'I love visiting India' Performer Ann Sholem of the National Dance Company of Wales talks about her first performance in India

'I love visiting India'

Performer Ann Sholem of the National Dance Company of Wales talks about her first performance in India


How did you happen to plan this tour?
We planned the tour as an exchange programme with Stem Dance Company in Bengaluru. They are coming to perform in Wales in May next year. The exchange program has been made possible by support from the Welsh Government, British Council and Wales Arts International.

Is this your first performance here?
It's our first trip to India and as a part of it, we performed in Chennai, Bengaluru and Delhi.

Considering it's your first performance-based trip, what impression do you hold of India?
I have been very familiar with Indian music and Indian dance forms because I have been to India many times before. I especially like seeing the new contemporary India with fresh ideas and the wonderful energy that's coming out of the country. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing stem dance perform in Bengaluru as well as hoping to see as many other dance performances as possible while we are in India.

What, apart from the multi-city performance, fascinated you the most?
The great Indian food! I was really looking forward to it. I wanted to meet many people in India and of course performing to a new audience for the first time was a major thrill. I somehow feel that these cultural exchanges always stimulate new thinking and exciting new artistic collaborations.

What performances did you deliver here?
A great doublebill of new dance from two internationally famous contemporary dance choreographers. We have 11 great dancers in a wonderful passionate show. It's sharp edgy and beautifully performed.

Would you be keen on doing more shows in India or collaborating with Indian artists?
I love visiting India, so the chance to perform there again in the future with more new work would be fantastic. And yes, it would be wonderful to do more exchange programs with contemporary Indian artists in music dance and visual art.

New York diaries Actor Ali Zafar, who was in New York recently, can't stop gushing about the place as he talks about his favourite spots in the city

New York diaries

Actor Ali Zafar, who was in New York recently, can't stop gushing about the place as he talks about his favourite spots in the city



Actor Ali Zafar has been to New York a couple of times, but every time before he leaves the place, he already begins planning his next trip to the city. The actor, who was there to shoot for a film a couple of months back, says New York is one of his favourite destinations in the world. He says, "New York is one of those places I can keep visiting again and again. It is not my first visit to the city, but each time I come here, the place surprises me. This time we were shooting at the Hudson River bridge and incidentally at the same time, the Batman crew was also there shooting for their next film. Hudson River is a beautiful location and we were shooting there for a week, but the rest of the time I was pretty much running all around the place." Ali says the best thing about New York is the vibe and the energy of the place. This time he was in the city during the Halloween weekend, when the entire place is buzzing. "The last time too I was in New York, it was the Halloween weekend. Halloween is that time of the year when everyone dresses up and parties. I missed the parade and couldn't get to party. But the last time around, I witnessed the parade, dressed up and went partying all night," he says. He also recommends that the best time to visit New York would be sometime in July and August. His favourite place in the city is obviously The Times Square. "If anyone has a day to spend in New York, I suggest they have lunch at Tribbiani's, head out to the city later and then spend the evening at Times Square. If one has some more time, a Broadway play is the best way to unwind," he says. Ask him what the best thing about New York is and he quips it's the freedom to walk around and just be at ease. "The place has a vibe similar to that of Mumbai. The people, the culture and the energy... everything is lovely. I am that kind of a person who loves to soak up on the city and explore the place on foot. So any place where I get to walk endlessly is the best bet. In New York, I can do that; I can be myself for hours together. I love that feeling. Also, New York is very special to me because I got all the equipment for my music studio from the New York Guitar Centre. And music in an intrinsic part of my life. So the city too holds special importance."

Top 10 Things to Do in Malaysia

Malaysia is a modern nation of amazing ecological beauty and a rich mix of Malay, Indian, Chinese, Arabic, European, Peranakan and other cultures

You can eat and drink your way through Malaysia. From stalls alongside the streets to food markets, from large-scale food courts within shopping malls to gourmet restaurants, its choice of gastronomic offerings is legendary.
Most importantly, Malaysia has world renowned attractions that make a trip here immeasurably rewarding. Here's a list of top things to do in Malaysia.

1. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur
The 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, standing at 452 metres, are the world's tallest twin structures. Inspired by Islamic architecture, the gleaming mega-towers are joined at the 41st and 42nd floors by a 58-metre long double-decker Sky Bridge that offers spectacular views of Kuala Lumpur.

2. Melaka Historic City, Malacca
The historical city of Melaka is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a thriving port city, Melaka today is a hotchpotch of Malay, Chinese, Indian, European and sundry influences. Boasting a great blend of historic attractions - from the salmon-pink Stadhuys to the Jonker Walk Night Market - Melaka is also home to the famed Nyonya cuisine.
3. Georgetown Historic City, Penang
Georgetown, Penang's capital on the north-eastern corner of the island, is dotted with idiosyncratic Chinese shops, narrow roads, colonial-era mansions, ornate temples and Little India districts. A fascinating fusion of eastern and western influences, the island manages to embrace modernity while retaining its colonial traditions. Its well-preserved heritage buildings are instrumental in Georgetown's UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site status.

4. Sarawak, Borneo
Sarawak, Land of the Hornbill, is located on the north-western shore of Borneo. Experience its colourful ethnic diversity and fascinating array of attractions - from breathtaking beaches to fascinating rainforests, from adrenaline-pumping adventure sports to museums filled with Malaysian wonders. Explore its historic capital Kuching on a walk along its beautiful waterfront.

5. Menara KL Tower, Kuala Lumpur
Along with the Petronas Twin Towers, the Menara KL Tower is easily Malaysia's most recognizable and popular landmark. The tower stands at 421 metres while its viewing deck at 276 metres, is at least 100 metres higher than the Petronas Twin Towers' Skybridge, and offers great views during the day and sparkling views of the city centre at night.

Christ Church in the main square in Melaka

6. Langkawi Cable Car, Pantai Kok - Langkawi
The Oriental Village in the upper northwest of Langkawi Island, near Pantai Kok, is the entrance for the cable-car ride, which takes you all the way up to Mount Mat Cincang, Langkawi's second highest peak. Feel the temperature drop and the breeze blow as the cable-car ascends over the rainforest and the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls. Take in the fabulous views of the rainforests and the surroundings hills from the top of the peak.

7. Penang Hill, Penang
Penang Hill or Bukit Bendera rises 821 metres above sea level and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island. With the right dose of history and nippy climate, Penang plays host to a variety of attractions ranging from beaches to historical architecture, from cultural hotspots to cuisine. The Penang Hill Railway's Swiss-built funicular that dates back to 1897 is a beautiful way to ascend the hill.

8. Kinabalu National Park, Sabah - Borneo
The Kinabalu National Park, located in northwest Sabah, is Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to the 4095-metre Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest peak, it has one of the world's largest collections of flora and fauna.

9. Cameron Highlands, Pahang State
Take respite from Malaysia's humid cities and soak up the magnificent views from the mountain resorts of Cameron Highlands, a salubrious hill station located along the Pahang borders. At almost 2,000 meters above sea level, Camerons offers daytime temperatures of around 25°C and 18°C at night with beautiful surrounds.

10. Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Petaling Jaya
Spanning an area over 80 acres, Malaysia's premier theme park in Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, has thrills and spills to offer people of all ages! Divided into three sections; the Wild Wild West, World of Adventure and Waters of Africa, a day out in Sunway Lagoon is a fun-filled encounter to remember!

Come and visit magical Malaysia.

Picture perfect Singapore! ...Is what actor Tejaswini Kolhapure experienced on her recent trip to the island state

Picture perfect Singapore!

