice has been broken. But they Omani nationals really deserve to bers — for the rest to behave and conform — and to international agencies such as are deeply religious and should bring in new blood that are more educated, qualified be honoured by the state. the World Bank that emphasise always be treated with respect. — Nazeih Taleb Mahrouf and wiser and more pragmatic. Until that time — like I institutional reforms along with — Mohammed al Humaid always say — Offices will remain as a place that causes a lot of frictions, tensions and wear and tear at the na- Next topic: “Why should we not let go the occasions of a hearty laugh?” tional fabric — with more domestic problems — and If you wish to offer your brief comments on this subject, please e-mail us at: [email protected] more road accidents and fatalities too! including your name and passport-size photograph. — Compiled by Kabeer Yousuf Take Care! Weekend ART5 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Learning to express oneself through painting

ggraphicraphic ddesigningesigning anandd hherer ability to link her drawing talent with modern tech- nologies using computer software. Thus, she opted to specialise in graphic de- sign to take advantage of both. Usually, artists like to paint on different materials such as canvas leather, but what makes Sahar special on this field is her ability to draw and paint amazingly on scarves. Sahar has participated in many exhibitions locally and internationally. For in- stance, she participated in various exhibitions organ- ised at Sultan Qaboos Uni- versity, Al Harthy Com- plex, Al Sahwa Schools, Muscat Private School, By Ra’al al Jardaniya al Balushiya, a student of Oman International Exhi- graphic design at the Sci- bitions Centre, Nizwa Uni- HILE most of entific College of Design, versity, Muscat Festival us like to draw started to draw and paint 2008, University of Sharja, randomly with a when she was a 5-year- University of Ajman as W well as many other local pen or a pencil, some draw old child. At that time she for the passion of drawing. used to love paint on col- and international compe- dreams which they should ner feelings and express Their pieces of art may ouring books, doing small titions for which she re- strive to achieve. Sahar as them with mixed colours. seem meaningless, but for drawings as children do. ceived many prizes. a beginner artist wishes to Through my paintings, I them it’s a way of express- However, once she joined Every line a talented be a renowned and skill- can express sadness as well ing their desires, feelings school things improved person draws represents ful artist in future and she as happiness because every and needs. Painting is a tal- a bit as teachers started a personal significance ent to draw with colours; showing interest in her which not everyone can un- a way to merge the reality drawings. Sahar started derstand, but the artist him- with idealism and produce to draw using pencils and self. To Sahar, every piece a balanced piece with spe- most of her works reflect of her art is a big achieve- cific meanings which not the romantic and classical ment and has a special everyone can understand. style. She likes to use blue, meaning. Sahar was nomi- Maybe she is not a fa- purple and cool colours nated as the Perfect Stu- mous painter or one of since it reflects her person- dent twice at school. She those who are that expe- ality. has also won the first prize rienced, however, she is In the beginning Sahar in International Friend- hopeful of being a famous participated in competi- ship Competition, Muscat painter someday. Now she tions and painting activi- Municipality competitions is at the starting point. She ties at school before show- as well as the forth place has the confidence and pa- talented person expresses presents all her works of ing her work at exhibitions winner at the World Health tience to step up slowly but himself through his talent art to those who appreciate and joining competitions Contest. amazingly. and transfer it the way he and understand them hop- reach that height from nised. at both local and interna- Talented person should “Painting is my best wants to the public” Sahar ing that one day she could where she will be recog- Sahar bint Mohammed tional levels. Her talent for always have hope and way of reflecting my in- commented. painting and drawing has improved, especially after her participation in some of the international exhi- bitions and competitions. “Without my participa- tion in various art exhibi- tions, I could have not got the chance to improve my drawing skills. I learned a lot from competitions and exhibitions with other painters,” Sahar says. After joining the col- lege, Sahar’s talent became obvious under the coach- ing of specialists and expe- rienced teachers. “I stud- ied several subjects from which I started to learn and enhance my skills. Sahar specialised in Fine Arts. However, she discov- ered the importance of Weekend EVENTS6 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Al Arabi team organises cleaning campaign 40 Years

By Maurice Gent [email protected] TheThe Braziliailian Link HE links between Brazil, Oman Tand trading routes to the East are becoming ever more important. Oman is now the Middle East headquarters of Vale, the Brazilian mining giant and the great significance of this role was underlined this week when Vale Oman’s $1.36 billion industrial complex was officially inaugurated before a bevy of By Ali al Habsi campaigns, started by the village. The team co-operated leader of the team, said: “The Salmi Company at cost of RO important dignitaries from both Brazil people living in the locality, with the municipality to plant team participated in colouring 1200. The work is expected to and Oman. HE cleaning and shows their aim to maintain about 150 seedlings along the the speed bumps and planting begin this weak.” The implications of the Vale deal are Tbeautification campaigns the cleanliness of their locality village road and the bylanes. some saplings along the road. The Al Arabi Team partici- local, regional and worldwide. Local in held by the local youth reflect at any cost. They surrounded the bushes About 150 youths joined the pated in many activities dur- that a considerable number of jobs are their spirit of loyalty and The Al Arabi Team in Lizq with fences to protect them campaign. ing the two past months like being provided to Omanis. Regional in awareness of the importance in Al Mudhaibi recently held from the stray animals. The team has also assigned traffic safety and the Prophet’s that Sohar is becoming increasingly im- of volunteer works. These a cleaning campaign in the Yaqoub al Shabibi, the the job of irrigation to the Al Birthday. portant as a major industrial port in the Middle East and Indian Ocean Region, and international in that there are links to industrial development projects both in the Philippines and Malaysia. Exploiting the unique art of wall painting Oman Shipping Company is also a very important part of this new and com- painting on rocks, sculpturing do would be a business of his Now I get offers to paint not By Khalifa al Mayahi plex web, building four vast ships for on stones, drawing on paper, own. He worked at his father’s only from my village but also transporting materials across the world. HE creative Omani youth glass and on walls. Some of construction company where other villages. I hope that I Two are expected to be operational by the are always searching for the talents have become the did what he always wanted to can advance this art form and T middle of this year and two by the end of opportunities to excel and source of income for many do — painting