The inflight magazine of Oman Air

December 2010

Bangkok
City of Angels

It’s Oman
Dhow for a dowry

Health
Nine spice nutrition

Tate Britain
Oman 40th National Day Art Expo OMAN AIR: OFFICIAL AIRLINE
Marhaba
Welcome to Oman Air and the latest issue of Wings
of Oman.
The past year has been a momentous one for Oman Air.
Following the introduction of eight superb new routes to our
network since January, as well as the launch of our new
service this month from Muscat to Milan, the number of
destinations we fly to will reach 41. The addition of new
Airbus A330 aircraft to our fleet and our pioneering of
inflight mobile phone and Wi-Fi connectivity are just two
further elements of a transformation of Oman Air over the
last 12 months, which has established us as an international
airline of the highest quality.
As a result, we are now carrying more passengers
than ever before – indeed, more customers travelled
with Oman Air in the first nine months of this year
than in the whole of 2009.
The number of visitors to Oman has also increased
significantly. The Sultanate is gaining increasing awareness
and recognition as an exceptional destination, with breath-
taking landscapes, outstanding hotels that offer world-class
hospitality, and a seemingly infinite variety of leisure options.
Oman’s growing popularity for visitors owes much to
the vision of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. Under his
guidance, Oman has emerged as a modern, forward-
looking country, whilst retaining a strong sense of the
culture and history - a blend that makes the Sultanate such
a unique destination. His Majesty’s achievements since
his accession to the throne in 1970 are phenomenal,and
the country has just enjoyed a thrilling series of celebrations
marking his 40th anniversary.
The anniversary attracted a huge level of international
interest and the spotlight has remained on Oman this
month, as the Sultanate hosts the Asian Beach Games
2010.Bringing together thousands of athletes from 45
countries, playing 14 different sports and watched by an
expected 50 000 spectators, in addition to millions in front
of their TV screens, the Games promise to be a spectacular
success and Oman Air is proud to be the Official Airline
Partner for the event.
Looking forward, the coming year looks set to
be no less eventful than the last. Oman Air will
be introducing more aircraft and launching more
exciting destinations, while the Sultanate’s legendary
hospitality looks set to be enjoyed by record numbers of
visitors. I look forward to bringing you news of these
developments in future issues of Wings of Oman.
In the meantime, I wish you the warmest of
season’s greetings and all the best for a happy and
prosperous New Year.
Peter Hill
Chief Executive Officer
Contents Get Thai’d
There is something for everyone in Bangkok, whether you are in the mood for bargain
hunting, cultural tours or a throbbing nightlife!

Dreams and a dowry

Could there be anything more romantic than a night
24
aboard a traditional dhow on the Sea of Oman?

16
Think before you click
About to press send on your email? Wait a moment. Have a
rethink. Are you being rude or abrupt?

22
Nine spice nutrition
28
Add heat and colour to your meals with this guide Fashion & Trends
to the health benefits of spices. Little black numbers for the ladies and bling for
the men. It’s where the fashionistas are at!
Contents
World View
Breathtaking, eye-catching pics from Planet Earth. 38 The Art of
seeing Nature

32
Masterpieces from Tate Britain at
Sayyid Faisal bin Ali Museum

34 Sports
From adventure
kayaking to desert
trekking, sport is hotting
up this December.
40
36 Reviews
A selection of some of the top reads
and latest movies on circuit this month.

Kids Corner
Entertain the kids with this selection of cartoons
and puzzles, or shed a load yourself.

42 Culture & Heritage

Got camera, will travel! Three stunning
wadis in the Sultanate of Oman.

Oman Air’s inflight magazine is issued by: For advertising enquiries contact the publisher: The publisher regrets
that they cannot accept
Corporate Communications & National Publishing And liability for errors or
Media Department - Oman Air Advertising LLC omissions contained in this
P.O. Box 58, Muscat International Airport, P.O. Box 3112, P.C. 112, Ruwi publication, however caused.
Postal Code 111, Sultanate of Oman Muscat, Sultanate of Oman The opinions and views
Tel: +968 24519616, Fax: +968 24510771 Tel: +968 24793098 contained in this publication
E-mail: wings@omanair.com Fax: +968 24708445 are not necessarily those of
Website: www.omanair.com E-mail: advertising@npaoman.com the publisher.
6 International Destination
Get
One night in Bangkok and the world’s your
oyster! So wrote wordsmith Tim Rice in
Thai’d
the 1980’s classic musical Chess, which
immortalised Thailand’s capital both as den
of iniquity and cultural melting pot steeped
in the wisdom of ages. It would take a lifetime
to explore, so if you only have a few days, here
are some must-see attractions.
Grand landmark
Bangkok, City of Angels, is an The Grand Palace, Bangkok’s most famous
landmark, is a grand old architectural dame,
intoxicating blend of poignant
and the spiritual heart of the Thai nation.
past and pushy present, of
courtly culture and chaotic
Built in 1782, the palace served as the Thai
capitalism. In fact, there’s even
king’s home and court until the start of the
a famous song about it!
20th century, housing the royal mint and
various government ministries. Set aside a
whole day to take in the marvellously intricate
architecture throughout the palace, as well as
the multitude of stunning buildings within
the palace grounds, for example Wat Phra
Kaew, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
This is the most important temple in the
whole country, as it houses a tiny,
14th-century green jade Buddha.
A strict dress code applies.
Image sources: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Photolibrary
Surreal shrines
The temples are not just tourist attractions - Buddhist monks live in
them and they play an important role in the country’s religious affairs.
One of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, Wat Arun, locally known as
Wat Chaeng, lies on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. If you are a
keen photographer, visit at sunset or dawn when the play of light on the
coloured glass in the 70-m high spire is quite surreal.
International Destination 7
The largest temple in Bangkok is Wat Pho,
or Reclining Buddha, situated behind the
Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It houses a
magnificent gold statue of a reclining Buddha.
Guides are available.
A little history
Pay a visit to the world’s largest building made
entirely of golden teak. The Mansion is a
museum-style tribute to the old king, Rama V’s
reign and walking through the peaceful rooms
is like stepping back in time into an era of
gentility and other-worldly elegance.
Get up early, put your
best bargaining hat on,
hire a long-tailed boat and
spend a few hours at the
numerous floating markets
Rooms contain snapshots of life at the turn of
the 20th century. On the same grounds, other
buildings also serve as museums, for example
the Abhisek Dusit Hall, which showcases
rural craftwork collected by Queen Sirikit.
The Mansion is located on Ratchawithi Road
behind the National Assembly, and guided
tours are available.
8 International Destination