...Is what actor Tejaswini Kolhapure experienced on her recent trip to the island state



A vibrant, multi-cultural, and cosmopolitan island-state, Singapore expresses the essence of today's New Asia. In Singapore, each surrounding area has its own distinct flavour, from the aromatic spice stores of Little India to the tumbledown backstreets of Chinatown or the Arab Quarter, whose cluttered stores sell fine clothes and silks.
Though Singapore is known as the best business destination in the world, actor Tejaswini Kolhapure's trip to this place was for a wedding. "It was a two-in-one trip for me. I had a wedding to attend and I also got to meet one of my closest college friends who live there," says Tejaswini. But what struck the actor the most was the cleanliness. "When I landed I couldn't miss how clean Singapore was — it was like a picture postcard. Secretly, I wished for our Mumbai to be this clean some day." Tejaswini was also glad to get some respite from the Mumbai traffic, "Singapore, I felt, is not a very big city because getting from point A to point B didn't take more than 30 minutes, considering the travel we do in Mumbai. Also when the roads are great, drives are better as well," she adds.
Besides the beautiful sights, and skyscrapers there are great shopping centres in Singapore. Also, it has a buzzing nightlife. "Shopping, particularly for electronics is a must here. I managed to buy things like shoes from my favourite brands and a laptop for my husband. Orchard Street is the most happening place in terms of shopping and night scene. I also got souvenirs for my niece and nephews." Describing the food scene in Singapore, Tejaswini says, "People here are very polite and sweet and the food was to die for. I went to this popular joint called Jumbo where I had the Singaporean chilly crab. It was a bit too sweet though. Next time, I shall have the black pepper one."
Though the actor was disappointed in missing out on Sentosa Island, she lists out three must-do things when in Singapore. "You have to eat at the Jumbo restaurant. Also you must go on this street called Clarkys, which is full of clubs and restaurants by the river. Thirdly, shopping at Orchard Street." Finally Tejaswini brands Singapore to be an impressive package of food, fashion and fun! "It was a wonderful trip. Singapore is not very big but it's very clean and everything there is in order. Also, it's so green, with a fabulous shopping scene and excellent food," Tejaswini ends.

Viva la Espana! Spanish events are dotting Mumbai's cultural landscape, as we get to see the city hosting a number of events celebrating Spanish ethos

Viva la Espana!

Spanish events are dotting Mumbai's cultural landscape, as we get to see the city hosting a number of events celebrating Spanish ethos

It seems that the recession has hit Europe pretty badly, as Spain now seems to have descended on Mumbai, with the city hosting a number of events celebrating the rich Hispanic culture and tradition. Be it Spanish, Mexican or Latin American — Mumbaikars seem to slurp up anything that is interesting and have a Spanish touch.
It all started with Zoya Akhtar's on the road drama Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, which was extensively shot in various cities around Spain. In spite of getting mixed reviews, the film made people enthralled by the beauty and culture of Spain. Just after the movie the La Tomatino festival was organised, which also featured in the movie. The festival was first of its kind held in Mumbai. People got to squash, stomp and throw tomatoes on everyone around them without a care in the world. Recently, there also took place Latino Night at Canvas, where people got to sway to the magical beats of the Latin music (Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Zouk, Kizomba, Reggaeton etc.) It was a brilliant night with people dancing to the tunes of sensuous Salsa.
Then for all the food lovers out there, the Festival of Spain in celebration of the European country's National Day was organised. The Consulate of Spain in association with Mediterranean restaurant Amadeus, dished out some Spanish treats, in the presence of some energetic flamenco dancing. Farrokh Khambata of Amadeus said, "This Spanish festivals are an attempt to offer Mumbaikars an insight into Spanish food and lifestyle."
Keeping up with the food culture, is an exciting new initiative by Svenska Design Hotels, who announced the launch of a series of cooking classes on Spanish-Mediterranean cuisine by professional chefs of Miro, who have been taught by Michelin-star chefs from Europe. Finally, the Wedding Cafe; and Lounge also organised a week long Mexican Food festival, bringing in a refreshing combination of Mexican food and margheritas!

Surfing through Sufism The upcoming annual Sufi festival, Ruhaniyat, promises to bring seldom heard folk tunes from remote corners of the world to the city

Surfing through Sufism


The upcoming annual Sufi festival, Ruhaniyat, promises to bring seldom heard folk tunes from remote corners of the world to the city



Gear up for some soulful music as the eleventh edition of Ruhaniyat — one of the biggest Sufi music festival in Asia — comes to the city. Known to bring on the stage the remote and rural tunes, the two-day long festival is truly a celebration of the folk artists — the actual practitioners of mystic traditions who express complex and deep thoughts in the most enchanting manner.
Says founder, organiser Nandini Mahesh, "For us 2011 is very special as now Ruhaniyat has entered the second decade. It has been a long journey and a very demanding one, with the festival travelling to seven cities of India. But, it has also been a deeply satisfying one too and, it is far from complete. There are so many forms which are amazingly powerful, orally passed down from generation to generation across centuries, hidden in various parts of our country. The carriers of these living traditions create an absolutely enchanting tapestry of music."

This time around, the Mumbai version of the festival will feature some unique and unheard of forms of rural rhythms. "We are forms like Devaram hymns by Nayanmars from Tamil Nadu; these are ancient hymns that date back to seventh century. Another highlight is Waee from Kutch, a one of its kind stylised rendition of Shah Latif's works. Mystic Shabads, Kabirbani and Zikr are the other brilliant forms that will be featured this year," explains Nandini. And that's not all. Also performing at the event will be guest artists Whirling Dervishes from Turkey. Another highlight is the first ever performance of Polyphony, which will be presented on both the days. The festival that opens at the historic Purana Qila in Delhi, will be held in Mumbai on the weekend, and will then travel to Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai and Pune.

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE MUSCAT OMAN Home of Cultural Radiance

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE MUSCAT OMAN Home of Cultural Radiance

Established by Royal Decree, the Royal Opera House Muscat was officially inaugurated on October 14, 2011, amid much excitement and fanfare. A recital of Puccini's masterpiece, 'Turandot', was the highlight of the inaguration. The Opera House is an influential arts and culture platform that enhances Oman's international reputation and reinforces its niche offerings. The organisation serves as a laboratory for creativity and intellectual exchanges; and its high-tech venue pays tribute to and presents diverse artistic and cultural expressions from the Sultanate, the region, and the world.
A towering beacon shedding light on the various trends of the Renaissance march towards growth, Royal Opera House Muscat is an illustration of the undivided attention that His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has devoted to the cultural sector since the new dawn of the Sultanate. He has repeatedly asserted that the human being is not only the ultimate goal of any development process, but also its instrument and means. Therefore, sustained investment in educational and cultural infrastructures to promote the wellbeing of the Omani citizens, while strengthening the pillars of the modern State, is a high priority on the list of noble goals that Sultan Qaboos seeks to achieve.
From this perspective and in order to promote the Sultanate's cultural heritage and artistic engagement, Royal Directives were issued to develop a set of structures to broaden people's participation in cultural life. Royal Opera House Muscat has emerged as the leading open house for arts and culture in the country. It was initially conceived in 2001 as the house for musical arts and its development over a decade underwent several changes reflecting the modernist vision of Sultan Qaboos and other requirements that enabled the Royal Court Affairs, with the assistance of various technical experts, to build what is now viewed as a milestone in the evolution of an Omani architectural style.
The newly completed building is a fusion of Omani tradition and modernity. The construction of this iconic and majestic Royal Opera House Muscat building with stunning handmade ornaments, including the sophistication of its rich interior, is in many ways an embodiment of such complexity and multiplicity of references witnessed in Omani architecture.
Sultan Qaboos, on the occasion of the opening, said: "Oman, throughout its long history has played prominent roles in various cultural fields and the time has come now to cap that rich march by means of adopting concepts of international culture and by effective contribution to its promotion. Towards that end, we have established the Royal Opera House Muscat as a centre of cultural radiance for the Omani people and all humanity."
"We have sought in all world forum to foster the constructive role of Oman in the dialogue among civilisations and in enriching cultural exchange and strengthening bonds of permanent friendship and cooperation. We are sure that the Royal Opera House Muscat will play a significant role in disseminating world heritage and reinforcing the principles of peace, coexistence and understanding among all nations and peoples through art events that express a common human cultural heritage of strong meaning and deep impact," he added.