on walls. He is make it my source of income. the year. be unique. Al Awabi village who live here. Mahmoud al known for his art in his village I like to please people with the Social responsibility and sustainabil- is full of such youth who Shraiqi from Sinaiba in Wadi and most people design their lovely drawings I make in their ity are also on the agenda as this great are known for their unique Bani Kharoos finished his high houses with his paintings. houses. I like it when people project goes forward. An in-depth socio- talents. The creative abilities school in 2008. After looking “This form of art, which praise on my work. I thank His economic study of the whole Al Batinah of these individuals can be for a job in many places he has become my identity, start- Majesty for his patronage of art Governorate has already taken place. Now seen in various art forms, from decided that the best thing to ed from the walls of my house. and artists,” Mahmoud said. Mahmoud al Shraiqi special empowerment programmes are being worked out with two other major organisations operating in the area, Sohar Aluminium and Oman Oil Refineries. Capturing fleeting moments The Latin American link is also provid- ing a further advantage. Vale has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Vi- cosa University, the leading agricultural educational institute in South America, to conduct agronomic studies in Oman. Scientific research is currently under way to investigate and identify preventative measures to combat diseases and pests that attack mango trees, date trees and lime plantations in the Sultanate. Juhaina Said al Already in April of last year the first Harthi’s images are Vale production line in Sohar opened and reflections of her steel pellets are being successfully sup- thoughts. She captures plied to steel producers in the Middle fleeting moments that East region. The planned final production never come back. She figures are so large that it is difficult to is a student at the comprehend them. Suffice it to say the Sohar University. Brazil-Oman link is of increasing sig- nificance and in the future it promises to become a vital factor in Oman’s future prosperity. Those at this week’s ceremony spoke about achieving a ‘virtual iron ore mine in Oman”. Certainly Vale sees it’s achieve- ments here as creating a base for opera- tions in the Middle East, North Africa and Cartoon by Fahad al Zadjali Asia. Weekend LIFESTYLE7 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Why happiness, health eludes ambitious people? lead more successful or healthier lives than bia, Oxford — to more modest educations, average guys? including high school diplomas and commu- “Despite their many accomplishments, nity college degrees. ambitious people are only slightly happier “So, it would seem that they are poised than their less-ambitious counterparts, and to ‘have it all’. However, we determined that they actually live somewhat shorter lives,” ambition has a much weaker effect on life said Timothy Judge, professor of manage- satisfaction and actually a slightly negative ment at the University of Notre Dame’s impact on longevity. So, yes, ambitious peo- Mendoza College of Business. ple do achieve more successful careers, but “If ambition has its positive effects, and that doesn’t seem to translate into leading in terms of career success it certainly seems happier or healthier lives.” that it does, our study also suggests that it “Perhaps the investments they make carries with it some cost,” Judge says, the in their careers come at the expense of the Journal of Applied Psychology reports. things we know affect longevity: healthy Tracking 717 high-ability individuals behaviours, stable relationships and deep over seven decades, Judge uses multiple cri- social networks.” teria to measure ambition during periods of Most parents want their kids to be am- participants’ lives ranging from childhood bitious, attend the best schools and eventu- to young adults just beginning their careers, ally have successful careers, and while it according to a Notre Dame statement. certainly isn’t wrong to have those parental O go-getters, attending the best col- Their education ranged from attending hopes and dreams, Judge cautions that we leges and universities, having pres- some of the world’s best universities — shouldn’t delude ourselves into thinking Dtigious careers and high salaries, Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, Colum- they will make our kids happier.

An employee sells bouquets of flowers in a shop belonging to the Sovkhoz Oktyabrskiy greenhouse in Russia’s Chanel conjures up crystal cave in Paris Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk. Millions of Russian men will acknowledge the women they love by presenting flowers HANEL’S superstar “It’s the new three-piece suit and souvenirs to them on International Women’s Day on designer Karl Lager- — little skirt, little jacket and March 8. — Reuters Cfeld turned Paris’ ornate pants,” quipped the white-haired Grand Palais into a crystal vault designer, who had swapped his yesterday, sending out a look trademark black and white look packed with trompe l’oeil tricks for a violet shirt and velvet coat and glinting shades of violet and for the occasion. Ice cream as ‘addictive blue. Picking up on the sky-blue Giant spears of mock-crystal theme of Chanel’s couture show filled the vast domed space, as in January, blues were a keynote as cocaine’ the models filed past with crys- of the collection. “But this time RAVING for ice cream can be so strong it is similar to that tal outlining their eyebrows, and it’s the blue of amethyst, of crys- Cexperienced by drug addicts, a study has found. clustered on the clear heels of tal — it’s more autumnal,” La- The research has sparked concerns that the dessert could be shoes which crunched on a floor gerfeld explained backstage. genuinely addictive after it found the brain was left wanting of glittering mineral dust. Crunchy crystal-like embroi- more ice cream in the same way as someone who regularly uses US singers Alicia Keys and A design by Karl Lagerfeld in a crystal setting. — AFP dery adorned the sleeves, hem or cocaine, the Daily Mail reported on Monday. Katy Perry — whose bright the stars who came to cheer the sparkling faux tweed opened the neck of dresses made from a mix The results of the study now seem to support previous claims blue hair has lit up the front row house’s latest autumn-winter show, with flared skirt and jack- of natural and synthetic materi- that some people throughout this week’s ready- collection. et all of one piece, paired with als whose recipe Chanel guards can become “ad- to-wear shows — were among Trompe l’oeil coats in dark, pencil-thin cropped trousers. preciously secret. — AFP dicted” to junk food. The study, published online by the American Watch your diet, you multi-tasking women! Journal of Clini- cal Nutrition, By Nivedita Sharma “Women above 40 must found that those March 8 is International Women’s Day check their mineral and vita- who regularly ate HE multi-tasks, balanc- seriously. But the effects tend min levels and then start the ice cream needed ing the pressures of work, to show later in life when the respective supplementation. more and more Schildren and home. But body refuses to work tirelessly. Antioxidant requirement in- to replicate the the modern superwoman who It is especially important creases with age. So consider “high” they first manages to do it all ends up for women over 35 to take ex- having green tea as a source of experienced. This neglecting her health, too busy tra care of their health. antioxidants,” said Taneja. mirrors the ef- to focus on her diet or an