King klong The Taling Chan floating market is a weekend

From James Bond movies to National Geographic travel market in front of Taling Chan district office.
documentaries, the waterways, or klongs, of Bangkok are world- The Wat Sai market is in Bangkok’s Thonburi
famous. Early travellers here were so taken by the snaking area. If you have a day to kill, the Ratchaburi
klongs that they promptly called Bangkok the Venice of the floating market is situated about 100km west
East. Buddhist temples stand on the river banks side by side of Bangkok, and is the largest such market
with old wooden houses and swanky new hotel developments. in the country. The sheer enthusiasm and
Early risers will see thousands of business folk, saffron-robed colourul hustle and bustle of these markets
monks, schoolchildren and vegetable sellers speeding past on will be indelibly branded into your memory
motorised river taxis, overtaking cumbersome rice barges and by way of parting gift!
whipping the water into a frenzy of activity.
Dinner cruises
Floating markets Romantic, luxurious, tasty and hospitable
Get up early, put your best bargaining hat on, hire a long- - what better way to pass an evening with
tailed boat and spend a few hours at the numerous floating friends or loved ones than on a river
markets, which are among the most dinner cruise? Bangkok at night
photographed places in the whole comes alive in an explosion of
country. Every day vendors neon lights, glimmering temples
come, as has been and shimmering skyscrapers.
happening for Several different companies offer
centuries, to ply and dinner cruises, but one of the
barter their wares. most unforgettable is on the
Colourful and chaotic, 50-year-old, restored teak
a tour of the floating Manhora rice barge, where
markets gives you a candlelit cuisine meets
glimpse into life before culture. For a selection
modern supermarkets of different tours
and mass-produced and boats, go to
consumerism. www.bangkok.com
and click on
“dinner cruises”.
10 International Destination

Vantage points
One fantastic way to take in this heady city is from
one of Bangkok’s many trendy, rooftop venues. Make
sure you arrive just before the sun sets to get a superb
view of the play of orange light on the Chao Praya
River. There are too many venues to list here, but
some of the best views can be seen from Thailand’s
tallest building, the 88-storey Baiyoke Sky Hotel.
The city’s second tallest building, State Tower has
a Sky Bar which changes colour every few minutes.
Whatever your nocturnal tastes, these rooftop venues
will cater for you, from jazz and cigar bars to elegant
hammocks and cocktails. For a selection and review of
more sky bars, visit www.bangkok.com/nightlife.

Kicks above the waistline

No trip to Thailand would be complete without an
evening at a Muay Thai competition. This ancient
martial art places emphasis on spirituality, ceremony
and discipline. Look out for each boxer wearing a
mong kon, or sacred headband, and pra jiad, sacred
armband. The best venues to take in a Muay Thai
fight are the Lumpini and Ratchadamneon stadiums.
Make sure you buy tickets from authorised vendors in
ticket booths at the stadium.

It’s a drag, it’s a bore

Right, so the kids are not interested in cultural tours
or nightlife. They want to be entertained in their
own way! Fair enough. Bangkok offers plenty of
educational and entertaining things to do for children.
How about a trip to Siam Ocean World, one of the
largest aquariums in Southeast Asia? Been there,
done that? Try out Siam Water Park, Asia’s biggest
water theme park. Parents can chill under a coconut
tree while their water-babies have fun on waterslides
and in swimming pools, under the eyes of qualified
lifeguards. The Park also has playgrounds, a zoo and
aviary and most important of all, fast food outlets!
Other venues for youthful minds include Dream
World amusement park, Safari World and Sampran
Elephant Ground and Zoo (be sure to take in the
elephant football). Visit www.bangkok.com/kids for
more on what to do if you are with your family.
12 International Destination

Learn Thai Country Facts

Basics
Hello : Sawa dee
How are you? : Sabai dee reu?
What is your name? : Kun cheo arai?
Yes : Chai
No : Mai
OK : Tok long
No problem : Mai pen rai
How much? : Gee baht?
Please : Dai prod
Welcome : Yin dee krap
Thank you : Kob khun (male);
kob khun ka (female)
Excuse me : Kaw-tot
Fine : Di-mak
Good morning : Sawatdee ka
Good evening : Sayansawas
Goodbye : La gon
Oman Air flies nine times a week to Bangkok.
Visa requirements: All nationalities require passports valid for at
least six months. Travellers entering Thailand for less than 30 days are
required to prove they have sufficient funds to cover the length of their
stay, and are recommended to hold documentation for return/onward
travel. If issued a visa prior to arrival, travellers are permitted to travel on
a one-way ticket. Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at
short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with
their embassy or consulate. If you plan to stay for longer than 30 days, you
must apply for a tourism visa at the nearest Thai embassy.
Languages spoken: The official language is Thai, although English is
considered the second language.
Currency: Currency: Baht bills come in denominations of 1 000,
500, 100, 50 and 20. Coins are 10, 5, 1 and satangs. Satangs are quarter
fractions of 1 and are not widely used.

Numbers
0 : Sun 6 : Hok
1 : Neung 7 : Chet
2 : Song 8 : Pet
3 : Sam 9 : Kao
4 : Si 10 : Sip
5 : Ha
14 International Destination