OMAN AIR Your Home In The Air

OMAN AIR Your Home In The Air

Oman Air, the designated carrier of the Sultanate of Oman is a business enterprise committed to the basic objective of providing safe, reliable and profitable air transport services for passengers and cargo as well as other aviation related services. Since starting off as a regional player in 1983, it has witnessed rapid growth, and has played its part in making Muscat a major traffic hub in the Middle East providing a fillip to commercial, industrial and tourism activities.
Oman Air currently operates direct international flights to major Gulf destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Al-Ain, Jeddah, Dammam, Kuwait and Riyadh from Muscat. It also flies to various European destinations including London, Zurich, Frankfurt, Munich, Milan and Paris. The airline also flies to ten destinations in India - Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, Delhi, Lucknow, Bangalore, Kozhikode and Jaipur.

Jabal Akhdar - Oman's Breathtaking Green Mountain

Jabal Akhdar - Oman's Breathtaking Green Mountain

A drive through Muscat's captivating Hajjar mountain range leaves Mala Biswas revitalised and longing for more…



A two hour drive, southwest from Muscat, through the ancient and captivating Hajjar mountain range, leaves one soaked in nature's bounty. Jabal Akhdar looms ahead rising to more than 3,000 metres above sea level. Famous for its wide plateau close to the summit, it is located in the Dakhiliyah Region of Oman. Near the summit is a wide plateau from which you can peer into Wadi Ghul, Oman's Grand Canyon. A sheer drop of over a kilometre, with dramatically contorted vertical rock faces simply takes the breath away.
Jabal Akhdar, meaning Green Mountain, refers to the northern section of the Hajjar mountains. As you take the road out of Muscat, you reach a quaint town of Izki and then you start to climb past ancient villages steeply terraced into the mountainside. These mountains are home to isolated villages whose people live amongst the rocky peaks. These peaks provide the traveller with opportunities for walking, trekking, wildlife spotting, canyoning, exploration by 4 wheel drive and an opportunity to meet local people unchanged by the tourism found elsewhere in the Middle East.
Jabal Akhdar is known for its Mediterranean climate. Temperatures drop during winter to below zero Celsius, with snow falling at times, and rise in summer to 22 degrees Celsius. Due to its location and unique weather, the Green Mountain produces a variety of fruits, such as apricots, plums, figs, grapes, apples and pears, as well as almonds, walnuts and saffron. The pomegranate that grows here are wonderfully sweet and juicy and is among the finest of its kind in the world. So are the pink roses which are harvested for their perfume. My driver cum guide from Bahwan Travels was indeed extremely knowledgeable about the tiny little hamlet we visited and spoke with an elderly villager who had beautiful pomegranate farms. This is where villagers live in harmony with nature.
Irrigating by means of the unique Falaj water-channel system amongst others, they manage to produce such a wide variety of fruits. These villages and their terraced fields along with the numerous forts and lowland villages are one of the wonders of the region and a visit is a must for any visitor to Oman. I came away fascinated by Jabal Akhdar - indeed a charming part of Oman that beckons the evolved traveller.

BAHWAN TRAVEL CONSORTIUM One–Stop Shop For All Your Travel Requirements

The Bahwan Travel Consortium is probably the largest integrated travel and tourism combine in Oman performing the business on an end to end basis. Commencing their activities some forty years ago, coinciding with the start of the Blessed Renaissance, under the wise leadership of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the consortium is today the acknowledged market leader of the Travel Industry in Oman.
Participating in the four verticals of Airline Ticketing and Reservations, SIXT Rent-a-Car, Outbound Holidays and Inbound Tourism, The Bahwan Travel Consortium has brought to their many customers very high levels of service together with an array of products that mean value for money. Partnering blue chip entities like Air France/KLM, Kingfisher Airlines, Thai, Cathay, Thomas Cook, GlobusandCosmos, Silversea Cruises, Chiva Som, to name a few, the Consortium is a one stop shop for all things nice in travel and tourism.
Keeping the long term perspective in mind, Bahwan Travels has come together with the National Carrier, Oman Air in two path breaking initiatives. Firstly, Bahwan Travels has been appointed the General Sales Agent of Oman Air in Khasab, Musandam with the office to commence commercial operations very soon. The Wilayat of Musandam in the north of the Sultanate is strategically located and very pretty with a network of blue lagoons and rising mountains as a relief in a rugged terrain. Earmarked by the Oman Government for significant economic development, Khasab will eventually boast of a great infrastructure and fuel both touristic and business traffic.
Secondly, Bahwan Travels has announced a Joint Venture with Oman Air which will promote inbound tourism to Oman and Outbound Holidays to destinations served by the national carrier's network. The new Company to be known as Oman Air Holidays(In Partnership with Bahwan Travels) is the Sultanate's first Public/Private Partnership and will result in the largest travel and tourism business of the land.
Speaking at the recent Press Conference, Shankar Bose, General Manager, Bahwan Travel Consortium, said that the Joint Venture will bring together Oman Air's unparalleled quality and global reach with Bahwan Tours and Bahwan Holidays extensive expertise and experience of the travel industry. The company will reach out to every corner of the land, and to customers around the world, to deliver a great range of holidays within Oman and across Oman Air's network of exciting destinations. In doing so, it will play a key part in building capacity of the Sultanate's tourism sector and positioning it at the highest international levels.

BANKMUSCAT Uniquely Positioned to Support Trade & Investment

BANKMUSCAT Uniquely Positioned to Support Trade & Investment

Having scripted a success story viewed as a reference point by the banking industry, BankMuscat is today a towering presence not only in the banking sector but in all arenas of the Sultanate of Oman…