exer- “Women need a great deal Healthy food withstanding, fect cocaine — cise regimen. of vitamins and minerals for water is a great solution too, and other class A A busy lifestyle often leads their body, especially after the according to Pallavi Shrivas- drugs — has on to an erratic diet and interna- age of 35. Calcium D3, iron tav, a nutritionist. users, it was re- tional research indicates that and multi-vitamin capsules are “You can opt for salad with ported. women who are too busy to the best health supplements. chicken, nuts, beans and veg- According to focus on their food intake are They not only provide the nec- gies; you’ll get some great Kyle Burger, from more likely to succumb to im- essary vitamins to your body nutrients, including fibre and the Oregon Re- pulsive eating and spontaneous tries to maintain a fine bal- but also help to keep the skin protein. search Institute, “Also, women should cut food purchasing. The result? ance between her personal and hair healthy,” said Simal overeating food Extra flab, laziness, diabetes, Soin, an expert. off hunger with liquids. You and professional life; so a bal- with high fat and hypertension and obesity. Mineral and vitamin levels may feel you are hungry, but anced diet and exercise are not sugar seems to change the way the brain responds to it, resulting According to health experts need to be kept in check and you’ll feel fine if you just in it downgrading the mental “reward”. today’s multi-tasking woman enough as they require best instead of milk and sugar tea, it drink a bottle of water. Add health supplements to keep fit Burger, who is a co-author of the study, told The Telegraph: needs not just a balanced diet would be a great idea to sip on lemon juice to your water if “This down-regulation pattern is seen with frequent drug use, and healthy. and exercise but also health some healthy green tea, sug- you’re bloating; it’s a diuretic where the more an individual uses the drug, the less reward they supplements. Generally women don’t gests Navin Taneja, director, and works wonders,” he said. receive for using it.” Today’s modern woman take their health concerns very National Skin Centre. So eat healthy and stay fit! Weekend TOURISM8 & 9 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012

Jassa Beach specialises in an array of inshore and offshore activities that offer adventure, excitement and discovery. On the menu are two-hour and half-day cruises that offer tourists the opportunity to go dolphin and whale watching, snorkelling, or simply to enjoy the striking beauty of Oman’s dramatic coastline Glorious sunsets and beach BBQs at Bandar Khairan 13-15 years — family members, relatives style shelters and tuck into freshly grilled and friends sharing a common dream and seafood, Omani style shuwa, and a vari- Beach barbecues —— one of Oman’s most enduringg weekend and holidayy a will to make it happen. In fact, we were ety of other meats, salads, and savouries. pastimes — mayy be nothingg to write home about. But aqua tourism pioneers pioneers then, having opened up sea tour- While the grilling is done by the beach ism in a way that has since attracted other itself, the rest of the food is catered for JJassaassa Beach SeaSea Tourism have taken beach BBQsBBQs to a new level. OnOn a secluded players to this industry,” says Ahmed. and ferried to Bandar Khairan by boat. white-sand beach at Bandar Khairan, guestsg are treated to a sumptuous Much of this growth came over the Also available on site are amenities like last five years or so. Having put together mobile water closets and washrooms. Arabian-styley spread, with an expansive sea view and gloriousg sunset to boot the elements of a successful aqua tour- “Our sunset BBQs are a huge draw ism business, Ahmed decided to raise his with companies, some of which plan profile as a professional operator in the their corporate outings and get-togethers By Conrad Prabhu industry by acquiring a fleet of classy at our Bandar Khairan site. Sometimes, n the beginning there was a small tourist boats. The first acquisition was we have up to 100 people enjoying a nondescript fishing boat that doubled made about five years ago with the de- meal together,” says Hamood. Ias something of a tourist craft fer- livery of a sleek new 20-seater craft. This This exclusive beach, enclosed by rying sightseers from Qantab to sandy was followed by the arrival of a pair of limestone hills on three sides, is the hub hideaways in the outcrops along Mus- 36-foot boats designed for 19 passengers of Jassa Beach’s activities. For guests cat’s ragged coastline. Business was apiece. The fleet has since burgeoned to looking to enjoy the otherwise tranquil good, but the potential was even better. a total of five boats, each fully equipped setting, the company arranges for tents, So the young Omani fisherman manning with modern communications and safety sleeping bags, lighting, portable toilets the tiller of the outboard motor, set out gear. and other camping equipment. A bonfire to do something about it. He decided to Ahmed al Lamki, founder and CEO Jassa Beach specialises in an array of sets the tone for a memorable evening. give up fishing and concentrate full-time of Jassa Beach Sea Tourism inshore and offshore activities that offer adventure, excitement and discovery. experience and the warm and friendly at- “Camping trips are our specialty. We on building his own distinctive Omani On the menu are two-hour and half-day mosphere surrounding these trips.” can offer a full-day programme that in- brand of aqua tourism. That was around cruises that offer tourists the opportunity Jassa Beach’s biggest draw, however, cludes a bit of dolphin watching, snorkel- 15 years ago. to go dolphin and whale watching, snor- is its distinctive brand of beach barbe- ling, water sports, and so on, culminating Today, Ahmed al Lamki has seen his kelling, or simply to enjoy the striking cues, which are the stuff of legend in the in a delightful beach barbecue spread, dream not only come substantially true, beauty of Oman’s dramatic coastline. aqua tourism industry. While the spread and the possibility of an overnight cam- but also evolve on the strength of his Another major attraction is deep is diverse and delicious, it’s the loca- pout as well. As always, many of our continuing success as one of Muscat’s sea fishing — a pastime that appeals to tion and setting that makes these BBQs customers are repeat guests, because they best-known, home-grown sea tour op- growing numbers of Omani and expatri- unique. Guests are ferried by tourist boat simply love our way of hosting them.” erators. ate sport fishing enthusiasts. “We go 12 to an exclusive sandy beachfront tucked Significantly, Jassa Beach Sea Tour- Jassa Beach Sea Tourism, a com- kilometres offshore or further deep for away in the limestone outcrops of Bandar ism is primarily staffed by Omanis who pany that he founded some years ago, tuna,” says Hamood al Mawali, Head of Khairan. Here, overlooking the turquoise have been with owner Ahmed al Lamki now boasts a growing fleet of custom- Administration. “Typically, sport fish- inshore waters and blue expanse of the from the outset of his aqua tourism busi- designed tourist boats as well as an array ing involves the use of rod and line, but Arabian Sea beyond, Jassa Beach staff ness. Captains Saif al Maskari, Ibrahim of water sports equipment, including jet sometimes we trawl for tuna, but never lay on a BBQ spread that, combined with al Mujaili and Salem al Hasani are ex- skis, banana boats, kneeboards, wake- in commercial quantities. Our guests the glorious setting sun, gentle draughts perienced hands who operate the compa- boards, water skis, craft for kayaking are largely Omanis, but many residents and idyllic settings, makes for a magical ny’s fleet of tourist boats. An overarch- and so on. turn up as well. Most of them are repeat evening. ing emphasis on safety is Jassa Beach’s “We’ve come a long way over the last customers, simply because they love the Guests sit at tables laid under gazebo- hallmark, adds Hamood. Sonakshi at LFW Italian desserts z Page 13 z Page 10