Traditional recipe
Thai food is known the world over for its effortless blending of spicy hot and delicate flavours.
Complex curries include garlic, galangal, coriander roots, lemon grass, kefir lime peel and
peppercorns. Authentic Thai meals begin with a soup, and then comes a curry dish with
condiments, or a spicy salad.
Thai yellow curry - Ingredients: Method (Serves four)
Similar to an Indian curry, this is a creamy dish Slowly pour the thick coconut cream into a wok or large frying pan and
based on coconut milk, chicken legs or breasts fry for five minutes. Stir continuously until the coconut oil separates out.
and potatoes. Serve with a cucumber salad. Next, add the yellow curry paste and the yellow curry powder and fry for
• 300g chicken breast, thinly sliced just under two minutes. When the paste is cooked, add the chicken and
• 250mls thick coconut cream sweet potato and cook until the outside of the chicken becomes white.
• 250mls thin coconut milk Next, add the thin coconut milk and bring to the boil. Slowly add the
• 1 teaspoon yellow curry powder palm sugar until it melts and then add the soy sauce. Simmer for about
• 4 tablespoons yellow curry paste five minutes until the chicken and potato are cooked.
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed Prepare the salad in the normal way, pouring the syrup and vinegar
and boiled for five minutes. over the cucumber pieces, before sprinkling with roasted peanuts and
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar chopped coriander.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
Cucumber Salad
• 6 tablespoons sugar syrup
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 4 tablespoons cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1.5 tablespoons ground roasted peanuts
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh coriander
leaves - chopped
• Red chilli to taste
16 Lead Feature
Dreams
and a dowry
Spend a night on board a romantic Omani dhow
There comes a time in every young man’s life, before he gets married, when
siren songs seize his heart. The rage of spring hormones heats his creative
sap and he must devise a plan, a destination, a dance that will sweep his
intended lady love off her feet and fuel a lifetime of romantic memories
and nostalgic dreams.
What better than an evening aboard a traditional dhow - a marriage
of three of mankind’s most precious elements - earth, in the form of
a wooden dhow, water, represented by a turquoise ocean, and spirit,
symbolised by the stars at night. All together under Arabian skies.
Image sources:
Khalil Al Zadjali
Craig Bishop
Abdullah Al Shuhi
Man-shaped souls
American classic author John Steinbeck knew
well the relationship between boats and people,
when he wrote in The Log from the Sea of
Cortez these haunting lines: “Man, building this
greatest and most personal of all tools, has in
turn received a boat-shaped mind, and the boat,
a man-shaped soul. His spirit and the tendrils
of his feeling are so deep in a boat that the
identification is complete.”
He could have written these words for the
fisherfolk and sailors of Oman. Their truly
ancient waterways - the Arabian Gulf, the Sea of
Oman, the Straits of Hormuz - the very names
conjure daydreams of fantastical fable - were well-
plied paths even then for the original old men of
the sea who sailed past the horizon and traded
frankincense for silks, pearls, copper and marble
for tea, news for news. There is evidence that
as far back as the 8th century, an Omani dhow
sailed to Canton in China. Several years ago, a
replica of these dhows, the Sohar, sailed again to
Canton without using any modern navigational
aids, in celebration of the two countries’ historical
and contemporary ties.
Top destination: These days of course,
the dhows have found their place in the
international tourist’s mind as an exotic and
Lead Feature 17
romantic glimpse into yesteryear. That is fitting in a country like Oman,
which the international women’s glamour magazine Vogue chose as
the top travel destination for 2008. That was shortly after the London
Sunday Telegraph newspaper had listed the Sultanate as one of its top
12 desirable destinations. Both publications made much of Oman’s lush
wadis, diverse markets and rich culture. Both publications highlighted the
fact that Oman was an unexploited gem, less known than its cosmopolitan
neighbour Dubai, boasting a glorious winter climate, breath-taking
mountains, deserts, ancient cities and, of course, its more than 3000-km
dramatic coastline, part of which you can enjoy from the dhow.
In the salty heat haze of a weekday
afternoon, every nook and cranny of
Muscat’s folded, sere coastline could be
Sinbad’s special haunt
All aboard: Anyway, any young man wanting to sweep his partner off her
feet, or anyone wanting to rekindle romance, how does a cruise under the stars
sound, on your very own fully-crewed traditional Omani wood dhow, with a
lush Arabian feel and soft carpets on the floor? One option is through Muscat
Diving and Adventure Centre, on board the Adhari, an Al Boum-style
dhow, which operates fromMarina Bander al Rowdha on the maps between
Al Bustan and Sidab. Built in 1984, and restored in 2006, and constructed
according to traditional techniques of Omani Simr wood, the Adhari is
almost 20m long, and displaces 46 tonnes. The style onboard is, of course,
traditional Omani with carpet, majilis seating, cushions and lanterns.
18 Lead Feature
Boarding time is 3.45pm which gives enough
time for an hour’s cruise along Oman’s coastline
before the sun sets. There will be two crew
members, including the skipper. And, in the salty
heat haze of a weekday afternoon, every nook and
cranny of Muscat’s folded, sere coastline could be
Sinbad’s special haunt.
Eyes pinched tight against the glare off turquoise
waves, you might find yourself trying to will into
existence the sneaky prow of a fantastical dhow.
Squint even harder and you can almost picture
the fabled Roc swooping and shrieking above the
good ship Chimera.
Waves good night: The skipper will sail into
one of the protected fjords and this the best time
and place for a snorkel or a paddle in a kayak around the secluded bays before
dinner. Dinner will be served on board and consists of a sumptuous spread of
meats and vegetable dishes with salads, fresh Arabic bread and humus. This
will then be followed by Omani sweets with Arabic coffee and dates!
Your bed is covered in rich coloured rugs
and soft pillows for a sensual Queen of
Sheba-style night under the stars
After all the afternoon activity, sleep will come easily and on the raised
back deck you will find your own private sleeping area with a washing and
dressing room. The flowing thick drapes will provide privacy from the
deck below and you can relax on the big majlis style cushions enjoying the
tranquil sounds of the sea.
If you want music, the crew have their own selection, or you can always bring
your own CDs. Your bed is covered in rich coloured rugs and soft pillows for a
sensual Queen of Sheba-style night under the stars.
20 Lead Feature
Dawn on the ocean: Could there be
anything more special than waking up to a
glorious orange sunrise breaking over the waves?
If you are lucky, a pod of dolphins will gather
around the dhow, providing a truly perfect end to
the trip. While the crew prepare your breakfast,
it is time for a quick dip in the sea before setting
down to yet another fine spread. As you tuck
into your fruits and sip your coffee, the crew will
weigh anchor and set sail on a leisurely cruise
around the bays before the return to Muscat.
Know before you go
• 400 OMR per night charter price (for up to
four adults), plus dinner @ per person price
from 12 or upward (tailored to suit).
• Timings 4:30pm to 9:30am.
• Includes breakfast, soft drinks, snorkelling equipment, kayaks.
Excludes transport to and from marina.
• Cancellation within two weeks results in full price to be paid.
• The dhow is equipped with flushing toilet/changing room, buoyancy
aids, two life-rafts.
• Timings can be flexible to suit guests depending on existing
previous bookings.
Don’t forget to bring:
• Light comfortable clothing. A shawl to keep warm during winter
months.
• Swimming costume. Sun cream, sun hat, sunglasses.
• Camera. (Underwater camera if you want to take shots of the
fantastic marine life while snorkelling).
Website: www.holiday-in-oman.com
22 Health & Beauty
Nine spice nutrition
Rack up the health benefits of nature’s little helpers, which drove the course of
empires for millennia, and are guaranteed to add zing to your cuisine
Mankind has known about the health benefits of spices for thousands
of years. Their unique flavours are actually toxic in concentrated doses.
Plants produce the chemicals we know as spices to deter predators from
eating their leaves or berries, and scientists believe that humans only
Saffron