BankMuscat is the leading bank in the Sultanate of Oman, and enjoys the largest 39 per cent market share in Oman, with over US$16 billion of assets, capital of over US$2 billion and a customer base of over 1.3 million. It is listed in Muscat and London Stock Exchanges and rated A1 by Moodys and BBB+ by Standard & Poor's. The bank has an extensive network of 130 branches in Oman, as well as direct and indirect presence in all six GCC states besides a Representative Office in Singapore which focuses on Financial Institutions and trade business, supporting GCC-Asia trade. BankMuscat provides Corporate,Retail, Investment Banking and Asset Management services. BankMuscat has a 43% stake in the Mangal Keshav Group, one of the oldest and most respected securities houses in the fast-growing Indian equities market.
Epitomising the distinct Omani heritage, BankMuscat has evolved during the past 29 years to become a towering presence not only in the banking sector, but in all arenas of the Sultanate of Oman. Taking major strides in tandem with the nation's progress, BankMuscat has scripted a success story viewed as a reference point by the banking industry. Owing to strategic initiatives and qualitative achievements, BankMuscat is in a league of its own as the people's banking partner in Oman.
Commenting on the successful march, Sunder George, Deputy Chief Executive, said: "BankMuscat enjoys an unrivalled position in Oman as well as the region, a clear recognition of the global best practices pursued by the Bank. BankMuscat is one of the few GCC-based banks which is in a position to provide customers and counterparts pan-GCC coverage. With branches in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait and an associate in Bahrain, with its branch in Qatar, and a Representative Office in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), BankMuscat is uniquely positioned to meet the needs of counterparties for their requirements in the GCC region and thereby support the increasing trade and investment flows between Oman, the GCC and Asia."
BankMuscat has very strong Project/ Infrastructure Finance, Corporate Finance & Advisory credentials and is one of the few banks in the region to consistently enjoy global top 25 rankings. BankMuscat is very active in Trade Finance and Financial Institution business, with FI risk appetite covering most countries in Asia and South Asia, the GCC and the larger Middle East as well as parts of Africa.
BankMuscat Expat Services offers a gamut of financial solutions to the non-resident Indian (NRI) community in Oman. As the Sultanate's leading bank, BankMuscat understands the banking and investment priorities of expatriates and offers structured services based on their short-term and long-term financial needs. Expat Services provides easy and convenient access to all banking solutions ranging from savings accounts to wealth management.
BankMuscat is the recipient of most of the prestigious foreign, regional and local awards. The notable recognitions include the Best Bank in Oman awards by The Banker, Global Finance and Euromoney. The Bank achieved the rare distinction of becoming the first and only corporate entity from Oman to be listed in 'The Forbes Global 2000' featuring the biggest and most powerful listed companies of the world. BankMuscat is the world's first PCMM-Level 3 certified bank in recognition of benchmark human resources process improvements as well as the winner of the Best Employer in the Middle East award by Hewitt.
BankMuscat is ranked among the top 500 global banking brands. The Bank's brand value rose to $300 million in 2011 compared to $202 million in 2010, according to the 2011 Brand Finance Banking 500 report, published in association with The Banker magazine. The report ranked BankMuscat 331 among the top 500 global banking brands and 26 among the most valuable Middle Eastern brands.
All BankMuscat products and services have evolved over the years in tandem with specific customer requirements, offering superior levels of banking convenience and connectivity. The Bank remains committed to excellence in providing innovative banking solutions.
BankMuscat is the first Omani bank to establish a full-fledged Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) department. The CSR policy stems from the Bank's strong belief in the importance of social responsibility. The Bank is of the view that its social responsibility is not merely participation in charitable works and organisation of voluntary campaigns, but responsibility towards all-round development of society.
BankMuscat moved into its new purpose-built headquarters in 2010. Incorporating the latest technology and trends, the new landmark building is the result of the Bank's natural growth progression during the past 29 years. The iconic headquarters strengthens the Bank's reputation as a forward-thinking business at the heart of its people and cultural heritage. Reckoned a Renaissance achievement of Oman, the new headquarters redefines benchmarks in workplace design. A perfect expression of functional finesse, the banking experience in the new environment infuses strong professional as well as cultural links among the largest banking family in Oman.

SULTAN QABOOS UNIVERSITY For A Great Learning Experience

SULTAN QABOOS UNIVERSITY For A Great Learning Experience

Sultan Qaboos University is the realisation of the promise announced by His. Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said during the 10th anniversary of Oman's National Day in 1980. Construction started in 1982 and the first Sultan Qaboos University students were enrolled in 1986. In accordance with the Royal Directives of Sultan Qaboos, The University commenced with five colleges; namely Medicine, Engineering, Agriculture, Education and Science. Furthermore the College of Arts was established in 1987, following the College of Commerce and Economics which was developed in 1993. The College of Law joined the University in 2006 and finally the College of Nursing was established in 2008.
Set in a valley beneath the stark panorama of the nearby foothills of the Oman Mountains, the University is a tasteful array of buildings designed with arches and courtyards and constructed in white and pink sandstone in a manner that reflects traditional Omani and Islamic architecture. The University was constructed on an axis in the valley with one end aligned toward Mecca.
Altogether, the campus portrays the rich heritage of Oman and Islam while incorporating all the efficiencies of modern life. The result is an educational and living environment which is both functional and attractive.
Earlier this year, the University organised an International Symposium titled 'Oman And India: Prospects and Civilisation' under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, adviser to Sultan Qaboos. The Symposium did much to enrich Oman-India relations in economic, scientific, cultural and social areas, and was of particular importance to the University which seeks to strengthen research relations with various scientific institutions around the world, and especially in India.

'Oman - A Model For Others To Follow'

'Oman - A Model For Others To Follow'

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said recently presided over the opening of the Council of Oman's 5th term for 2011 at Hisn Al Shomoukh in the Wilayat of Manah in the A'Dakhiliyah Governorate. Excerpts from the Royal Speech

We spoke before, on this same glorious occasion, about Oman's Shura (Consultation) experiment and about the gradual path we chose to build it on firm foundations and stable pillars that will ensure its natural growth, meet the requirements of each phase of national work, and also respond to the community's needs and - by applying wisdom in its vision and in the implementation of its procedures - fulfil its aspirations of contributing more effectively to the decision-making process for the higher interest of the country and citizens.
The building of a modern state which we pledged to establish since the first moment of the dawn of the Blessed Renaissance required us to exert big efforts in the field of establishing the infrastructure which is the pillar and first cornerstone of comprehensive development. The provision of this infrastructure in all parts of the Sultanate has given a big opportunity for construction development in various cities and villages throughout Oman and paved the way for the establishment of many economic, commercial and industrial projects as well as different educational, cultural, health and social institutions. Any observer of daily life in Oman will see this quite clearly. And no wonder. Omanis have been, from ancient times, makers of civilisation with their great historical heritage, their openness to other civilisations across the seas and oceans, and their ability to communicate and exchange mutual benefits with others. This is why Omanis are well-qualified to be an example and a model for others to follow in this age of rapid development and progress, and why they are also capable of coping with the challenges of the modern age, and adopting every new enlightened idea, benefiting from sciences and new technology and at the same time always preserving the values and high principles that they believe in, and the traditions and authentic customs with which they were brought up.
We all know that progress is part of the reality of the universe we live in. However, many ways and means are required in order to achieve it. The first of these is a strong will and determination, and a readiness to face challenges and persist in one's endeavours to overcome difficulties and obstacles. Therefore every nation that desires to live -- in the full meaning of the word - needs to roll up its sleeves and work tirelessly and diligently with dedication and the love to give generously to utilise its capacities and skills and invest in its resources and potential, so that it can build a great and illustrious present and prepare for a decent and prosperous future. Through God's grace, the Omani people have been granted many of these qualities, and over the past four decades they were able to realise achievements which still stand as clear evidence that cannot be denied by anybody who has the power of vision and insight.
We are living in a world that has witnessed rapid developments at regional and international levels that have had a different impact and opposing reactions. As the world is characterised by over-lapping interests and policies we cannot be detached from what is happening around us. The Sultanate has always been known for adopting a clear policy based on cooperation with all in accordance with the firm principles of mutual respect, encouragement of dialogue and rejection of violence in tackling issues, in order to come up with communities where fraternisation and stability prevail which will enable nations to continue their development march and achieve their objectives of progress and prosperity in an atmosphere of security, free of disturbances, and encourage the implementation of economic and social plans and programmes in accordance with priorities dictated by public interests. We in the Sultanate, and despite the crises swarming the world and the difficulties in predicting their limits, timescale, and their repercussions on the countries' economy, we endeavour to lessen these impacts by adopting balanced economic policies to preserve our gains and boost our economic plans in various spheres, going forward with determination to complete the establishment of the modern state based on solid foundations that guarantee the continuation of the development of natural and human resources, spreading education, culture and knowledge and providing security and stability and consolidating the basis of institutional work that leads, with God's assistance, to more progress, prosperity and a decent living for all citizens.