Glorious sunsets and beach BBQs at Abnormal breathing triggers Bandar Khairan z Pages 8&9 hyperactivity z Pages 14

Wednesday, March 7, 2012 Weekend

Muscat International Book Fair making words go further — Page 16 Weekend FOOD10 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Chocolate Caramel Nut & Shortbread Slice • Once iitt iiss iinn tthehe ttin,in, pplacelace iintonto ththe ffridgeid andd llett iitt restt ffor 1100 minutes • Bake in the oven for 35 min- utes • Remove and leave to cool Method For The Caramel • Put sugar and water into a heavy bottomed pan • Turn on the heat to a low heat until the sugar has dissolved • Once the sugar has dissolved turn the heat up and let it boil until it turns a light brown/ amber colour • Once the sugar has reached a caramel stage, add the cream to the caramel in 4 stages, whisking so the caramel be- comes a light smooth and silky, be very careful when adding hot liquid to caramel as it will bubble and can burn Duchess of Cornwall samples cake during a visit to the you. Fortnum and Mason food store in London. — Reuters • When the cream has been added, stir in the butter and a Recipe For Shortbread Cookies Recipe For The Topping pinch of salt and leave to cool 200 gm dark chocolate • When cool pour over the cara- 125 gm butter (unsalted) 85 gm butter mel. 125 gm caster sugar 200 gm fresh cream Recipe For The Topping 125 gm plain flour Method For Making • Chop the chocolate up and 62 gm whole blanched almonds Shortbread Biscuit place in a saucepan. Add to 62 gm Whole blanched pistachio • Preheat oven to 160O C the chocolate the butter and 93 gm raisins (sultanas can be • Lightly butter a 20 x 28 cm cream. substituted if you don’t have baking pan • Slowly bring this to the boil raisins) • Sieve the flour and mix in the • Once it has melted mix with a 1 whole egg almonds, pistachio, raisin & wooden spoon so it becomes Pinch of salt salt smooth and silky Recipe For Caramel • Mix in the butter and then mix • Pour over the top of caramel 312 gm light brown sugar in the egg using a palette knife to smooth 62 gm butter • Once it has formed a dough it out remove from the bowl and • Leave to harden/set this should 142 ml single cream By Ferdie Santos, North Korean children eating lunch at a nursery in Yomju using a back of a spoon press take around 40 minutes 100 ml water county, North Pyongan province. — AFP ½ tsp lemon juice (fresh) lightly into the tin InterContinental Muscat • Cut into squares and serve. Food writer reveals unusual side of Italian desserts By Richard Leong violis. Then I was shocked by how many recipes there were TALIAN delicacies like in the different regions. Some Itiramisu and cannolis are of these recipes you could find familiar to people around the them in books going back to globe and the list may grow as the 1700s. They are not new veteran food writer Francine at all.” Segan shares unusual Italian Recipe desserts in her newest book. Hazelnut Chocolate Pasta Dolci: Italy’s Sweets, is the (Pasta al Gianduiotti), result of her extensive research Serves 4 A maitre chocolatier of Swiss chocolatier Lindt & looking for recipes. Segan met ½ pound angel hair or other Spruengli poses behind a pot of chocolate in Kilchberg Italian home cooks and profes- thin long pasta, 12 gianduiotti, near Zurich. The maker of Lindor chocolate balls and gold sional chefs who make usual hazelnut chocolate candies, or foil-wrapped Easter bunnies said net profit rose 1.9 per pairings like sugar, honey and 12 tablespoons quality hazel- cent in 2011 to 246.5 million Swiss francs. — Reuters chocolate with pasta, chick- nut chocolate spread, Whipped peas, eggplant and even meat. cream or mascarpone cheese, What is the biggest shock Chopped hazelnuts, Hazelnut you discover during your re- liqueur such as Frangelico search for the book? (optional), Cook the pasta ac- “The biggest surprise is cording to package directions. that they eat pasta for dessert. Drain. That was a shock. I thought it Put 1 gianduiotti in each was a joke. I thought it was of 4 dessert bowls. Divide the just one place. And then I was hot pasta among them and top doing an article on chocolate each with 2 more gianduiotti. in Piedmont. That’s where Serve immediately, topped I learned about it two years with a dollop of whipped ago... More and more people cream or mascarpone cheese, a started looking at me like ‘You splash of hazelnut liqueur and don’t know we have pasta for sprinkle of hazelnuts, if you A cook prepares Pakistan’s hamburgers for dessert?’ There are dessert ra- like. — Reuters customers in Rawalpindi. — AFP Weekend LEISURE11 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012

CRYPTIC PUZZLE 12 Helicopter blade (5) ACROSS 29 Stop (4) PHARMACIES ACROSS 13 From the side (7) 1 Sudden (6) 30 Denomination (4) CROSSWORD 15 Dog breed (3) 5 Scrutinise (4) QUICK CROSSWORD 4 Raise a hand to an of- 16 Lubricate (3) 31 Guided (3) 24-HOUR SERVICE ficer (6) 18 Axilla (6) 8 Feel (5) YESTERDAY’S 7 Pretend not to notice a 20 Breaks (5) 9 Tear (3) QUICK SOLUTIONS Al Hashar ph, Ruwi 24783334 hopeless lover getting 21 Cigarette (3) 10 Feline (4) ACROSS: 3, Spied 9, nothing right (8) 22 Unit of weight (3) 11 Unusual (4) 8 Expedition far away in Pillar 10, Defect 11, 23 Dad (6) 12 Tender (5) Muscat ph, Ruwi, 24702542 the heart of Niger (6) 25 Deity (3) Given 12, Ibis 15, Wise 10 This swindle, on the 28 Beam of light (5) 13 Frightened (6) 17, Compact 20, Lid Al Sarooj, 24695536 quiet, is rascally (5) 30 Stiff (5) 16 Expensive (4) 13 Talk excitedly of a red- 21, Error 23, Sore 25, 31 Very small (5) 18 Revise (4) Bang 26, Treat 28, Bet Scientific ph, Qurum, 24566601 headed six-footer (4) 32 Rush (4) 20 Damp (3) 14 Hurried to repair all but 30, Deleted 33, Area 33 Competent (4) 22 Obscure (3) Ruwi, 24702850 two shoes (4) 35, Date 36, Gouda 38, YESTERDAY’S 23 Plunge (3) 15 A low place in the coun- Casual 39, Outlet 40, try (4) 16 CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS 24 Blaze (4) Plank DAY DUTY United we stand - but ACROSS: 1, Shorts 7, 25 Thought (4) there’s no sign of Stan! Tired out 8, Polo 10, Look 28 God-like (6) DOWN: 1, Optic 2, Muscat Al Badiya 24425024 (3) up 11, Wither 14, Rig 16, 30 Thieve (5) Claim 3, Sag 4, Prince Al Khuwair 17 Run gently or back- Grate 17, Rite 19, Canny 5, Eden 6, Den 7, Devil wards in a race (4) 32 Place (4) 21, Danes 22, Cops-E 23, 8, Steed 13, Boaster 24482044 19 A loving couple having Fret 26, Anton(-y) 28, D-AI 33 Pour (4) National 24712714 a riotous time (4) 3 Right, as a blow (4) 33 At last it’s ended by 29, Is-Abel 30, Willow 31, 34 Writing-fluid (3) 3 Pale (6) 15 Mouthful (3) 14, Sport 16, Singlet 21 Just what’s needed by a Al Massa 4 To the drinker, it means specialist bowlers (4) Ante (room) 32, Call “Over” 35 Wept (5) 4 Obeyed (9) 17 Help (3) 18, Tread 19, Job 22, space visitant hiding in good health (5) 33, Stre-ss. 5 Twisted (7) 19 Alienating (8) Rated 24, Era 27, a copse (3,6) 5 Foreigner from Valletta EASY PUZZLE 36 Entrance (4) Sur Al Safa 25542240 DOWN: 1, Sa-il-or 2, 23 Briefly, the state Elvis (4) ACROSS 37 Mean (6) 6 Scorch (4) 20 Intelligence (3) Tendon 28, Batch 29, Buraimi Al Zaiyana Presley was in at first Rook-i.e. 3, Stop 4, De- 7 Require (4) 21 Consistency (7) Tense 31, Tally 32, 6 Daisy, you’d look sweet 4 