One of the most expensive spices on
the planet, this fragrant orange plant, a
member of the crocus family, has eye-
opening health benefits, literally. Regular usage
may protect and correct vision in people who have retinitis pigmentosa or
muscular degeneration due to old age. Saffron is also a powerful antioxidant,
specifically targeting the human genes which regulate levels of fatty acids in our
bodies. Experts believe that eating saffron regularly may also combat asthma,
insomnia and depression.
Serving suggestion: Soak a few strands of saffron in milk, add some cinnamon
and cardamom to flavour a delicious rice pudding.
Turmeric
Native to south Asia and a member of the
ginger family, this rich yellow spice is one
of nature’s most powerful healers. Used for
more than 4 000 years in topical traditional
Indian medicine as well as cuisine, its active
ingredient curcumin has been shown to
combat a range of maladies, including cancer,
arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, obesity, psoriasis, melanoma and even gallstones.
Serving suggestion: For use in cooking rice, add a quarter teaspoonful of
turmeric powder to water per cup of rice.
Cardamom
Originating on the sub-continent, cardamom seeds
have been used in Indian cuisine for millennia. A
relative of ginger, it is most commonly used in
curries and pilaf rice dishes, although it can also
be used in sweets. The seeds contain an oil that
helps to stimulate digestion and relieve stomach ache.
Serving suggestion: Mix a handful of crushed seeds in a
cup of water with some ginger. Bring to a boil, remove from heat and add a little
warm milk and honey.
Cinnamon
A whole range of traditional sweets, cakes and desserts
contain this delicious spice. Cinnamon is actually the
dried bark of the wild cinnamon tree and it has plenty of
healthy properties. It contains the pain reliever eugenol, and
a sedative. Research shows that regular use can improve
blood circulation and lower blood sugar levels. This makes it
effective in the treatment of Type Two diabetes.
Serving suggestion: Sprinkle a teaspoonful of cinnamon over
fruit and yoghurt for a tasty, healthy snack, or use instead of
sugar in your coffee.
Cloves
(Image sources: Photolibrary; iStockphoto)
The unopened buds of the evergreen clove tree have long been used as an
additive for fruit dishes like apple crumble, and mulled
wine. The oil from the buds has antiseptic properties
which make it ideal for use as a mouthwash and
for combating toothache. Cloves contain eugenol
which is an anti-inflammatory and can help ease
arthritis, reduce congestion and stimulate digestion.
developed a taste for these specific toxins Serving suggestion: For a delicious cup of clove tea, add
because of their positive effect on our bodies. one teaspoon of cloves to a cup of hot water and let stand for
Try to include some of these spices in your 10 minutes. Add honey to sweeten according to taste.
daily diet.
Cumin
Cumin was originally a Mediterranean spice, but
centuries of trade between the region and the Far
East saw it enter Chinese and Japanese cuisine as
well. A member of the carrot family, cumin is most
often used in curries and chillies. Cumin contains
high levels of iron and manganese, and can help
stimulate digestion and prevent bloating.
Serving suggestion: To make cumin tea, brew one
teaspoon of seeds in a pint of boiling water.
Ginger
Anyone who likes sushi knows
all about ginger, an ancient and
popular ingredient in Asian
and Indian cuisine. Ginger is
high in antioxidants and has also been linked to the
reduction of travel sickness and morning sickness.
Serving suggestion: Ginger tea can be made by
adding a few slices to hot water. Try chewing on
a little piece of the root to help with digestive
problems.
Galangal
Also known as
blue ginger,
galangal is
quite common
in South East
Asian cuisine, from where
it found its way into European cooking. It is also
used in perfumes and snuff, as well as an additive
for tea, vinegar and some wines. Galangal is high in
sodium, iron and vitamins A and C and is reputed
to have anti-inflammatory properties. The latest
research suggests that its active ingredient, galangin
is a powerful antioxidant, and as such is effective in
the treatment of certain cancers.
Serving suggestion: Add sliced galangal to a stir-
fry, or in Green and Red Thai curry.
Paprika
If you can stand the heat, these members of
the chilli family are another of nature’s little
helpers. The active ingredient capsaicin has anti-
inflammatory and antioxidant effects which have
been linked to reducing the risk of cancer. Paprika
contains antibacterial agents which can help
improve circulation and aid digestion. They also
contain nine times as much vitamin C as tomatoes.
Serving suggestion: For a
tasty, spicy snack, add two
teaspoonfuls of paprika,
half a teaspoon of thyme
and rosemary powder
to popcorn, or
sprinkle over
a salad for
extra zing.
24 Business
Think before
you click
Are you up to speed on the ‘netiquette’ of
sending an email? Learn the do’s and don’ts
of digital dialogue
Until some bright spark invents the Send
Recall button, we are all stuck with our world
of instant communications. Make no mistake -
instant comms such as MXit, Twitter, MySpace,
Facebook Chat and even SMSes are the future
and the future is now. But, used improperly, the
all powerful Send button can cause, in the best
case scenario, a world of embarrassment and, in
the worst case scenario, a world of
ugly litigation.
(Image sources: Photolibrary; iStockphoto)
The internet is full of examples of emails
that should just never have been sent.
For example the newspaper editor who
mailed a senior colleague saying certain
journalists were, to put it politely, useless at
their job. Except he had mailed the entire
newsroom. Or the chief financial officer
who accidentally mailed details of everyone’s
salaries to the entire company. The only
way he could rectify that situation was to
hit the fire alarm and physically delete the
message from everyone’s computer while the
workforce had left the building.
Is there anything in that
email that you would NOT
want to see on a giant
billboard in front of a jury
in 10 years time? If so do
not send!
So, before you hit the Send button, stop.
Check the addressee. Have another read.
Is there anything in that email that you
would NOT want to see on a giant billboard
in front of a jury in 10 years time? If so,
do not press send! Here are some hard
and fast rules when it comes to digital
communications.
Quick to anger, slow to repent
Never, ever send an email in anger or haste.
The potential for mistakes is enormous, and
chances are you will feel differently about
your intended response once you have had
time to think about it.
Business 25
Who’s who in the zoo?
This might sound simple, but it is quite astounding the amount of
emails that get sent to the wrong recipient. Make sure you double
check the addressee. Sending personal or private information to the
wrong person can quite literally end in tears. Or legal action!
Don’t scream at me
The use of capital letters in an email is seen as the digital equivalent of
shouting and comes across as rude. Avoid at all costs. But don’t use all
lower case letters either - that can be seen as mumbling. Capital letters
have their place. Use it.
Don’t take that tone with me
People pick up on your mood by the words you use and the tone in
which you use them. In the absence of body language, as in an email
conversation, all that’s left is the text. Remember, it is very easy to
come across as rude or curt in an email message, so read over what
you are planning to send. Does it sound friendly and respectful? Have
you started the message with a greeting and ended with a farewell?
Obviously the formality of your message depends on whether you
are mailing your boss or your best mate. Exercise your own good
judgement here!
What’s the magic word?
It is amazing to think, but plenty of people forget to say, “Please” and,
“ Thank you” when they are compiling an email. You wouldn’t do this
is normal speech, so don’t break the cardinal rules of polite speech in
an email.
A follow-on from this rule is
how to address the recipient of
your email. Do you use their first
name or their title and surname?
If you are relying to an email, copy
what the sender did or use your
common sense.
Plz dnt abbrvt
There is nothing more annoying than
receiving an email in what has come to
be known as “internet slang” - the use
of abbreviated words. It might be OK
between good friends, but between anyone
else it comes across as lazy, uncaring and
illiterate. This includes thanx for “thank
you”, plz for “please” and 2 for “to”. If it is
worth taking the time to send the email, it
is worth taking the time to do it properly.
This applies equally to spelling. Use your spell
checker if you are unsure of a word.
26 Business

