Aish Elaqtta ~ ايش اللقطه

Aishelaqtta Blog Update

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 05:22:00 +0000

This is not good-bye but a see you later....due to a over busy schedule I have not been able to maintain the blog, and associated social media platforms.

I will be back to posting once things settle and there is more of a balance in my life.

For now enjoy what has been posted on this blog, and I hope it’s a useful resource to all those who stop over.

Aishelaqtta ايش اللقطه
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Ceviche Master Class

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 06:58:00 +0000

Can I just say up front that this was simply divine!!

I had the pleasure of attending an afternoon Ceviche Master Class at the Grand Hyatt conducted by Chef Bruno Andres Santa Cruz. Initially I was hesitant, since I had only recently been introduced to ‘ceviche’ and had yet to develop a palate for this cuisine. Oh! What an introduction it was into a sensational culinary experience.

The group was introduced to 5 types of ceviche dishes, all cooked with the main ingredients that goes into creating the cuisine which are basically lime juice, coriander, ginger and garlic. We has a variation of lobster in coconut lime, octopus with black olives, mixed sea food with sweet potato, sea bass with tiger milk and yellow fin tuna with passion fruit. Each cooked using the lime juice and served with exclusive taste.

My actual favorite was the lobster medallions with coconut milk; it added a unique palate were initially you could savor the combination of chili, garlic, ginger and lime on the fresh lobster and then get struck by a gorgeous taste of coconut milk.

I think I could never replicate the tricks used by Chef Bruno in creating his dishes, but I have left with a biased impression that no ceviche would ever taste the same unless made by the Purvian way.

Aishelaqtta ايش اللقطه
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Neymar Jr’s Five Tournament

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 11:36:00 +0000

NEYMAR JR KICKS OFF GLOBAL SIGNATURE FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT THAT LANDS IN OMAN THIS WEEKEND

Neymar Jr is giving thousands of young football players the chance to step up their game by staging a unique knockout tournament. The striker is inviting players aged between 16 - 25 years old in more than 35 countries, across 6 continents, to team up for his five-a-side tournament, ‘Neymar Jr’s Five’.

Five local qualifiers will be held in Oman start this weekend and running throughout the month. The first qualifier will be held this Friday in Boshar and Saturday in Al Maabeila. In the coming weeks the qualifier will also visit Sohar, Sur and Salalah.

The qualifying process will start this weekend for the next month followed by a national champion advancing to the finals in July in Praia Grande, where Neymar Jr grew up, started his professional career and lately founded “Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr”.

The world final will be held in July at the Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The institute’s aim is to offer extracurricular educational and sporting activities to the most socially disadvantaged children and families to promote social inclusion and encourage participation in the community.

Teams of 5 to 7 players can sign up now click here

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Peruvian Ceviche at Grand Hyatt Muscat

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 02 Feb 2016 06:12:00 +0000

Do you have a thing for a popular dish; typically made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, such as lemon or lime, and spiced with ají or chili peppers. I only recently aquired a taste for ceviche and wouldnt mind exporing it further specifically from a master chef!!!

"Latin American culinary craze ‘Peruvian Ceviche’ is set to make its way down to Grand Hyatt Muscat’s John Barry Bar from 11 to 19 February with exclusive sponsorship from Turkish Airlines.

This delicacy is known to have originated from Peru where chefs use only the freshest products and ingredients within the season available. The culinary experience will be hosted by Ceviche master chef Bruno Andres Santa Cruz who is originally Peruvian but currently working at Hyatt Regency Istanbul – The Ceviche’s on the menu at John Barry Bar will include seabass in tiger milk, yellow fin tuna with mango and tumbo, Octopus and black olives, scallops with pisco and pomegranate, shrimps with orange and avocado to name a few." Source

Another exiting activity offered by the Grand Hyatt is that guests will get the opportunity to meet and cook with Chef Bruno also get to learn the tricks of creating the perfect Ceviche which will be followed by dinner and cocktails. The Ceviche Master Class is planned to take place on Wednesday, 17 February starting at 14:30 at John Barry Bar.