Relations between Oman and India are on a good roll and only set to get better, says Issa Ibrahim Al Farsi, Consul General of Oman in Mumbai

Going Good, Getting Better

Relations between Oman and India are on a good roll and only set to get better, says Issa Ibrahim Al Farsi, Consul General of Oman in Mumbai

As we celebrate the 41st National Day of the Sultanate of Oman, it is worth noting that our country has been making significant strides in the field of Education, IT, Manufacturing, Oil & Gas, non-oil businesses and Human Resources. Furthermore, the building of new highways, roads, airports and sea ports has made transportation more efficient. As a result, we are attracting more investments today, leading to an increase in trade and economic growth. Since Oman has huge gas resources, major investments have been made in this sector in keeping with the government's 'Vision 2020' of diversifying the sources of national economy.
Under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, and the wise policies implemented by him, Oman has managed to transform itself into a modern country that has stamped its presence on the world map. Many factors are playing a part in the blossoming of Oman's economy. These include our business-friendly environment, the rule of law, and the Free Trade Agreements we share with various countries.
Oman and India have shared excellent trade relations for several decades. The Arabian Sea joins our two countries, bringing our people closer. Economically, politically, culturally and commercially, the Oman-India relationship has flourished over the years. Perhaps the two most prominent examples of joint Indo-Oman investment are the Oman India Fertiliser Project (in Oman) and Bharat Oman Refineries Limited (in India).
Tourism is a major economic sector in Oman, and more flights have been made operational for the ease of tourism. We have launched Oman's Ministry of Tourism in India so as to promote tourism, and enable Indian tourists to travel to the Sultanate with ease. Incidentally, Oman's favourite tourism and medical destination is India.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry in India, along with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), organised a two-day Partnership Summit on 'New Partnerships for Economic Resurgence: The Global Imperative' in Mumbai. Over 1,200 participants representing 30 countries attended the summit, wherein Oman was the focus country. During the programme, a review of trade relations between Oman and India was conducted, wherein we discussed aspects of joint cooperation between the two countries, especially in the areas of trade, industry and oil refineries among others. The Business Council of Oman-India shed some light on the good climate for investment in the Sultanate and the projects to be implemented during the eighth Five Year Plan from 2011 to 2015; the Port of Sohar and the services, facilities and features available in order to attract more investment projects, particularly those associated with iron industries, and projects that benefit from the Port of Sohar as a regional logistics base for all goods and services. It also shed light on the Duqm Port and Dry Dock project in the Central Region, which opened in April this year and its strategic geographical location in the region, in addition to incentives and facilities available at the port to investors.
In May 2011, under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister of India, Bharat Oman Refineries Limited (BORL), a company promoted by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) with equity participation from Oman Oil Company Limited (OOCL) set up a 6 MMTPA grass root refinery at Bina in Madhya Pradesh. The refinery has a capacity of producing up to 120,000 barrels per day.
I am delighted to invite Indian investors to explore the immense business opportunities in the Sultanate of Oman. I would also like to welcome more Indians tourists to visit my country.
On the glorious occasion of the 41st National Day of the Sultanate of Oman, I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Government, and the people of my country.

Muscat International Airport The Gateway To Oman

Muscat International Airport The Gateway To Oman

The Sultanate of Oman is a country that beckons the world, and Suresh K. Virmani, the man who is always on a mission to excellence - Muscat International Airport is yet another such challenge.


The award of electro-mechanical works, on design and build basis of the new Muscat International Airport Passenger Terminal Building and construction of electrical and mechanical infrastructure works is the largest such project in the history of nation and of BEC.
The 550,000 sq. mtr. of built up area including Ancillary Forecourt Buildings, Traffic Concourse and multi-structured Car Park shall be capable to handle 12 million passengers per annum. The Terminal building also includes a 90 room Hotel and will have 40 passenger boarding bridges. The capacity of Central Air-Conditioning Plant is 34,000 TR. It shall have 3 Nos 132/11 KV Substations with 340 MVA installed transformer capacity.

For Suresh K. Virmani, M.D. and the man behind the success of BEC, it is all about commitment to excellence and walking the talk - "and we have been doing so for 35 years now and are still hungry for more! - says Virmani.
"The new Muscat International Airport will be the true Gateway to Oman. The most beautiful and peace loving country in the entire region for those who love and enjoy natural beauty, tranquil beaches, and rejuvenating atmosphere, it is a must visit. We are obviously proud to be associated with this land mark project in the history of the nation".
"BEC made a strong bid, and our consortium was awarded this prestigious project," he further adds. "It's the largest ever project in the electromechanical arena undertaken by a company in Oman. Even so, the joy of getting an order is momentary; the celebration is only when you deliver. However, I'd like to emphasise here that we are ready to take on similar projects, even simultaneously alongside the airport project. We have reorganised the whole company, and are ready to triple our present turnover in two years time!
From an Indian standpoint, Oman is a natural partner country, with ties that date back to the old seafaring linkages; the intimacy of Oman's royal family with India; and the decisive role of the Indian expatriate community in the building of Oman. A flight into the Sultanate takes just two hours; there's excellent air connectivity between Muscat and several Indian cities; and people-to-people relations remain warm and friendly as ever.
"There's no better place than Oman to go on a vacation, especially between November and March, when the weather is great. I would love to see more Indian visitors coming to Oman. I promise you in a couple of years you will have a world class airport to welcome you. But you can be assured of a warm welcome anytime because the Omani people have always been very hospitable," Virmani summates.

Malaysia – Truly Asia

A holiday in Malaysia has something for everyone. Visit Malaysia to get a taste of all of Asia in a single destination

Malaysia boasts of unspoilt nature, endless white sand beaches, rich cultures, fabulous festivals and gastronomic delights. The country offers diverse experiences - from the excitement of Kuala Lumpur to the architecture and history of Penang, from the luxurious beaches and rainforests of Langkawi to the history and cuisine of Melaka.
The vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur is modern, brash and bold, home to the architectural urban wonder the Petronas Twin Towers, fashionable boutiques and restaurants dishing up cutting-edge cuisine.
A shopper's instinct, and an excuse to party, is all you need to enjoy Kuala Lumpur. At the break of dawn, hit the shops for some retail therapy. From the malls of Bukit Bintang to the splendor of Suria KLCC, you can shop in air-conditioned comfort for hours! At sundown, dance the night away at the country's premier party destinations.
After this modern metropolis, the quaint colonial streets of Penang and Kota Kinabalu in Borneo are a welcome break, with their cosy pubs and all-night coffee houses.
Often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient, Penang is one of the most romantic cities of the East. Once a British trading post, it is today a bustling city with a unique blend of the East and West reflected in its heritage buildings, lifestyle, and the fabulous local cuisine.
Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah, is set against the backdrop of Mount Kinabalu and stretches for miles along the South China Sea coast. It's perfect for relaxing, snorkelling and a wide variety of watersports. A must-visit is the Signal Hill Observatory that offers a bird's eye-view of the city; the unique 30-storey Sabah Foundation Building; the State Mosque resplendent with its majestic domes and golden motifs; and the Likas Bird Sanctuary.
Langkawi, an archipelago made up of 99 islands on Malaysia's west coast, is the country's best-known holiday destination. Surrounded by stunning turquoise sea, the shoreline is fringed by powder-fine sand and swaying coconut trees. The interior of the main island is a mix of picturesque paddy fields and jungle-clad hills. The gastronomic options are vast and the sightseeing attractions include the expansive Underwater World Langkawi and the soaring Cable Car.
Snorkelling and scuba diving in the clear waters of Pulau Payar Marine Park is a must-do. Sailing, kayaking and power-boating around the many islands are other great options. Langkawi is also home to spectacular natural reserves that help protect local animal life
and make for great day
trips inland.
Malacca, located on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the Straits of Malacca, is a melting pot of Malay, British, Dutch and Portuguese culture that is visible in its customs, heritage buildings, ancient landmarks and colonial structures in the old section of the city. The new section of the city lies across the Malacca River, and is home to modern shopping centres and a food and entertainment district.
For those seeking world-class leisure and entertainment, experiencing Genting Highlands Resort is a must. The resort has won numerous awards of excellence such as "Best Deluxe Family Resort/Theme Park", "Outstanding Achievements in Hotel/Resort Development" and "Asia Pacific's Leading Casino Resort 2001".
The resort's attractions include over 50 fun rides; 80 dining and 70 shopping outlets; six uniquely themed leisure walk boulevards at First World Plaza - the highest shopping centre in Malaysia at about 2,000 metres above sea level; Casino de Genting - a world-class gaming entertainment area; and many world class shows and events.
A holiday in Malaysia highlights the country's contrasting landscapes; the brown eagles circling high over the humid Mangrove Forests in Langkawi couldn't be more different than the Cameron Highlands with its serene gardens and tea plantations. The sight of turtles hatching on Turtle Island and orang-utans in Borneo are far removed from the steamy buffets and packed markets of the city centre.
Experience the sheer pleasure of a holiday in Malaysia!