You live where?
Your email address says a lot about you. If you
are trying to impress a future employer, don’t
send him an email that shows it comes from
hunky@yahoo.com. The same is true for the
SMME sector - be aware that free email IP
addresses such as @hotmail,
@gmail or @yahoo can often be seen as cheap
and unprofessional when they come from a
business. Do some research to find another
service provider.
Recent years have seen the relaxation of rules regarding email evidence in
court cases. Lawyers can dredge up emails that go back years. Even when
you hit the delete button after sending an email, that email is still surfing
around in cyber space waiting to drop into the wrong hands!
Remember, first impressions count. Human beings make a judgement
about a person in the first 10th of a second of meeting them. Most of us
are good at avoiding awkward social gaffes in face-to-face conversation,
but most of us are equally bad at social faux pas when it comes to digital
dialogue. Make sure you take enough time and care to make a good first
impression with your first email.

Language, please
Many people will write something in an
email that they would never say in public or
in a memo. Be aware that the use of insulting
phrases or catty language can come back to
haunt you.
28 Fashion & Trends Fashion & Trends 29

Got her
number Suit yourself
Every woman needs a little Sisters are doing it for themselves,
black number in her closet. It is and they have to look the part!
the perfect garment to slip on It can be a real headache -
when you have an important professional women face some
date, but you are not too sure tough choices when it comes
whether to go for formal or to wardrobe. You want your
smart-casual. It’s your choice colleagues to see you as a serious
whether to plump for the professional, but you don’t want
mini-length or the full-length to become another one of the
versions, but the guiding guys in a suit. The in-look in the
principle is simplicity, elegance boardroom is feminine, flattering
and chic. Get these right and and entirely professional.
this little number will be your www.suitthecity.com
best date for years to come.
www.apricotonline.co.uk

Nightie-
night
Heat up the room on the
coldest winter nights with
your choice of chic and
comfortable, romantic and
sensual bedroom wear.
Whether you are feeling
gorgeous but grumpy,
moody or mischievous,
nothing quite says intimacy
like exquisite pyjamas in a
beautiful setting.
www.lasenza.co.uk
30 Fashion & Trends

Bling it on
Yes! Men wear jewellery too, and have been
for centuries. It tells the world you care
about your image and suggests a definite
self-confidence, whether you are in the
mood for a bracelet, a tie-pin or rings. The
trend at the moment is towards understated
but solid, chunky and retro, which proclaims
elegance and a genteel spirit. Wear with
panache. Wear with pride.
www.lovedazzle.com

Style tips
Every man needs at least one necklace
and one ring in his accessory collection.
Necklaces should be bold and simple, not
multi-colored, clumsy or overweight. Same
goes for rings. As a general rule, try to limit
yourself to neutral colors that match most
of your clothes. That way you’ll be able to
wear your necklace and your ring everyday
with any piece of clothing you have available.
Unless you are a pop star, the rule is one
necklace, one ring at a time!
32 World View World View 33

Twisted sister
A British bi-plane stunt team, Saint-Ivel Utterly Butterfly, fly
in extremely close formation as twin sisters Poppy Dover and
Libby Dover prepare to grab each other, while pilots Martin
Carrington and Mike Dentith guide their Boeing PT17s.
(Photo: Gerard Vandystadt/Photolibrary.com)

Bear with me
Grizzly bears, sparring in a meadow along Kukak Bay in
late summer in Katmai National Park, Alaska. The sparring
establishes alpha male dominance among adult males.
(Photo: Paul Souders/ Gettyimages.com)

Falling for you

112 Australian skydivers break their national record for the Hatch back
most number of freefallers in a formation over Perris Valley, A warden holds baby green turtles which he has picked up from the
California. Using precision timing and a well-rehearsed routine, beach at Ras al Jinz, in Oman, at sunrise. He will keep the babies in
a safe environment throughout the heat of the day and release them
the divers form a giant circle with spokes circling out from the
back into the sea in the evening when they stand more chance of
middle, all the while plummeting towards the earth at 195km/h. survival. (Photo: John Warburton-Lee/Photolibrary.com)
(Photo by Norman Kent/Barcroft Media/Getty Images)
Tall tails
Bottlenose dolphins jumping out of water at sunset in Honduras.
Scientists are undecided whether dolphins leap out of the water to
identify prey, to show off to prospective mates, to rid themselves off
parasites, or just for fun! (Photo: Brandon Cole/Photolibrary.com)

Narrow squeaks
Stomach-churning images show danger-man
Eskil Ronningsbakken balancing on a ladder placed
on a rock wedged between two cliff faces, more than
1 400m above the ground. Eskil uses yoga to train and
prepare for his bold shapes in dangerous places. (Photo
by Sindre Lundvold/Barcroft Media/Getty Images)

34 Sports
Extreme sports
Kiulu 4M Challenge, Sabah, Malaysia
December 5
A traditional high adrenalin sports
competition, which incorporates four
events that begin with the letter “M” in
the Kadazandusun language: Manang’kus
(running), Mamang’kar (rafting),
Manam’patau (swimming with bamboo pole)
and Mamaram’panau (walking on bamboo
stilts). The 4M promises a wet and fun
time for all in the scenic, mountainous and
thickly forested countryside of Kiulu. The
event also aims at promoting eco-tourism
in the 13 member-states of Malaysia and
instil environmental awareness among the
community. This year, a new event will be a
high adrenalin men’s event which involves
running and bamboo rafting over a distance
of 13km. Visit www.sabahtourism.com for
more information.
Asian Beach Games
Muscat, Oman
December 8 -16
Oman hosts the second biennial Asian Beach Games
in which 45 national teams will go head to head in 14
modern and traditional eco-friendly sports. The Games
take place at the Al-Musannah Sports City, 125km north
of Muscat, and at various beaches around Muscat. Events
include sailing, beach football, beach volleyball, water-ski,
jet ski, marathon swimming, water polo, bodybuilding,
beach wood ball, beach sepaktakraw, beach
kabaddi, tent pegging and beach handball.
Visit www.muscat2010.org.om for
more information.
35
Sports
Adventure
racing
Abu Dhabi Challenge
December 10 - 15
The six-day endurance race will see
teams of four start with a triathlon-
style event around Abu Dhabi
City, before moving to Al Ain for a
confrontation with the Jebel Hafeet
mountains. Next up is a traverse of
one of the world’s largest deserts, the
Rub’ al Khali, and then a final sea
kayak race back to Abu Dhabi city.
This is the first time the race will
start and finish in the UAE capital.
Last year the event was won by Kiwi
husband and wife team, Richard and
Elina Ussher with adventure racing
expert Nathan Fa’avae. Live race
coverage and information at
www.abudhabi-adventure.com.
Swimming draw more 30 000 visitors, as well as scores of
FINA World Short Course Champs media from over 140 countries. This, the 10th
December 15 - 19, Dubai FINA Champs, will include diving, swimming,
State-of-the-art swimming facilities at the new Dubai Sports Complex will open water swimming, synchronised swimming
host more than 1 000 top international swimmers for the five day World and water polo. The opening ceremony starts
Swimming Championships. This is the biennial short course competition, at 17h30 on December 15, and will include
meaning events are held in 25m pools. This makes for speedy, thrilling a spectacular exhibition followed by the
races where the ability to turn quickly is crucial. The event is expected to customary Parade of Nations.
36 Reviews Reviews 37