For more information, please email muscat.dining@hyatt.com or visit ww.muscat.grand.hyatt.com.

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Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz Carlton Hotel

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 10:36:00 +0000

Accepting the Friday Brunch invite from the Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz Carlton was not just a delight to attend but a pure delight at the thought, since I was going to share a childhood experience with my children that used to be made for me and my sibling by my parents on the odd occasion. It brought back a flood of memories of the charms of visiting the Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz Carlton which I wanted my children to enjoy and cherish a memory of their own.

“Escape to Al Bustan Palace and experience one of the most majestic luxury hotels in Oman, along with scenery unlike any other in the world.”

Words would fail me to describe the ambience as you walk into the hotel; the majestic dome lobby area is nothing short of exceptional with its massive high chandeliers, shining marble walls and the blend of Arab and art deco infused with an elegant quality.

We were received by helpful and friendly staff, and directed to the Beach Pavilion located at the far end of the infinity pool and facing white sandy beach. My children were immediately received by the helpful staff catering for kid’s entertainments; which included face painting, coloring, balloonist; play station and a gift goodie bag with an exclusive lunch buffet for kids. They were so content with the attention they received that I didn’t get to see them again till it was time to leave.

“Al Bustan Palace offers a dramatic Arabian escape on 200 acres of pristine, white-sand beach and lush green gardens”

The Beach Pavilion was decked out with an extensive list of the freshest seafood made and presented in every possible option, a choice of salads, selection of cheeses, outdoor grilling station, an array of deserts and special freshly made ice cream corner which was all topped off with a outside bar which catered for fresh mocktails, cocktails and coconut water!

As I mentioned the ambiance was spectacular with the weather being lightly breezy and music playing in the background. I have to confess that to truly enjoy this experience you need to have at least 3 hours at hand so as to eat at your leisure and relax enjoying the atmosphere around you. Our host actually said that we needed more since most guests enjoy hours at the Beach Pavilion then stroll for a swim in the infinity pool, and head back to enjoy the night set up by the beach.

To receive the hotel’s latest news and special offers by email, please sign up

For reservations call Phone: +968 24764000

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Ambassador Guest Chef

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 05:17:00 +0000

The second event in the unique initiative led by Grand Hyatt Muscat is set to feature the ambassador of Thailand at Marjan restaurant. You can read more about the first Ambassador Chef event with Her Excellency Ambassador Greta C. Holtzon on Muscat Muttering.

This time the event will feature His Excellency Ambassador Pornchai Danvivathana presenting ‘Discover Thailand’ taking place on Tuesday, 1st December. ‘Discover Thailand’ will run for three days, from 1st to 3rd December and will also feature
renowned guest chef Supattra Boonsrang. ‘Discover Thailand’ will feature specialty Thai dishes served a la carte with Ambassador Pornchai heading the kitchen alongside chef Supattra on the opening night. His Excellency will demonstrate a signature Thai dish giving guests the opportunity to experience food prepared exclusively by him.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience authentic Thai cuisine throughout the festival.

For reservations, please call +968 2464 1234. Bookings can be made by emailing
muscat.dining@hyatt.com.

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Opening of Bambini Squisiti

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 05:17:00 +0000

Children clothing has a new address in Oman

Attending this event and venture opening was a great pleasure to me in so many levels. Bambini Squisiti is a family run venture which features a little over 23 international brands and labels; all of which are located within the store in Panorama Mall.

Bambini Squesiti which translates to ‘children exclusive’ is a new fashion haven created by the Ayedeh family, developed by the four daughters and mother who came up with the concept one afternoon. After a lot of work the mid to high end clothing store opened its doors to the thriving Omani customer base. The ladies each contributed with their talents, experience and professional backgrounds in executing and making their ‘one afternoon’ come to reality.