Branched horn (6) DOWN (4) sitting on one (6) signs 5, Mocha 6, Store 8, 8 Also (3) 26 Aviators (6) 25694458 7 Private (8) Port 9, Lug 12, T-Ry. 13, 1 Overseas (6) Deity 34, Doll 36, Gap 24 It may seem fishy that 9 In Luke, perhaps, it’s 8 Teases (6) 2 Journalist (8) 14 Devoted (9) 27 Smelled (6) 37, Auk. Ibri Al Hayah 25654188 soft ones are more uncharacteristic (6) Etude 15, Pa-NS-y 18, 10 Outline map (5) Icons 19, Cap 20, Nee Nizwa Al Qala 25410076 masculine than the hard 11 Subdue a female (3) 13 Striplings (4) (4) 12 Spirit of the alteration 21, Done for 22, Cob 23, 14 Ring of light (4) F-alter 24, Ri-L-e 25, Tow- Salalah Al Riyadh 23295296 26 A drink from Cupid? in a manuscript (5) 15 Young salmon (4) QUOTATIONS FOR TODAY (3) 13 Went back to bed (7) ers 26, Aitch 27, T-all-y 28, 16 Paddle (3) DI-n 30, Wars. NIGHT DUTY 27 Familiar name for the 15 She has a point (3) 17 Tightly stretched (4) duck (4) 16 We finish last when it’s 19 Wading bird (4) Muscat Al Seeb 24420294 29 Resorts you may need a muddy (3) 21 Absent-minded (9) YESTERDAY’S EASY The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet. pass for? (4) 18 Remained to start stalk- 23 Cultivate land (4) SOLUTIONS Atlas 24503585 32 Not copper, though it ing the wild deer around — Aristotle 24 Decomposes (4) ACROSS: 1 Bolero 7 Gin Muscat 24833323 may well contain some (6) 26 Droop (3) (4) 20 That tax-exempt girl, rummy 8 Gear 10 Trifle 11 27 Scheme (4) Excite 14 Rue 16 Hates 17 Muscat 24537080 33 A mocking letter to a remember (5) 29 Horse’s gait (4) relative (5) 21 It’s turned soft at the Mill 19 Debar 21 Besom The foundation stones for a balanced success are honesty, Sur Al Jawi 25541188 32 Watch face (4) 22 Pansy 23 Stew 26 Sa- 34 Famously musical arts end (3) 33 Stage whisper (5) Buraimi Al Aryaf al Omania given backing by many 22 A cry that has a firm tan 28 Few 29 Amends 30 character, integrity, faith, love and loyalty. 34 Swindles (6) Docile 31 Iron 32 Elongate a head of state (6) ring to it (3) 35 Paint type (8) 256591389 33 Toddle. — Zig Ziglar 35 Figure an unruly truant 23 The subdued voice in 36 Boy’s name (6) Ibri City 25653373 is out to be uncommuni- which many speak (6) DOWN Rustaq Badr al Jashmi cative (8) 25 Universal deity (3) DOWN: 1 Bottom 2 Eye- 36 As written of by Defoe 28 Is obliged to wind up 1 Era (5) ful 3 Ogre 4 Wrexham 5 26875798 once a week (6) the party in a hurry (5) 2 Court case (5) Ambit 6 Tyres 8 Girl 9 30 Is building work such a 3 Twelve inches (4) Ale 12 Car 13 Tepee 15 CARTOONS DOWN Barka Barka 26882140 job? (3-2) 4 Communion table (5) Messy 18 Islam 19 Den 20 ADAM @ HOME by Brian Basset Samayil Al Hurriyah 25359435 1 Raise production of 31 Having a seat in it, you 5 Therefore (4) Boy 21 Bandage 22 Pan 23 boots (5) don’t fall (5) 6 Crowd actors (6) Second 24 Twin 25 Wheeze Nizwa Al Qala 25431666 2 Chap in a car in the 32 Dry area at the riverside 9 Off course (6) 26 Sates 27 Tenor 28 For Salalah Al Mawasa 23294400 wood (5) in Poland (4) 11 Dried grass (3) 30 Diet.

KHOULA HOSPITAL VISITING HOURS ROYAL OMAN POLICE M USEUMS IN OMAN

Private & Other Wards EMERGENCY 9 9 9 9 FAISAL BIN ALI AL SAID MUSEUM, Working Days: 16:00-18:00. Weekends & Public Holidays: 10:-12:00, DG of Passports & Residency, 24569603 Tel: 24641650 16:00-18:00 DG of Customs, 24714626 MUSEUM OF OMANI HERITAGE, Traffic offences, 24510227/228 ICU ROP Public Relations, 24569270 Tel: 24600946 Consumer Complaints Cell, 24817013 Working Days: 16:00-17:00. Weekends & Public Holidays: 16:00- CHILDREN’S SCIENCE MUSEUM. CALVIN AND HOBBES by Bill Watterson 17:00 Muscat Governorate Tel: 24605368 Headquarters, 24560021 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, Special Care Baby Unit Muscat, 24736611 Tel: 24641374 Working Days: Parents may visit at any time. Weekends & Public Wattayah, 24677990 , Tel: 24701289 Holidays: Parents may visit at any time Ruwi, 24701099 Muttrah, 24712211 SULTAN’S ARMED FORCES Bausher, 24600099 MUSEUM, Tel: 24312646 OTHER HOSPITALS Al Amerat, 24875999 CURRENCY MUSEUM, Qurayat, 24845555 Tel: 24796102 A’Seeb, 24420099 Hospital...... Board . . . . . Emergency Sohar ...... 26840022 . . 26840099 Al-Athaiba, 24521099 MUSCAT GATE MUSEUM, Royal...... 24599000 . . 24590491 Al Buraimi . . . .25650855 . . 25652319 AI-Khodh, 24425012 Tel: 24739005. Health Services Dpt Sur ...... 25440244 . . 25461373 Directorate of the University Security, OMANI-FRENCH MUSEUM (Bait Muttrah ...... 24797602 Tanam...... 25499011 . . 25499033 24513999 Fransa), Tel: 24736613 GARFIELD by Jim Davis Quriyat ...... 24845001 . . 24845003 Masirah...... 25404018 . . 25404018 Directorate of Traffic Muscat, 24567898 Al Batinah Headquarters, 26840096 BAIT AL ZUBAIR, Tel: 24736688 SQH, Salalah .23211555 . . 23211151 Ibra ...... 25470533 . . 25470535 Al Rustaq Division, 26875099 BAIT A’NAMAN, Tel: 24641300 Police ...... 24603988 . . 24603980 Adam ...... 25434167 . . 25434055 Al Dakhiliyah, 25425099 SOHAR FORT MUSEUM. Al Nahda. . . . .24831255 . . 24837800 Bidiya ...... 25483535 . . 25483535 Nizwa Division, 25425099 Tel: 26844758 Ibn Sina . . . . .24876322 . . 24877361 Ibri...... 25491011 . . 25491990 Samayil Division, 25350099 NAHKAL FORT Nizwa ...... 25439361 . . 25425033 Saham ...... 26854427 . . 26855148 Al Sharqiyah Headquarters, 25545070 , Tel: 26781384 Al Rustaq . . . .26875055 . . 26877186 Khasab ...... 26830187 . . 26830187 Ibra Division, 25570100 BAIT AL MAKHAM. Tel: 24641300 Sumayil...... 25350055 . . 25350022 Dibba ...... 26836443 . . 26836443 Al Dhahirah Headquarters, 25650099 BAIT ADAM MUSEUM, QURUM, Izki ...... 25340033 . . 25340033 Burkha ...... 26828397 . . 26828397 Al Buraimi Division, 25650199 Tel: 24605033, 24605013 Ibri Division, 25689099 Haima...... 23436013 . . 23436055 Sinaw ...... 25474338 Al Wusta Headquarters, 23436099 OIL AND GAS EXHIBITION CENTRE AND PLANE-TARIUM, Haima Division, 23436211 STONE SOUP by Jan Eliot Special Task Force, 24560088 Tel: 24677834. CINEMA Coastguard Headquarters, 24714888 PLANETARIUM, Tel: 24675542. Dhofar Governorate Headquarters, AQUARIUM at the Marine Science 23234599 FILM INFORMATION and Fisheries Centre (located next to Salalah Police Station, 23290099 Marina Bandar Rowdha, Sidab). Thamrait Division, 23279099 AL BAHJA CINEMA: 24540856, 24540855. Musandam Governorate Headquarters, SALALAH MUSEUM, Tel: 23294549 AL NASR CINEMA: 24831358, 24831809 (after 3pm) 26730299 CULTURAL CENTRE, Tel: 23294549. Khasab Division, 26731502 AL SHATTI PLAZA: 24607360, 24692656 (after 2pm) SUR MARITIME MUSEUM, ROP websites: www.rop.gov.om, www. Tel: 24541466. STARS CINEMA: 24791641, 24792360 ropoman.net and e-mail: [email protected] BAIT AL BARANDA, Tel: 24714262. Weekend MOTORING12 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Global car sales to increase by 4 per cent HE global car market should Tgrow four per cent this year although Europe will lag behind because of the debt crisis, the German automaker federation has said . Despite “headwinds” in the The Giugiaro Brivido Concept car is seen during a preview in world economy “the global au- Geneva. (Below) The side view of Giugiaro Brivido tomotive market remains on course for growth,” VDA presi- dent Matthias Wissmann said at a news conference on the eve of the Geneva International Motor Show opening. “Overall, we expect 2012 to bring four per cent expansion on the worldwide passenger car Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann introduces the new market,” he added. “We cannot Lamborghini Aventador model car at the 82nd Geneva Car Show. simply maintain the high rates (Below) The side view of new Lamborghini. — AFP of growth from 2011 in the same form,” he was quoted as saying in a VDA statement. “We have reduced our speed somewhat, but we are