Travel blogs to read, watch

The Cheapest Destination blog
Need we say more? Readers
can find tips on how to plan a
trip to an exotic vacation spot
on a shoestring budget and
still have a good time
http://travel.booklocker.com

The Vacation Gals Blog
entries here are all about
ideal destinations for romantic
getaways, family vacations and
all-girls gang trips
http://thevacationgals.com

TravelerWIRE
The blog ,as the blogger Tanya
Schliff puts it, is about all
things ‘travel’. It includes
restaurant reviews, accessories
that are absolutely essential
and gadgets. It answers
two of your most important
questions while travelling:
Where to sleep and eat?
http://blog.directoryofhotels.com

As We Travel
Navigating through this blog is
easy, making it a boon to both
first time and frequent travellers.
The blog is filled with upto-
date facts about travelling. It
also includes videos and easy
to read city guides
www.aswetravel.com

Backpack with Brock
Believed to have one of the
best travel videos , Backpack
with Brock includes photos, reviews
and travel stories that
can help one plan his trip from
the beginning to the end
www.backpackwithbrock.com

Where East meets West The ravages of war and Communist rule have left their marks everywhere, but equally noticeable is the transformation of East Germany in the past couple of decades, writes after a visit to Berlin, Gorlitz and Dresden

Where East meets West

The ravages of war and Communist rule have left their marks everywhere, but equally noticeable is the transformation of East Germany in the past couple of decades, writes after a visit to Berlin, Gorlitz and Dresden

In Berlin, cycle taxis are a good mode of transportation to explore the city

The stark contrast between the dozens of baggage runways at Frankfurt airport and the lone conveyor belt at Berlin's Tegel airport pretty much represents the divide between West and East Germany. While Frankfurt in the West got on to the fast track, Berlin nurses a hangover of the Eastern days. As I was driven into the German capital, I got the feeling that even two decades after reunification, Berlin still retains the distinctive stamp of the Communist era.
Born-again Berlin
Karl Marx Street, formerly called Stalin Strasse, a 20-lane-wide tribute to the common man, left me wondering at the size of the Communist armies that must have marched down this street. It was only at the Potsdamer Platz that the before-and-after story became apparent. This entire area once had either vacant land or buildings ravaged by war. Seeing today's futuristic buildings at Potsdamer, it was hard to believe that the transformation had taken place in less than 20 years.
What has changed little is the traditional food, from gnocchi (soft dumplings) at the TV Tower's rotating restaurant to a dinner of pork knuckles and flat pasta at Zur Letzten Instanz, which is the oldest restaurant in Berlin (started in 1621, according to its own signboard). Or you can be equally satiated with the 1euro sausage-breads on the sidewalk.
Old-world Gorlitz
From Berlin to the quaint town of Gorlizt is just a couple of hours by road, but it seems like a world apart. From rooms in homes-turned-boutique hotels for less than 80 euros and traditional meals for less than 10 euros (with a glass of wine thrown in), to shopping for German souvenirs at Polish prices, Gorlitz is one value-for-money European destination.
And how often do you get to travel between two countries on foot? Cross the bridge across the Gorlitz river, and you are in Poland.
Indestructible Dresden
If Gorlitz represents old world charm, you have to visit Dresden to see German resilience. Long after the allies won the war, they came striking at Dresden just to test the potency of their weapons of mass destruction. And whatever was left after the carpet bombing during the war, was reduced to rubble by the Communists in the 60s and 70s. It's remarkable therefore how they have put the pieces back together and rebuilt the entire city in the last two decades.
The only monument that survived was the Church of Our Lady, which today is the nucleus of the city. For an Indian, a visit to the green vault in the Palace Museum is well worth one's while for a look at a big green diamond that came out of India and a local artist's lavish interpretation of Aurangzeb's court. As much as the inner city is about art and architecture, the outskirts are an epitome of European beauty — from the Saxon Switzerland, with its rolling meadows and grazing cows, to Glashutte, an entire village dedicated to watch making; from the Bastei rock formation, which is a tourist magnet, to the Meissen porcelain factory, which has its roots in the quest to make gold in a laboratory. Never mind the gold, this place promises golden memories.

The tragic other Ireland Belfast has been through a lot: A three- decade long political bombing of 'The Troubles' and the destruction of what was believed to be a ship that was unsinkable. writes about how the city is trying to get back on its feet

The tragic other Ireland

Belfast has been through a lot: A three- decade long political bombing of 'The Troubles' and the destruction of what was believed to be a ship that was unsinkable. writes about how the city is trying to get back on its feet



If Shakespeare had to write a play with Belfast as its main protagonist, it would be one of his tragedies.
Don't get me wrong. There is nothing tragic about Belfast today. It is the city's history — its meteoric rise and fall within the span of a century that lends the capital of Northern Ireland its tragic aura. It is the story of its rise as the shipbuilding and linen-making capital of the world at the end of the 19th century, its decline during the three-decade long political bombing of 'The Troubles' and now its brave move to reinvent itself as a city of the future (by fashioning itself after every other city of the future) that makes me look at Belfast that way.
It was in Belfast's dockyards where the ill-fated Titanic was constructed in 1909-12. Three decades later, during World War II, Belfast was the UK's second-most bombed city after London because the Germans wanted to halt production in its shipyards that hugely aided Allied efforts. In one night alone, 1,000 people died in German bombing.

Photos: A Palestinian flag beside Falls Road, a gate to the office that was open to shipyard workers for 10 minutes everyday and the Titanic Visitor facility. The height of each of its wings corresponds to the height of the Titanic's bow