You may wonder as to why they would choose to establish such a fashion focused clothing store in Oman. The answer is simple… they wanted to able to bring the local customers the latest international fashion tends to their door-step.

Thus a customer would be able to walk into the store and find brand names such as Young Versace, Yosi Samra, Nanan, Juicy Couture etc. to name a few.

It was a pleasure to attend such an event, and to witness the fruits of this family venture come to life. As the slogan for Bambini Squisiti says “Exquisite, Fashionable and Trendy” so give them a visit when you’re looking for that something special for your children, or for a exclusive gift item. You don’t need to make the trek all the way to Dubai anymore to find that ‘something more’ simply head over to Panorama Mall for a Bambini Squisiti experience.

Follow on Facebook and Instagram @Bambinisquisiti

Store Contact: 24582528

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Oman Cancer Walkathon 2015

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 06:23:00 +0000

Theme this year is "Don't wait till it's too late"

The Oman Cancer Association (OCA) Walkathon 2015 was held yesterday and most of the feedback was that it was a well organised successful event. Last year the number of visitors to the event was at around 6000 people, this year it is estimated at a higher number of around 8000+!!

PDO being one of the sponsors of the Oman Cancer Association Walkathon; also provides a CSR Program called "Baader" which allows to utilise PDO's employees pool of skill and capability at the country's disposal. I had the oppertunity to work first hand with my selected NGO and be a part of the 'bigger picture'.

T-shirts were sold to visitors during the event with food stalls, photo wall, music and raffle prizes to be won.

To see more pictures of the #OCAWalkathon and if you want to watch direct video feeds of the event then add Aishelaqtta on Snapchat: @dalzr

Aishelaqtta ايش اللقطه
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Lethargic Ramadan Ramble

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 04:43:00 +0000

I have neglected this blog for some time and not by any intentional sense, since I look into it every now and again to see what’s going on in the blogsphere. I have been bogged down with and not in any specific order by Ramadan, work, commuting, meals, gathering, staying sane.

That’s why a part of me considering this as a time off from writing and staying updated. I even reduced the amount of events I needed to attend during the month, so as to just be able to….breath. Do you ever get that feeling? I also believe it’s due to the fact that we haven’t planned a summer break and I am facing the rest of the Eid holidays in Oman. If only I could escape!

Speaking of Eid holidays; there are strong speculations that Eid will fall on a Saturday and the expectation is that we would be given the whole week off due to it also considering with the National Day holiday. I must say that this time I am counting down to the Eid break not only for the celebrations but just to be able to step back and relax.

I’ll keep you posted once the holidays are announced but till then why not go through the blog Archieve? You might find something worth spending a few minutes on, or a review of something or the other that you might want to consider.

Catch you later.

Aishelaqtta ايش اللقطه
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Jashn- A celebration called India

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 05:50:00 +0000

You know when you go to a place and have a pre-conceived notion that the place could be the best thing you have ever been to or a complete fail. Well to be honest that was the way I felt heading to this restaurant with my in laws family. I felt a foreboding experience in my gut and literally held my breath till we arrived at Jashn, wanting to impress my family a night before Ramadan! (What was I thinking?)

The place is a true gem.

I am honestly happy to report that as soon as the first accompanying amuse bouche of pani puri without the filled puri I felt that this place is a treasure trove of secrets waiting to be discovered. The little delicate incasing was filled with pickles and accompanying chutney that gave a delicious short and sweet blow to your taste buds and the right balance to your palate as to what’s coming next. I sighed with relief knowing that we were in good hands.

There was never a lack of admiration, appreciation and sheer exhilaration from my party. The endless dished that came out ranging from four cheese malai tikka, mutton seekh parcels, candied batata wada and the star of the night the innovatively created pani puri shots with its accompanying flavored filling ranging from tamarind, yogurt, watermelon, orange. All the while we kept being introduced to an array of drinks that didn’t stop short from being refreshing and completely exceptional.