keep- ing it relatively high.” VDA expects the US market to re- main dynamic after two years of double-digit growth, racking up an eight per cent gain to 13.7 million light vehicles in 2012. It said China will also post strong growth of eight per cent to 13.1 million vehicles. In Japan, where car sales last year were hit by the earthquake and nuclear disaster, the market should rebound by 17 per cent to President and CEO of Porsche Matthias Mueller introduces 4.1 million units. the new Porsche Boxster S at Geneva Car Show Nissan to build new hatchback car ISSAN is to build a new hatchback compact car in Britain, in a £125 million investment that will create 2,000 jobs, the NJapanese auto giant said yesterday. The new vehicle, called ‘Invitation’, will be built at Nissan’s Sunderland plant in northeastern England from mid-2013 thanks to investment equivalent to $198 million or 150 million euros. The project, worth 150 million euros or $198 million, will mean- while receive a British government grant of £9.3 million, the firm said in a statement. “As well as playing a key role in Nissan’s market expansion within Europe, the new model will also have a significant benefit in terms of jobs with around 2,000 new posts created at Nissan and The new Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse is seen during a preview of Volkwagen Group amongst its UK supplier base,” it added. ahead of the 82nd Geneva Car Show in Geneva. — AFP Benz unveils car with ‘bubblegum’ grip ERCEDES-BENZ unveiled at the motor show in Geneva a Mfive-door hatchback for European sale in September, intended to ramp up its A-series from a family hatch-back to a car with sporty flair. Dieter Zetsche, chairman of Diamler AG, said that he expected the car to go on sale in September and that it would be made first in Germany, then Hungary and later in China. Speaking at an unveiling of the car on the eve of the Geneva Mo- tor Show, he said it was powered in part by engineering by British sports car firm MG and was 18 centimetres (seven inches) closer to the road than its predecessor. “This car will stick to the street like bubblegum,” said Zetsche introducing the car to journalists on the eve of the Geneva Motor Show which runs to March 18. Vintage cars used in wedding ceremonies with its licence plate personalised with the name of the couple, is displayed in the Zetsche said that 25,000 cars had been delivered and 100,000 Brides street, in downtown Sao Paulo, Brazil. The Brides street has 117 stores and offer many varieties of clothing, had been ordered in advance and were being built, and that eventual shoes, accessories, cars, photography and video services, negotiating about $3 million a month with the global production was expected to amount to 4 million vehicles. sale and rental wedding dresses. — AFP The car, he said, offered safety at a premium and with attractive looks, and within reach of lower budgets. Weekend FASHION13 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Stella weds country girl to urban chic TELLA McCartney sent models At the end of the show, McCart- down the runway in sporty but ney’s ex-Beatle father, Paul, raised Ssophisticated schoolgirl out- his fist in triumph, while singer Alicia fits on Monday, as cutesy collars and Keys, her first time at Paris Fashion flouncy skirts found an anchor in clas- Week said “It’s like magic!”. sic English tailoring and rich country “It’s so beautiful, the colours are so tweeds. vibrant but still so sophisticated and The British designer presented a chic and strong,” Keys said. “I just winter ready-to-wear collection that love her whole style so I’m really glad was young, fun, feminine and light in to be here.” the spectacular grand ballroom of the Hem-lines were short, torsos were Hotel de Ville, Paris’ city hall, with tight, and electric blues and white its soaring painted ceiling, imposing whites gave a pop to silhouettes that arches and ornate chandeliers. still felt sensible. McCartney described the collec- Panels of stretchy blue fabric and tion as English countryside meets “ur- glossy blacks were sewn together with ban energy, colour and shine.” “It was warm tweeds in a streamlined patch- very much the country girl discover- work to create body contouring, flirty ing the urban edge,” McCartney said, dresses with flouncy hems. The look adding that she tried to “mix the two was sensual, smart and sporty, com- worlds together but in an unexpected plete with a peek-a-boo of skin behind way.” the shoulder. — Reuters Siddhartha Tytler’s design at LFW Kellan Lutz to launch clothing line? MERICAN actor Kellan ALutz, who started his career as a model, is currently spending time on his clothing range. “I’m really focused on my clothing line. I was in New York for Fashion Week just hanging out with my peers in the fash- ion world and looking at them for inspiration,”showbizspy.com quoted the 26-year-old as saying. “I love fashion, I started out modelling. My education is in the fashion world. I’m very thankful for my modelling years because I had to do a topless basketball shot where I was just wearing Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha showcases a design by basketball shorts aged 14 and Indian fashion label ‘Karmik’ on the fourth day of Works by fashion designers Maxime Simoens and Valentin Yudashkin it really prepares you,” he Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai during the Fall/Winter 2012-2013 fashion show in Paris. — AFP added. — IANS Victoria refuses to Kajol blows kisses to wear tracksuits sister Tanisha at LFW INGER-TURNED- CTRESS Kajol clapped, SDESIGNER Victoria Beck- Acheered and blew kisses to her ham says she is too fashion younger sister Tanisha Mukherjee, conscious to wear tracksuits or who walked the Lakme Fashion “ugg” boots in public. Week ramp in Payal Singhal’s bridal “You’ll never see me on wear. Though she is yet to become the street in a tracksuit. I just a bride in real life, Tanisha looked love fashion too much to wear stunning in a stylish navy blue a tracksuit! The same goes for lehenga, as she became Singhal’s ugg boots. I wear them only at showstopper. She felt encouraged home,” contactmusic.com quot- by her sister Kajol’s presence in the ed the 37-year-old as saying. front row. The former Spice girl, moth- “I think one thing that comes across is that my sister and I are er of seven-month-old daughter very family people. We believe in Harper and sons Brooklyn, 13, each other and we love each other. I Romeo, 9, and Cruz, 7, insists think her love shows through it (her motherhood has done nothing presence),” Tanisha said. to dilute her sense of style. The actress, who was seen in “I’m addicted to Prada, to films like Neal N Nikki and Sarkar cardigans and bags Hermes. I’d Raj, wore a full-sleeved blouse with love to see the world through a lot of detailed stone work. Her le- the eyes of Miuccia Prada. henga was in net and with cut-work ‘I am a big fan of Net-A- embroidery. Singhal wanted to show Porter.com. When the kids Tanisha in bridal wear. She said: are asleep, I can travel on this “Tanisha is a good friend. I wanted A design by Clare to show her in an Indian avatar as Waight Keller site for several hours,” she add- ed. — IANS A design by Valentin Yudashkinthat hasn’t happened before.” Walking the ramp at the Paris show Weekend HEALTH14 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Robotic surgeries costlier but safer, says study ATIENTS who have ro- camera are inserted into the During the last three months bot-assisted surgeries on body through one or two small of 2008 — the most recent data Ptheir kidneys or prostate incisions. available that allowed a com- have shorter hospital stays and Robotic