The bombings didn't stop there. About 25 years later, political conflict, referred to locally as 'The Troubles' started in Northern Ireland and its largest city, Belfast, bore the brunt of it for nearly 30 years. On one side were Catholic nationalists or those who wanted Belfast and Northern Ireland to join the Republic of Ireland. On the other side of this divide were Protestant Unionists who wanted Northern Ireland to remain with the United Kingdom. In 1998, the warring groups signed the Good Friday agreement that has kept the peace except for sporadic incidents of violence.
During a whirlwind tour, one can clearly see it still bears marks of a city divided. An 18-foot high wall made of reinforced concrete, topped with corrugated sheets and barbed wire runs for five miles, dividing Catholic and Protestant communities, eerily reminiscent of the hateful wall that divided Berlin. Locals call it the peace wall because it "keeps the peace," says our guide. In a city where minor incidents like football-related violence can lead to major flare-ups, the wall is essential to keeping warring groups on their side of the fence. Its many gates, manned by CCTV cameras, are shut at night and at the signs of the slightest trouble.
At Falls Road, where the Catholic community is dominant, a section of the wall is covered with murals dedicated to worldwide movements against oppression. A portrait of Marxist revolutionary Che Guvera (who has Irish ancestry) stares down at you as a Palestinian flag flutters from a pole beside the road.
You will never see a Union Jack in Falls Road, says our guide. Similarly, you will be foolish to carry an Irish flag on Shankill Road, the Protestant enclave. "The only thing Irish about this road," chuckles our guide, "is its name."
Rosie Smith, a friend who grew up in Belfast during The Troubles recalls it was part of daily life. "We didn't live in constant fear of being bombed but The Troubles manifested themselves for me in the form of inconveniences. The train to and from school would frequently be delayed by bomb scares. When we went shopping, you'd have your bag searched every time you went into a shop."
During the quickie tour, the names our guide rattles off are a blur. The most bombed bank, a school that still has bullet marks in its walls, an apartment block taken over by the IRA — are all testaments to Belfast's difficult past.
That said, Belfast is trying hard to rid itself of this troubled history by reinventing itself as a city of opportunity and growth. The Titanic quarter, where shipbuilding firm Harland and Wolff built some of the world's largest liners, is dominated by construction cranes and shiny new apartment blocks. The shed, where the Titanic was painted, now houses a studio owned by Hollywood star Tom Hanks in which HBO's mega series Game of Thrones is being filmed.
Ironically, it is the Titanic that is one of the attractions Belfast is trying to capitalise on. 2012 marks the centenary of the luxury liner's maiden voyage and tragic end four days later. Sign on for the Titanic Walking Tour to visit the dusty corridors of the once-grand offices of Harland and Wolff. Our Titanic walk guide Ed tells us how shipyard workers only got a seven-minute break all day. Supervisors called 'minute men' would time these breaks and make a note of whoever exceeded the limit. Penalties included pay cuts and even termination. 100 years later, conditions at the Maruti plant in Gurgaon seem strangely similar. Workers on the Maruti assembly line have gone on strike several times in the past few months to protest against similar 7-minute toilet-cum-tea breaks!
During the tour, you are also taken to the boardroom where White Star Line chairman Bruce Ismay insisted that passengers walking onboard for the first time would be alarmed to see its many lifeboats and ordered that they be reduced. In the movie, Ismay is shown to have escaped the sinking ship by getting onto a lifeboat by disguising himself as a woman.
Speaking of disguises, I see Belfast's attempts to reinvent itself akin to efforts of an industrious older brother trying to compete with the more exciting but somewhat spoilt younger brother (Dublin). I'm more than ready to drink to the success of that!

Patches of Christchurch in New Zealand

Christchurch after the quake


Patches of Christchurch in New Zealand look as though they had been subjected to a severe thrashing before being gouged out. What's left, post the February 2011 earthquake, in parts of the city centre with its once-magnificent Gothic architecture, is cannibalised chaos. But like a divorce that comes as a shock after what you thought was a particularly beautiful marriage, you move on, you re-build, sometimes better than before, and the pain does eventually go away.
And Christchurch is doing just that - rebuilding. While parts of the city remain cordoned off, most visitor services, from the airport accommodation to the tourist attractions, continue to remain open. Exploration, for those who've been here before, feels like an extended state of rediscovery. For instance, the half-an-hour boat punt down the Avon river, which runs like a parting in a thick head of hair through a section of the 30 hectares of Botanical Gardens planted with over 10,000 specimens of indigenous and imported plants, is a surreal experience.
There's the sound of birds and peace to be found in the reflection of the willow trees in the water, but there's also the faint but jarring noise of earthquake-hit buildings being pulled down. The boatman says philosophically, "What goes up must come down." As we approach the photogenic, green-and-white Antigua Boatshed to dock, I find myself grateful for the blissful boat ride, and the sounds of the buildings being demolished feel like a poetic if tragic reminder of the transience of life.
But no matter what mood I'm in, the place I'm told I simply can't miss is She Chocolat. A 20-minute drive from the city centre, it offers, in addition to its gourmet menu, locally- produced, handcrafted chocolates and truffles. The aficionados just can't seem to get enough of the produce of this veritable Hansel 'n Gretel house — Mayan bars, chocolates with beetroot centres, hot coffee bombs, and delectable treats like Mocha from Marz made from layers of walnuts, coffee ganache, and marzipan.
As I sip my Mayan hot chocolate, feeling warm and comforted, the waitress tells me that when the earthquakes struck, the café sent out, in its large 'chocolate' bus, free mugs of hot chocolate to all affected victims. She says, "The police woman to whom I offered a mug told me that this was the first moment in the whole day that she had a chance to stop and rest. Chocolate was, in a way, doing what it does best — nourishing every soul."
The 45-minute hot air balloon ride with "Up, Up and Away" puts things further in perspective. From up there, with a view of the sun rising out of the Pacific Ocean to the east and the snow-covered Southern Alps to the west, high above the lush farmlands of the Canterbury plains, things are put into context. I'm reminded yet again that no matter what's gone down, Christchurch is still the gateway to several marvelous experiences on offer in the wider South Island. That this is the starting point for many Antarctic expeditions. That within a few hours drive from here, I could be iceberg-cruising in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, or swimming with the world's rarest dolphins in Akaroa harbour.
There were several other things I relished about the trip to Christchurch. A visit to the Antarctic centre with its little penguins, 4-D theatre, and simulation rooms recreating the Antarctic experience. Shopping at Untouched World, known for its merino and natural fiber clothing. Dinner at the vastly popular Italian restaurant Tutto Bene. But really it was just being present as the town was recovering from the quake that moved me the most.
In the voice of every taxi driver I spoke to, there were undertones of hope — that the 'new' Christchurch would be an improvement on the old, that this was a chance to re-design and recreate the city. In the casino, which opened in May 2011, just 3 months after the 6.3 magnitude earthquake, I saw signs of resilience. In the people who went beyond the call of duty to see that their neighbours were doing all right, I saw empathy, and a living, breathing manifestation of hope over history.

Hampi, in Karnataka, is one of the most documented places you can visit but it can still surprise you, as discovered when she strayed from the beaten track

The stone chariot at the Vitthala Temple

a rather sturdy coracle made of bamboo split wickerwork ferries people across the Tungabhadra ( the boatman must swirl you real fast when you're midway)

A heart of stone

Hampi, in Karnataka, is one of the most documented places you can visit but it can still surprise you, as discovered when she strayed from the beaten track



As I drove towards Hampi's main bazaar, a close friend's jibe rang in my ears, "You spoil it all by 'researching' your destinations. You travel only to tick off your to-do lists."
I smirked. I had had a day to plan this trip, and my homework was flawless. Day 1: Check out the ruins psychotically jotted down in my notebook. Day 2: Check out some more ruins (what else?). Leave by noon.
But the minute I entered the bazaar, I knew I had smirked too soon. The Portuguese traveller, Domingo Paes, visited Hampi in 1520 and said, "…it seems to me like Rome". If he were to overhear my plans, he'd flick the back of my head that instant.
I stood several feet away from the towering gopuram (entrance) of the Virupaksha temple. On either side stood the colonnaded bazaar built in the 13thcentury. Kutchi, Rajasthani and leather goods may have replaced spices, diamonds and gold sold back then, but the bazaar still seemed to draw its energy from the nine-tiered ornate gopuram affectionately overseeing the goings-on even today — locals selling trinkets to foreigners in impeccable English dipped in the heavy, yet lyrical accents that characterise Hampi's Kannadigas; a bookshop owner running out with pamphlets whenever he sees a new face in the bazaar; and a lady called Reshma offering free gajras with her bananas. I turned around to see the centuries-old columns stretching three kilometres behind me. Concrete walls had been illegally constructed around the granite to house Hampi's increasing population.
I understood then. You don't 'plan' Hampi. You can check out all the photographs and travelogues you like, believe that you know what the erstwhile Vijayanagara empire has to offer, but Hampi will always give you more.

