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!