surgery replaces parison among robotic, open a lower risk of having a blood a surgeon's hands with ultra- and laparoscopic surgeries — transfusion or dying — but the precise tools at the ends of me- more than half of all prostate re- bill is significantly higher, a chanical arms, all operated by movals involved robot-assisted study found. the surgeon from a console. surgery. The analysis, which appeared "I think the take home mes- About three per cent of in the Journal of Urology, com- sage is that robotic surgery, prostate patients had standard pared increasingly common looking at our study, had certain laparoscopic surgery and 44 per robotic surgery with two other beneficial outcomes compared cent had open surgery. Open techniques for the same sur- to open and laparoscopic proce- and laparoscopic surgeries were gery and found that direct costs dures," said study leader Jim Hu still more common than robotic can be up to several thousand at Brigham and Women's Hos- surgeries for kidney repairs and dollars higher for the robotic pital in Boston. removals. type. Hu and his team analysed Among patients who had Touted as less invasive and surgery data from a national their prostate removed, none more efficient, robotic surger- government database to see if died from laparoscopic or ro- ies typically use a laparoscopic the costlier robotic surgeries botic surgery, whereas two out or "keyhold surgery" approach, were cost effective with extra of every 1,000 died after the in which tools and a tiny video benefits over older techniques. open procedure. — Reuters Vitamin D tied to fewer Sun-dried tomato Abnormal breathing triggers hyperactivity linked to hepatitis OUNG children who stress fractures in girls have difficulty in breath- Ying while asleep tend to IRLS and young women to get enough through food, develop hyperactivity and ag- who took lots of vitamin doctors recommend taking sup- gressiveness, as well as emo- GD were half as likely to plements. tional symptoms and difficulty suffer a stress fracture as those Researchers have wondered with peer relationships. who didn’t get much of the vi- whether eating a high-calcium The study, conducted by tamin, according to a US study diet with lots of dairy products researchers at Albert Einstein that followed thousands of girls. might protect against stress College of Medicine of Yeshiva Stress fractures are small fractures, but in the study it was University, is based on 11,000 cracks in the bones that typi- high levels of vitamin D that children followed up over six cally affect people who do lots were tied to fewer fractures, not years and is the largest and most of high-impact exercise, such as calcium. comprehensive of its kind. running or gymnastics. They’re For the study, published in “This is the strongest evi- especially a concern for teen the Archives of Paediatrics & dence to date that snoring, mouth girls because bone strength at Adolescent Medicine, the re- RITISH health experts are breathing and apnea (abnormal- that age is tied to the risk of os- searchers followed close to Binvestigating an outbreak ly long pauses in breathing dur- alike should be paying closer during sleep. Its hallmarks are teoporosis and more serious in- 7,000 girls who were the daugh- of potentially deadly hepatitis juries later on. ters of women participating in ing sleep) can have serious be- attention to sleep-disordered snoring (which is usually ac- linked to sun-dried tomatoes. havioural and social-emotional breathing in young children, companied by mouth breathing) “This study can add to the the long-term Nurses’ Health A probe by the The Health existing thought that adolescent Study. consequences for children,” said perhaps as early as the first year and sleep apnea, according to an Protection Agency of cases of study leader Karen Bonuck, pro- of life,” added Bonouck, the Einstein statement. girls and young women should Starting when the girls were hepatitis A from July to Decem- be particularly cognisant of get- between nine and 15-years-old, fessor of obstetrics and gynae- journal Paediatrics reports. SDB reportedly peaks from ber last year revealed seven cas- cology and women’s health at Sleep-disordered breath- two to six years of age, but also ting their vitamin D,” said Ken- the researchers surveyed them es in which sun-dried tomatoes drin Sonneville, from Children’s every year or so between 1996 Einstein. ing (SDB) is a general term for occurs in younger children. were implicated. “Parents and paediatricians breathing difficulties that occur — IANS Hospital Boston, who worked and 2001 about their typical eat- Hepatitis A is infectious and on the study. ing habits and use of vitamin can lead to fatal liver complica- Vitamin D is naturally present supplements. From that infor- tions. in fatty fish, but is also added to mation they calculated how Health officials fear contam- dairy products like milk and yo- much vitamin D each girl got in inated samples or other foods Chronic liver disease cure on the horizon gurt. Since it’s not always easy a typical day. — Reuters containing them could still be on sale or lurking in kitchen illnesses can only be cured by About 16,000 people in cupboards, the Daily Mail re- organ transplants. Britain died last year of liver ported. Researchers have worked disease, and the number of This is because they are un- out how to stimulate the pro- people on the waiting list for able to test food for the virus duction of vital liver cells organ transplants has increased and do not know which brand of known as hepatocytes that are from about 300 five years ago sun-dried tomato is responsible. lost when the liver is attacked to nearly 500 now, according Sun-dried tomatoes have be- by potentially fatal conditions to the newspaper. come an increasingly popular such as cirrhosis or chronic The latest research, pub- ingredient in middle class kitch- hepatitis, The Independent has lished in the journal Nature ens and favourite of TV celeb- reported. Medicine, has unravelled the rity chefs. CIENTISTS have made Liver disease is the fifth network of complex biochem- The hepatitis A virus is car- San important breakthrough biggest killer in Britain and is ical signals that trigger the re- ried by human faeces and can be that could eventually lead the only major cause of death generation of cells within the passed on through contaminated to the development of new that has seen a continual year- liver, the body’s main organ for food or water. It is a common treatments for chronic liver on-year increase over the past filtering harmful toxins from food-borne disease preventable illnesses. At present such 40 years. the bloodstream. — IANS by vaccine. — IANS Weekend ENTERTAINMENT15 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Ex-Miss Universe says she’s blessed ORMER Miss Universe the number Tocame la tambora Amelia Vega says she is — which she performs with the F“blessed by God” for hav- help of iconic Dominican singer ing made her dream to record Johnny Ventura — can currently her first album and start her be heard on the radio. own home a reality, after her She is also promoting a sec- December wedding to NBA star ond version of the tune on which and fellow Dominican Al Hor- only Vega — who before becom- ford. ing a beauty queen performed in To the happiness arising from musicals — sings. those two circumstances can be “I’m reintegrating myself” added her next appearance in after her Christmas eve wed- Miami, where she will open for ding “into promoting the album her uncle, well-known singer- and the tour in the cities where songwriter Juan Luis Guerra, at concerts are opening”, the singer a March 17 concert. said. “I’m happy. I think the word Vega said that she has a heavy is blessed, I have to give thanks work agenda that she is combin- to God for giving me the oppor- view with EFE. ing with her responsibilities as tunity for many of my dreams, She said that on the work a housewife, but she added that despite the fact that some took front she is once again devoting she has the support of Horford, Bollywood actress Sonali a while to arrive, to be coming herself fully to promoting her al- who plays for the NBA’s Atlanta Bendre showcases a design by together,” Vega said in an inter- bum “Agua dulce”, from which Hawks. — IANS Siddhartha Tytler at LFW Bipasha clears equation with Madhavan CTRESS Bipasha Basu is ple sound shallow and nasty! Amiffed with reports that she Even if its a tabloid news,” she is apprehensive about working added. with her “Jodi Breakers” co-star A tabloid reported that R Madhavan again as the film Bipasha is “willing to be part of has failed to mint moolah at the a sequel (to Jodi Breakers) but box office. has apparently said that if Mad- “I detest vicious Gossip!