ruins of a13th century colonnaded bazaar

Beyond the bazaar
Hampi flourished under the rule of two kings — Deva Raya II and Krishnadeva Raya, who showcased their might by building shrines and monuments. But in 1565, it all came to an end when Hampi was captured by the combined armies of Bijapur, Golconda and Ahmednagar, and vandalised.
Today, locals in the 500-odd homes in Hampi village seem to have forgotten a time when tourists did not drop by for a chat, or to enquire about guest houses. As one guest house owner admitted, "Hampi would feel desolate and eerie without tourists, and it's not just because of the money they bring."
The village has higgledy-piggledy lanes of colurful, one-storeyed homes. Rooms come cheap (Rs300 being on the upper side). Other things, like a glass of warm milk just taken from a cow, and suggestions to visit Hampi's best eatery, Mango Tree, come free. The next day, my friend and I mulled over what to do while watching Virupaksha temple's resident elephant Laxmi being bathed by three attendants along the Tungabhadra. We decided the ruins could wait. We told our guide Nagaraj we wanted to see Hampi's prehistoric cave paintings, making him raise his eyebrows.
Back to the Iron Age
We followed Nagaraj uphill, away from Hampi's bazaar , and we were soon panting as we cut through thick foliage. We passed a number of massive boulders before Nagaraj stopped by one of them and pointed out faint brown marks on it. Then he took our bottles and splashed water across the boulder. Voila! Bright red paintings in herbal colours showed up, looking so fresh that they could have been traced the day before. There were fish, stick figures carrying firewood, cattle, even a patch depicting a burial site. "These were made in 1500 BC, in the Iron Age. But no one cares now. As far as I know, you're the second pair to come and see this in 14 years," said Nagaraj.
The Dutch Connection
As we moved on and stood atop a hillock, we heard soft jazz music coming out of a cottage. "Oh, Robert's home," said Nagaraj, explaining that Robert Geesink was a Dutch painter who had made Hampi his home since the 1970s, dedicating himself to painting the ruins.
We went up to the first floor where Robert, 70, greeted us with a wink and cleared up some ceramic debris to make place for us. Robert and his friend were working on either side of the entrance to his studio, chipping tiles to make a mosaic of two dragons breathing fire.
"Just learning, just learning..."

Robert rolled a cigarette and waited, as if he knew the questions I'd throw at him — why Hampi instead of Amsterdam? Does he really only paint Hampi?
"In the 60s, I wanted to be an illustrator and briefly worked at the Elle magazine in Paris. But I hated having a boss. So, I left the country." Just like that? "Yes."
Inspired by Dutch painter Vam Batheveld who frequently visited India to paint, Robert toured the north, Gujarat, Kanyakumari and then, Hampi. "I fell in love with the Lambani tribes here. Their gypsy way of life, colourful attires... I fell in love and married one of them." Robert's first wife died after 17 years. Now he lives with his 30-year-old second wife, Jaini, and four children. His studio is a beautiful mess of paintings of Hampi's boulders, ruins, temples, Lambani women and his muse, Jaini.
Robert has sold many Hampi paintings in Amsterdam and Delhi. I asked him whether he ever thought of going back home to Amsterdam. "Hampi is home. I live in the past and the present. Can anything be better than that?"

Carved slices of life
Finally, on our third day in the village, we hired a bike to see Hampi's ruins. Our guide this time was Krishna, and he was on a mission to pack in all the must-sees and must-dos before dusk. He showed us the musical columns at the Vitthala temple. "But I can't play them… there are too many security guards in the temple," he said apologetically. To make up for this, he took us to a stone carving that depicts nine scenes. Depending on how you see it, the carving could be a toad reaching out for its young one, a serpent perched to pounce on a monkey, or two monkeys hanging from a tree.
The more you look at the slices of Vijayanagara life carved in stone, the more you appreciate how Hampi's splendid past cradles its present. Most locals, like Krishna, have given up farming to become tourist guides, guest house owners or shopkeepers in the bazaar. Their versions of history vary — three guides will tell you three different stories behind a stone carving. However, every one of them is so ingenious that you don't seem to mind the gaps in their training (most local 'guides' are self-taught, thanks to the many books on Hampi).
That night, as I walked through a long patch of banana plantations in the dark to reach Mango Tree for my last meal in Hampi, my friend asked me if everything on my to-do list had been ticked off. Sitting under a mango tree by the gushing Tungabhadra, the only flickers of light being the lanterns placed on our low wooden tables, I had to admit, at least to myself, that the wretched notebook now lies in a bin outside one of Hampi's many ruins.

NY COMEDY FESTIVAL

 
At more than 10 venues, over
150 comedians will perform
including Ricky Gervais, Tracy
Morgan, Wanda Sykes, Russel
Peters and more. There are panel
discussions, a star-studded
fundraiser for the Scleroderma
Research Foundation and a
“New York’s Funniest Stand-Up”
competition. The festival highlights
include a performance by
Louis CK and Bill Maher, and a
discussion with Ricky Gervais
November 9-13
New York

CIRCLE CRAFT MARKET Vancouver Convention Centre, Canada

 
Canada display their creations
at the sprawling Circle Craft
Christmas Market. Watch
artists in action at glass-blowing,
wood-turning and blacksmith
demonstrations. This
year’s new artists include ecoclothing,
Haida culture inspired
clothing and accessories, sweet
bamboo gear for kids, wheelthrown
and hand built pottery
There is an entertainment stage
that will feature an impressive
line-up of ballet dancers
November 9-13, Vancouver
Convention Centre, Canada

KITE FESTIVAL, Dunas de Corralejo Park, Spain

Kite flyers from around the
world flock to the beach to
make use of the early November
Atlantic Trade winds blowing
across Fuerteventura. The start
of the three-day event, usually a
Friday, is marked by the distribution
of commemorative
T- shirts and an all day ‘free fly’
on the beach. The following
morning the stars of the kiteworld
display their craftsmanship
until dusk. After dinner,
there is a night display on the
‘Playa de Corralejo’.
November 10-13, Dunas de
Corralejo Park, Spain

EQUITANA AUSTRALIA

This annual equine event attracts
over 50,000 visitors
every year. It features four days
of horses, Olympic gold
medallists, world renowned
educators, Aussie cowboys and
over 350 exhibitors making up
the largest equine shopping
spree in Australia. Equitana wil
be home to the Equestrian Australia
Grand Final, a world class
equestrian competition in dressage,
jumping and exhibition
November 10-13
Sydney

PUSHKAR MELA 2011

The Pushkar Fair is India’s
greatest tribal gathering featuring
cattle traders, merchants,
musicians and artisans.
Apart from the camel
race, there will be a camel
and horse dance competition,
a kabbadi match between the
locals and visitors and a turban
tying and tilak competion.
November 2-10
Pushkar, Rajasthan

Colourful & Joyous Celebrations of Rajasthan
Pushkar Mela - Rajasthan The Rajasthani’s love for colour and joyous celebrations is proved by the elaborate rituals and the gay abandon with which he surrenders himself to the numerous fairs and festivals of the region. In addition to the festivals celebrated by the Hindus, Muslims and others, there are also the traditional fairs.  There are animal fairs, there are religious fairs and there are fairs to mark the changing  seasons. Infact, celebrations occur almost round the year and are a splendid opportunity for the visitor to gain an insight into the life of the Rajasthani. Other than the traditional fairs, recently established festivals which involve elephants, camel races, dance and music have been specially organised for the tourists