There is no denying that my taste buds were having a party from all the amazing flavors in every dish, and I would defiantly visit again just to experience the exhilaration and the humbling service we received. I must say that from its actual location and modest décor the staffs at Jashn are exceptionally courteous. I would actually go again in a heartbeat and would not want to deviate from all the selections of food that was presented.

Can you say paratha? OMG!

We were offered an array of saucy dishes accompanied by different paratha…wait I will list them out. There was the mozzarella chicken tikka masala which was so divine and my brother in laws favorite. How can you go wrong with cheese? Then Paneer Lababdar cubes in aromatic, spicy gravy with sautéed onions. Nariyal ka Gosht a Punjabi dish of tender meat in a coconut sauce and finally Peeli Mirch ka Murgh, which is hot bell pepper chicken in a creamy sauce. I am getting hungry as I write this…maybe it wasn’t a good idea to start this review while fasting, but to recall all these dishes is simply a pleasure.

Desert was a different story in itself, with an array of trio hulwa, nutella shahi tukda and the gulab jamun carpaccio tart I don’t think I could do it justice. I will allow the pictures to do the talking, but I will mention the little surprise ending at the end of our meal, which would completely startles you just as the starter amuse bouche did. We were served complementary PAN cotton candy in a little arrangement that melts your heart and taste buds.

If anything Jashn knows how to deliver in every aspect. I loved that the place was a home grown concept, which set itself apart with modern twist to Indian food that can only be seen as innovative. As the Jashn’s website states; “Welcome to JASHN! Indulge in a magical celebration that is sure to please your palate and satisfy your senses!” and that’s the honest truth.

Where is this diamond in the rough? It’s actually located in Al Khuwair directly opposite (inside lane way no.4144) the Safeer International Hotel click here

Aishelaqtta ايش اللقطه
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Ramadan Offers Roundup

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 17 Jun 2015 04:49:00 +0000

Ramadan Kareem

Radisson Blu Ramdan offer @ 15 OMR

The Chedi Iftar @ 21 OMR

InterContinental Iftar special @ 20 OMR/person

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
Iftar buffet at Fairouz Resturant will be priced at OMR 18.000 nett per person.

Grand Hyatt Muscat
Mokha Cafe Iftar Buffet

Iftar buffet include Ramadan juices and laban for OMR 20 per person. Daily from 19:00 to 22:30.

Jalsat Marjan (Marjan Resturant)

Sohour includes traditional Ramadan drinks. Open for sohour from 21:00 to 3:00.

Iftar at The Majlis (Sirj Lobby Lounge)

Iftar buffet priced at OMR 12 per person including traditional drinks such as tamarind, karkadeh and amar el din. Served from 19:00 to 21:00.

More to be added soon.

Aishelaqtta ايش اللقطه
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Catering mOre

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 01 Jun 2015 12:22:00 +0000

I don't know about you but I've always found it a hard task to find good decent catering locally. I know that there are a few options around and now you can add one mOre to the list for those BBQ night and gatherings.

A few blogger enjoyed a games filled afternoon at the mOre Cafe at The Wave which also featured the very delectable food catering options. You can read about the various reviews in Muscat Muttering, Heather's, FatSu's, Life outside the M25 and The Style Cradle's.

If you want to see more pictures then you can link into my instagram account here.

I'll be posting more pictures and giving you a full review soon (just been super busy lately)

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The Corner: City Cinema Shatti

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 May 2015 05:43:00 +0000

The Corner City Cinema in Shatti Plaza is a new concept that has been established to enhance the movie-going experience in Muscat. The addition of New York Fries and Jungle Juice, customers can now enjoy delicious treats, pick their favorite seats and enjoy the latest blockbusters in Shatti Cinema, Oman.

Jungle Juice Oman offer a variety of mixed fruit and veggie juice options plus an added selection of nutrition bars. Get your fix of piping hot bowl of golden NY Fries with your choice of toppings, that will make your movie experience a whole lot better.

If you have a craving for some freshly hand cut fries, and fruit juices then head over to The Corner: Food & More section of the City Cinema Shatti Plaza, to delight your taste buds before getting comfy for your movie experience.