@ dy is part of the cast, she will not ActorMadhavan is one of my be in it.” most favourite co-stars and I Madhavan gave a comforting would love to work with him on response to Bipasha through a a film which we both like and tweet, saying: “<@bipsluvurself suit,” Bipasha wrote on Twitter. heyy.. Of course we will. Don’t Actress Emily Blunt arrives at the Premiere of CBS Films’ “Power of writing should worry abt what these losers say. Actress Hannah Simone Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, in Los Angeles not be misused to that extent to When has it ever mattered.. Yen- arrives at The Paley Centre create gossip which makes peo- jooy..have a wonderful day.” For Media’s PaleyFest Marriage makes me feel Rihanna eyeing fashion career? secure: Claire Danes INGER Rihanna, who has worked with designer CTRESS Claire Danes, S Awho won the Golden Globe Giorgio Armani, is now eying a award for best actress in a TV career in the world of fashion. series — drama for her role in The 24-year-old recently de- Homeland, says she feels more signed a collection for Armani, secure after marrying Hugh and she said she has been play- Dancy. ing around with style designs The 32-year-old, who previ- and even tries to give him some ously dated musician Ben Lee advice. and actor Billy Crudup, tied the “We have a pretty good rela- knot with Dancy in 2009, and tionship now since we have been credits him with keeping her working together on the cam- happy. paigns and I’ve been designing “My mum Carla taught me a capsule line for his collection that a long marriage can work. so he trusts my designs a little My parents have been together bit now so I get to play with since they were 18 so I am privi- him. It’s great,” showbizspy. leged to have them as role mod- els,” femalefirst.co.uk quoted com quoted Rihanna as saying. Danes as saying. “I designed it with Giorgio. “I like marriage. I feel very It was a collaboration and I secure. It helps when you are helped him design it. I wanted in love with the person you are something a little bit Michelle married to. I do sometimes look Pfeiffer in Scarface... simple but at him and think, ‘You are really sexy and a little gangster at the Actress Megan Fox attends the Cinema Society & People handsome.’ same time. I think it just showed StyleWatch with Grey Goose screening of He keeps me sane and hap- Actress Lucy Hale seen at the that we work really well togeth- Friends With Kids in New York City py,” she said. — IANS Cosmopolitan Fun Awards er,” she added. — IANS Weekend BOOK16 FAIR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2012 Muscat Book Fair making words go further tthishis exhibition since its incepincep-- tion,i bbecause iits iimportant placel in gathering and joining huge number of visitors, readers and publishers from various coun- tries. Most of the publishers are displaying books that attract students and help them in their studies and develop their abili- ties in various fields of sciences. There are also many titles on an- cient and modern history, geog- raphy and various other subjects in Arabic and English. School students are thrilled to visit the exhibition as they this exhibition since its third ics, titles and authors to look for see it as a chance to buy simpli- version. Every time we have as; Qanon Al Jathb by Dr Saleh fied scientific books which help new books and publications to al Rashid; Play with your child them to understand better what present. Most visitors are look- smart games by Salma Tariq; they have studied in school; books on ancient civilisations to know the way of lifestyle of that time. Besides the fair gives them a chane to buy entertain- By Ra’al al Jardaniya as encyclopaedias, dictionaries and literature. ment books, fictions and novels and books that they consider as Al Farahidi and Ahmad bin that full of excitement, adven- OW in its 17th year, the worth to be read and viewed. Majid halls for Arabic books ture and suspense. Muscat International Fatima, a student, said, NBook Fair continues to “Since I’m a student of higher be the global market place for studies, I wait for this book fair sales and distribution of books every year to finish my projects of all kinds. and researches. The reason for The Book Fair is one of the this waiting is that some pub- biggest in the Middle East with lishers and publications are 500 exhibitors from 21 countries not available in the Sultanate featuring over 110,000 titles. and instead of going abroad Most of the visitors to the and finding them, the book fair fair consider this international brings them all to us under one event as an opportunity to buy a roof which save us time and ef- ing for scientific books and this How to strengthen my son’s per- variety of Arab and internation- fort and helps us to finish our year we brought many new and sonality by Mohammed Fahad al titles. Publishers are looking works efficiently.” scientific books that help vari- aL Thwaini; Change your life at this as a chance to promote The book Fair also has a number and publications attract the Mohammed from Dar al ous levels of minds.” in 30 days by Ibrahim al Faqi; their new publications of local of literary evenings, seminars most number of visitors. Many Safa publication said, “The pub- Majority of people who visit Sultanate of Oman Tribes by and international writers as well and events dealing with culture publishers are participating in lication started to participate in the book fair have common top- Mohammed Suliman al Taib.

Most of the visitors to the fair consider this international event as an opportunity to buy a variety of Arab and international titles. Publishers are looking at this as a chance to promote their new publications of local and international writers

Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising; P.O. Box 974, Postal Code 100, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman; Tel: Chief Executive Officer: 24649444, 24649450, 24649451, 24604563, 24699437 Š Fax: 24699643 Š Website: omanobserver.om Š e-mail: editor@omanobserver. Dr Ibrahim bin Ahmed al Kindi om Š Salalah Office: Tel: 23292633, Fax: 23293909 Š Nizwa Office: Tel: 25411099, P.O. Box 955, P.C. 611 Š ADVERTISING: AL OMANEYA ADVERTISING & PUBLIC RELATIONS, P.O. Box 3303, Postal Code 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman, Tel: SWITCHBOARD: 24649444, DIR Editor-in-Chief ECT: 24649430/24649437/24649401, Fax: 24649434 Š DISTRIBUTION AGENT: AL OMANEYA FOR DISTRIBUTION & MARKETING, Fahmy bin Khalid al Harthy P.O. Box 974, P.C. 100, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, Tel: 24649350/24649360, Fax: 24649379, [email protected]