The Chronicles Of Narnia: Legacy Half Broke Horses

Voyage of the Dawn Treader Director: Joseph Kosinski
Stars: Jeff Bridges, John Hurt, Olivia Wilde,
Director: Michael Apted
Stars: Ben Barnes, Georgie Henley, William Moseley,
Will Poulter, Anna Popplewell
Studio: 20th Century Fox. Releasing: December 10, 2010
Anyone who has ever read
CS Lewis’ superb fantasy work,
The Chronicles of Narnia, won’t
need any encouragement to make
a trip to the movies to see the
latest offering from the parallel
world of Narnia. In this screen
adaptation of the third book in
the series, Lucy, Edmund and
cousin Eustace are dragged into
Narnia through a painting of
a ship on a sea, where they
find themselves on board the
Dawn Treader. Adventure
awaits them, one that will
pit them against terrifying
foes and force them to
confront their own
weaknesses.
Beau Garrett, Bruce Boxleitner, Garrett Hedlund
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Releasing: December 17, 2010
Video games will never be the same! Anyone remember
the original virtual reality movie, Tron, the 1982 sci-fi
hacker movie set inside the virtual world of cyberspace?
Well, this is the long-awaited sequel, where Sam Flynn
(Hedlund), the computer geek son of Kevin Flynn
(Bridges), goes looking for his father (who went missing
in Tron) and enters the same virtual world of sentient
software and savage gladiatorial games. His father has
been living here for 25 years and father and son get set
for a life-and-death mission across cyberspace. Fantastic
CGI lends the movie an incredibly real feel and might
leave viewers
wondering what
exactly is going
on inside their
computer when
they play a video
game!
A TRUE-LIFE NOVEL
BY JEANETTE WALLS
From the best-selling author of The Glass Castle comes another
superbly written, beautifully poignant tale of childhood. Walls’ at
time disturbing, at times hilarious childhood gave an insight into
the family mindsets of yesteryear rural America. Her latest novel is
a re-creation of her larger-than-life grandmother, Lily Casey Smith.
Smith was a mustang breaker, schoolteacher, bootlegger, rancher and
bush pilot in Texas and Arizona who lost everything she had in the
Great Depression. Walls is one of those authors whom, whenever
I see her name on the bookshelves, I buy the book regardless, and
this is another treat from the mistress of childhood memories.
Juliet, Naked
A NOVEL
BY NICK HORNBY
Another rip-snorting read from the man who brought us the classic
hits, High Fidelity and About a Boy. His latest creation, along
the lines of High Fidelity, is a witty and gentle look at precocious
kids and sensible women set in a world of passion for music. The
hero, Duncan, is obsessed with rock musician Tucker Crowe,
who vanished from the public eye years ago. Duncan’s girlfriend,
Annie, gets fed up with his obsession and plays a joke on him,
posting a message on his Crowe fans website. Her message attracts
the attention of the long-lost rocker and and the stage is set for
unexpected twist and turns.

Books Too Big To Fail

INVESTIGATIVE EXPOSé
BY ANDREW ROSS SORKIN
As the book’s title page states, this is the inside story of how

The Little Fockers
Director: Paul Weitz
Stars: Robert de Niro, Ben Stiller, Teri Polo, Blythe Danner,
Dustin Hoffman, Barbra Streisand, Owen Wilson
Studio: Universal Pictures
Releasing: December 22, 2010
The third in the hilarious Meet the Parents series. On the occasion of their
twins’ birthday party, Pam (Polo) and Greg (Stiller) a battle of wills ensues
as Greg tries to prove to the ever dubious Jack (De Niro) that he is man
enough to look after his daughter and raise his grandchildren. Will Greg
stay in Jack’s “circle of trust” and go onto become the main man of the house?
Only time, and a whole load of misunderstandings, covert spy missions and
cringe-worthy accidents, will tell!
Wall Street and Washington fought to save the financial system,
and themselves. The book is a look at what the recent financial
turmoil and market collapses mean for the future of capitalism as
we know it. New York Times financial reporter Sorkin provides a
blow-by-blow account of the events leading up to the crash of five
massive investment companies, and the subsequent restructuring
that saw them sold off or converted. Sorkin focuses on the collapse of
America’s fourth largest investment bank, Lehman Brothers, which
the US government decided not to bail out in 2008. The collapse
left Wall Steer teetering on the edge of ruin - trillions of dollars had
vanished and the public’s concept of capitalism would forever be
changed. Or would it? This is a convincing analysis of low-risk profits
and American-style financial engineering.
38 Art Exhibition
Tate’s
Masterpieces for
40th National Day celebrations
An exhibition of masterpieces from Tate’s historic British collection,
The Art of Seeing Nature: Masterpieces from Tate Britain will be
presented at the Sayyid Faisal bin Ali Museum in Muscat, Oman,
from 30 November 2010 until 25 January 2011. The exhibition has
been organised as a pioneering collaboration between the Ministry of
Heritage and Culture, Oman, and Tate. It is a British contribution to
the 40th National Day of the Sultanate of Oman.
The exhibition shows six masterpieces by six great artists born or
working in Britain. This is the first time that these works have been
shown in the Middle East. The pictures are:
Thomas Gainsborough’s Sunset: Carthorses Drinking at a Stream
(circa 1760); George Stubbs’ Mares and Foals in a River Landscape
(1763-8); John Constable’s The Grove, Hampstead (1821-2);
Joseph Mallord William Turner’s The Golden Bough (1834);
Sir John Everett Millais’ Dew-Drenched Furze (1889-90);
John Singer Sargent’s The Mountains of Moab (1905).
Selected for their outstanding quality, the works represent highlights
of Tate’s unrivalled collection of historic British art, and of the
development of painting in Britain as it depicted landscape and the
natural world.
Gainsborough’s rustic woodland is a lyrical work of the imagination,
based on memories of his childhood, his rides in the countryside
and the example of earlier Dutch painting. Turner’s sunlit vision of
Italy is also historically inspired, by classical myth and history. In
the work of Constable at Hampstead, Millais on a sporting estate in
John Singer Sargent: The Mountains of Moab (1905).
Art Exhibition 39
Scotland and Sargent in the Middle East
we see the emergence of naturalism, in
which landscape and scenery are observed
on the spot. Stubbs’ portraiture of horses,
as sensitively and expressively observed as if
they were human, was no less rigorous and
based on anatomical study and dissection.
His horses are evidently of Arab blood, and
are specimens perhaps of the bloodstock
exported to England from the region during
the 18th century. Sir John Everett Millais: Dew-Drenched Furze (1889-90) Thomas Gainsborough: Sunset: Carthorses Drinking at a Stream (circa 1760)
The exhibition will be accompanied by a
bilingual publication, and a film exploring
Photographs copyrighted Tate, London 2010. All Rights Reserved.
themes in the paintings with contributions
from a number of people including Ali
bin Abdullah al-Habsi, the renowned
goalkeeper of the Omani national football
team, who knows the British and the Omani
landscape. There will also be an outreach
programme including school visits and
expert lectures and activities for young
children in the exhibition. This is the first
project in a long-term relationship between
Tate and the Ministry of Heritage and
Culture in Oman.
George Stubbs: Mares and Foals in a River Landscape (1763-8)
Joseph Mallord William Turner: The Golden Bough (1834) John Constable: The Grove, Hampstead (1821-2)
40 Kids Corner Kids Corner 41