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Qureshi, Royal Taste of India

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 26 Apr 2015 07:40:00 +0000

I have been contemplation how to write this review for a few days now, and somehow every time a structure or angel comes to my mind it doesn’t seem to do this post topic justice. I kept feeling redundant having one word in mind which kept creeping on every time I thought of this food experience, it was simply amazing! Do I sound like a teen-groupie yet?

Honestly, there are no words that could decide the atmosphere and ambience that was brought about by exquisite Indian food created by the Qureshi family which to its own is a legacy of centuries old (220 years old to be exact). Imagine food that was made to transcend all concepts of food and flavoring,plus the notion of what you expect of Indian food. The recipes that have a history so steeped in tradition that the Grand Master Chef Imtiaz Qureshi had passed on to his sons who beamed with pride as they sat at the table answering questions, and cherishing recipes that has been placed in numerous Indian restaurants the world over. A comment made by Chef Ashfaque was that “Qureshi isn’t your typical place, where you can find your commercial Butter Chicken, and hot chilli peppers. It’s a place that brings in originality and a blend of species that are mild but yet just as effective”

I am yet at awe and pure wonderment, as to how each fish presented itself in amazing taste, aroma and texture. We started off with a three piece started featuring; Galouti Kaba( beef), Murg Malai (chicken) and the Avadi (fish). As appetizers I was considering to skip the Baryani and stick to just enjoying these appetizers. The tenderness of the beef, the soft melt in your mouth fish, and the flavored chicken are dishes not to be missed if you decide to visit the Grand HormuzHotel for a dinner at Qureshi, Bab Al Hind.

Moving on to the main dish and I do mean dish since we were bombarded with a variation of Baryani, that you couldn’t catch up with what was being present, or able to decide which Baryani caught your taste buds before being struck by the next. We were presented with the Zeer-E-Multan, which were enhanced with cottage cheese, and marinated in yogurt. Then there was the Veg flavored Biryani and the Murgh Rampur Yakhani, which is chicken based gravy which enhanced the richness of the rice beautifully, his all was followed by the Kachche Gosht Briyani, can someone say silver wrapped lamb?

I literally had no space, but wanted to keep going knowing that the next things to be presented was a selection of desserts, which were the Ghulab Ki Kheer a rice pudding, the Gajar Halwa which was a shredded carrot dessert and the Shahi Takda a condensed milk pudding, there was no way I could pin point a favorite and with each dish having its own delicate taste and hint of flavors. (Actually I can say the Gajar Halwa was my favorite, but then I don’t want to dissuade you from the other dessert choices).

Finally, as we walked out from our completely satisfying experience, there was a small array of after meal condiments that were set to aid in digestion, and truthfully after such a meal I was grateful for the mild assistance that this granted.

If you do get a chance to visit the Hormuz Grand Hotel, then stop over for a meal at Qureshi where they truly do cook Indian food as “The Royal Taste of India”.

Hormuz Grand Hotel Contact +968 2435 0500

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Muscat Airport Parking

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 06:54:00 +0000

Well its about time that something gets done on this regard, and if you don't know the history of this situation, then you can find out first hand from an avid blogger who has mentioned it a few time on his blog Muscat Mutterings (MM-you can know breath a sigh of relief)

As of the latest development there was a 'Public Annoucement' published in various newspapers and media sites announcing the new multi building parking space being constructed at Muscat International Airport.

Sound great to me, but then isn't the airport shifting location, or is my information misplaced in that it would just be "updated" in its current location? Anyone who knows the info can place it in the comments below (being lazy to look it up).

Now the question is, how would this change reflect of parking rates? Currently, the three parking areas charges vary from 300bz to 500bz for short term parking.

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mOre Move

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 06:32:00 +0000

mOre restaurant have closed down operation at the Opera Galleria and have sent out a official notice to its various visitors. They will be relocating within the same vicinity and according to my sources will be closer to the Qurum Commerical Area. Their operations at The Walk, Wave will continue.