All of the clocks in the movie

Pulp Fiction are stuck on 4:20

Tigers
have
In Tokyo, a bicycle is faster striped
than a car for most trips of skin, not
less than 50 minutes! just striped
fur.

Did you know?

What women What men
really mean when really mean
they say: when they
You have to learn to communicate. say:
Just agree with me.
I’ll be ready in a minute. What’s wrong? I don’t see
Kick off your shoes and find a good why you are making such
game on TV. a big deal out of this.
I’m not upset. Of course I’m upset,
Yes, I like the way you cut
you moron!
your hair. I liked it much
better before.
(While shopping) I like
that one better. Pick any
dress already, and let’s go
home!

Rain contains the

vitamin
vitamin B12.
B12
42 Culture & Heritage Tourism & Entertainment 43
Wadi Tiwi Museums Nizwa Fort Museum
This stunning wadi lies in Niyabat Tiwi, To make your cultural journey complete, a
Wilayat of Sur, about 76km from Qurayyat visit to at least one of the dozen museums
on the Qurayyat-Sur highway. One of the in Oman is recommended. The Natural
most picturesque wadis in the Sultanate, History Museum features Oman’s flora and
it is well worth taking a drive or a stroll fauna, including some of the indigenous
species. To get a glimpse of Oman’s military
along the bottom of the steep gorge, along
history, visit the Armed Forces Museum.
the stream, which rises in the mountains
The National Museum showcases a rare
above you. The route extends 36km inland
collection of the history of the ruling
and ends at a mountain village known
dynasty. The archaeological lineage of
as Mibam. As you start to climb up into the country can be found in the Omani
the hills, you are surrounded by peaceful Museum. There is an exclusive museum
orchards and it is possible to catch glimpses for children, the Children’s Museum, that
of the sea. Look out for resident bird life, is educative as well as entertaining. Bait Al
including the kingfishers! Zubair and Bait Al Baranda are examples of

Wonderful wadis
how Oman’s history has been captured in a
capsule for those who are not familiar with
it. For a complete listing of Oman’s various
museums, please refer to the local dailies.

Off-road enthusiasts should make time to visit one of Oman’s truly spectacular wadis, which are Hotels
dried-up or watered riverbeds often found in mountain valleys, especially after the rains Oman has a wide variety of staying options
catering to any and all types of visitors. From
plush five-star beach-facing resorts and spas for
Wadi Dhaiqah the more upmarket visitors, to the four-star, three-
This challenging wadi lies in a deep valley about 90km star, hotel apartments, camps, guest houses, and
east of the Bait Hattat roundabout in Muscat. It is youth hostels, everyone’s wallet is catered for.
part of a collection of wadis which congregate in the Desert and mountain camps are particularly
valley, effectively creating massive natural gardens. interesting experiences if you have not had the
Shortly after entering the wadi you will come across opportunity to enjoy them before. While in
Muscat, you will be spoilt for choices, and when
large rocks and deep pools, and after that come the
you head towards the interior you will experience
fruit farms of Al Mazarea. In some places, the cliff
true rustic charm and old-world elegance. Either
walls close in and form beautiful walls surrounding
way, you will get to experience the essence of true
your journey. This wadi is usually well-watered and is
Omani hospitality wherever you stay.
always a rewarding experience for nature lovers. Golden Tulip Seeb
Nizwa Souq
Shopping
When it comes to shopping, Oman is full of choices both

Wadi Al Sahaten traditional and modern. If you are looking for some of the
world’s best brands, you could head to the nearest mega-
Numerous guided tours pass through here,
malls, shopping complexes or hypermarkets. You can find
making it one of the most popular wadis in these outlets all across the capital city, as well as in the
Sultanate. It is located in Wilayat Al-Rustaq larger cities like Nizwa, Sohar, Sur and Salalah.
and it extends to Jabal Shams. The wadi is a If traditional shopping is your interest, then you must visit
gathering place for other wadis that descend the Muttrah Souq beside the Muttrah Corniche area.
from the Jabal Shams mountains. There are There are also some very old and famous souqs in Nizwa,
some villages around it such as Al-Khadra, Sinaw, Ibra and Salalah. For tourists, these souqs are a
Al-Tibaqa and Al-Towyan. Parts of the wadi paradise for souvenir hunting! Frankincense, perfumes,
are inaccessible, except to the most intrepid spices, dates and antiques jostle for space with electronic
explorer. It leads to Wadi Bani Awof and products, fashion accessories and toys. For a complete
Jabal Shams. Oman experience, have a go at both the old and the new!
44 Get Familiar Get Familiar 45

Travel
Whenever you travel overseas, it is often useful
to understand the local laws and customs in the

Oman
destination country, as they can often be very
different to your own.
To avoid any mix up or confusion with local laws
and customs we have provided some travellers tips to

tips
assist you in having an enjoyable visit to the Sultanate.
Please be advised that the information contained
on this page is not fully comprehensive and
may be liable to change without prior warning.
Consult a travel expert or your local embassy

at a glance prior to departing on your journey.

Oman’s laws are based on Sharia law, also known
as the Islamic Law.
• Heavy rainfall can cause sudden and severe flooding to dry riverbeds,
which may pass over a road. You are advised to take full precautions when
• In Oman, it is illegal not to have some form of
driving during rains.
The Sultanate of Oman is the third largest country located in the southeast official ID on you at any given time. Therefore, it is
• Local Sharia laws reflect the fact that Oman is a Muslim country. You
coast of the Arabian peninsula. The Sultanate is bordered by the Kingdom of recommended that you carry either your passport,
should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion at all times and
Saudi Arabia in the west, the United Arab Emirates in the northeast, the or a photocopy of, or some other valid identification
be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures
card. Other forms of ID such as overseas driver’s
Republic of Yemen in the southwest, the Strait of Hormuz in the north and the or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, or if you
license or overseas ID cards will not be accepted.
Arabian Sea in the east. intend to visit religious areas.
• Visitors holding valid UK, Australian, and
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
American and certain other nation’s driving
licenses (check with the embassy if your country’s Basic Arabic Phrases
borders of the Republic of Yemen in the south. license is valid) can currently obtain an Omani Yes : naäam
Oman’s coast spans the three seas : the Arabian Gulf, the Sea of Oman and license without taking a driving test. No : laa
• Vehicles are driven on the right side of the road. Please : arjook
the Arabian Sea. A number of islands also are part of Oman including the
• In Oman if you are involved in a car accident Thank you : shukran
famous islands of Masirah and Halaniyat (Kuria Muria). The country’s You’re welcome : äafwan
and there is damage done to either party or
northern most part, the Musandam peninsula is Oman’s only coast on the their vehicles or any public property like road Excuse me : lao samaht
Arabian Gulf and it is located across the strategic Strait of Hormuz. I am sorry : ana aasif
signs, you must wait at the scene and contact the
Good morning : sabaah al khayr
Royal Oman Police (9999) and wait for further
Good evening : masaa’ al khayr
Fact Sheet instructions. Leaving the scene can result in Good night : tusbih äalaa khayr
Area : 309 500km2. heavy fines and possible imprisonment.
Population (2005) : 2 509 000 including 666 000 expatriates.
Language : Arabic (official), English (widely spoken),
German & French (most hotel staff ).
Capital : Muscat.
Local Time : GMT +4.
Currency : Omani Rial, which equates to US$ 2.58.
Shopping Hours : 09:00 - 13:00 then 16:30 - 24:00
Currency
The local currency is the Omani Rial (referred to as RO or OR or OMR).
It is further divided into 1000 Baizas. Currency denominations are
available in 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 Rial and 500 and 100 Baiza notes.
Coins are available in 50, 25, 10 and 5 Baizas.
Religion
Islam is the official religion of the Sultanate of Oman.
Image source: Image source:
Yousuf Al Zadjali Fahad Al Zadjali
46 Oman Air News

Oman Air

Official carrier
of Galliera
200 years of French
wedding dresses
Oman Air recently carried a surprising
cargo and unexpected passengers from
Paris: a 27 000-year-old necklace, an
1813 bridal travel kit made of glass and
gold, a 1881 doll taking its first plane
journey, and many
haute couture
wedding dresses.

The 200 years of French wedding dresses exhibition is a contribution by

the French Embassy in order to commemorate the 40th anniversary of
the reign of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. The French Embassy
and Galliera, the City of Paris Fashion Museum, presented under the
patronage of His Highness Sayyed Haytham Al Said, Minister of
Heritage and Culture, an exhibition organised by the French Embassy in
Oman and Paris-Musées, in collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage
and Culture. The event is at the Omani French Museum, Bait Faransa,
from 10th November 2010 until 16th December 2010.
Great names in the history of haute couture from Paris since the 1920s
have come to Muscat: a display of dresses by Paul Poiret, Marcel Rochas,
Jacques Fath, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Guy Laroche,
Paco Rabanne, Chanel, John Galliano, Maurizio Galante, Karl Lagerfeld
and Jean Paul Gaultier.
Visitors to the exhibition will experience remarkable wedding dresses
made of precious textiles that speak of a refined elegance in keeping
with the latest fashion of their time. Since the 1970s, French wedding
dress designs have been independent to mainstream fashion, but have
not forsaken the traditional elements that make bridal wear synonymous
with the wedding.
48 Oman Air News

Muscat Beach Games

signs on Oman Air
Oman Air to fly Asian sporting delegations from across the continent to participate
in the second Asian Beach Games Muscat 2010, as official airline
Oman Air has partnered
with the Muscat Asian
Beach Games Organising
Committee (MABGOC)
and the Olympic Council
of Asia (OCA) to bring
sporting delegations to
the Sultanate of Oman
and promote the Games
through its extensive
network. As the official
airline partner, Oman Air
will fly athletes, officials,
media and volunteers from
44 countries across 30
destinations to Muscat,
giving them the opportunity
to experience the airline’s
unparallelled service prior
to taking part in the Games
– a celebration of sport and system, harnessing the genuine Games spirit and celebrating
culture from 8 -16 December 2010. sportsmanship, unity and cooperation.
In efforts to share the excitement of the Under the slogan, ‘Together We Shine’, the second Asian Beach Games
highly anticipated Games, Oman Air will be Muscat 2010 is one of the major sporting events under the Olympic Council
branding a number of Airbus aircrafts with the of Asia’s umbrella. Taking place for nine days this December at venues in
Games logo, and will screen the Muscat 2010 Muscat, as well as at the one million square metre Al-Musannah Sports City,
promotion video on the inflight entertainment the Games will welcome competition in 14 beach sports.

1st high-tech anniversary at

World Travel Market
Oman Air celebrated at this year’s World Travel Market (WTM), as it
marked the first anniversary of the launch of its fleet of Airbus A330
aircraft. The airline also marked the success of the first six months of its
pioneering inflight mobile phone and Wi-Fi connectivity package.
With a huge, brand new exhibition stand, featuring the airline’s extra-long,
lie-flat business class seat, and Omani racing driver Ahmad Al Harthy’s
Oman Air-branded Porsche Carrera, the national carrier of the Sultanate
of Oman made a powerful impression at the
world’s leading travel trade show.
Oman Air’s new stand was a great focus for agents
and operators who wanted to find out more about
how they could work together with Oman Air to
offer the very best in air travel and build on the
remarkable success of the last 12 months.