WGO online sourced poster

Actually I would miss their location in Opera Galleria, yet I am looking forward to their relocation since it will be more strategically located to my work place, and parents residence...so they wont be hearing any qualms from me.

Can you guess where they are moving to?
I have already seen the sign poster informing people to "expect mOre".

Stay posted on Aishelaqtta instagram and blog to find out mOre!!

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Mozart’s the Magic Flute

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 04:44:00 +0000

Mozart’s the Magic Flute - Interactive Opera for Children

"Children are promised wonderful, unforgettable experience through the operatic show “The Magic Flute” with additional Omani interactive touches perfect for children and families. The opera is produced by AsLiCo; one of the pioneer European theater companies specializing in producing opera projects for the young and discovering new youth opera talents.

Mozart’s The Magic Flute is sure to fascinate the audience with its magical story, wonderful acting, colorful and diverse costumes, mime performances, choir singing, and other rich elements that make up this fantastic production. Mozart’s genius is notably reflected in the wonderful tunes and particularly in the amazing vocal pyrotechni of the Queen of the Night, in addition to great performances by the fairyland (or fantas land) characters. If that wasn’t enough the Royal Opera House Muscat adds Omani flair and an innovative touch by making the show interactive; an experience not to be missed." To book click here

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Sigh of Relief

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 04:29:00 +0000

No one can deny that Oman has breathed a huge sigh of relief for the return of our beloved leader. There are expression of joy and happiness filling the air after a tremendous cloud has been lifted from the country.

Our uncertainty was only enhanced by the non-informative nature of his absence for 8 months, with only one TV address to the citizens during that time. The media was abuzz with speculation as to his health, succession and the future of Oman!

Yet the people of Oman held true and awaited some substantial news and it came like a wind storm on the day that all forms of social media where alight as to his return to the country. Let me just add that social media platforms where a lot more progressive than our local news agency, and before getting an official statement from the Royal Courts Affairs Department.

Nothing could potray the elation felt by adults and children alike, by locals and foreigners living in this countr and by neighboring countries that expressed and shared the joy for Oman. Our love is boundless for a leader that has only set the highest of standards in bringing a country from the dark ages. I believe that no one felt it more than those who have lived to witness the change and progress of stride that Oman has been through. It was confirmed when I heard tears of joy and elation coming from my mother as we sat outside our house looking to the skies to see the helicopters transferring HM from the airport.

For now the celebrations are endless, and the nation will continue to keep that passion and cherished candle alight till we hear from him officially addressing the nation and confirming that he is in good health, and recovered. There is no greater feeling than having a sense of belonging to a country that has been granted a leader that only wants the trust, and enhancement of its people.

May Allah protect HM Sultan Qaboos and grant his good health.

Your people cherish you Baba Qaboos, the father of every Omani living on this land.

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Ethics of....

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 04:23:00 +0000

As a social event blog I do get “invited” when a new menu gets introduced or when a venture opens up. Why? Simply because new and upcoming endeavor have the perception and know-how as to how effective bloggesr are as a marketing strategy. What we provide as bloggers is not influenced by anything other than our choice of writing about a specific event, restaurant or experience. As blogger, social media page and personalities we are here to serve those who follow what we have to say, and keep the “word of mouth” going to enhance local endeavors.

I completely agree with a recent post written by Badermania, in regard to getting "FREE" food for a blogging/social media promotion service. The opinion of other food bloggers resonated true based on the fact that we don’t look for a free meal, and it does not persuade us to write a “good” review based on the invite we received.

I have recently read the comment placed on Oman Restaurant Review, and must be honest that initially I was upset for the admin running the page. Why shouldn’t they be rewarded/invited to review a specific place? The effort placed to maintain the page is tremendous and I felt that no justification should’ve been given since it is.... 1. Their idea 2. Own effort to maintain the page and 3. A validation for the work they have been doing on the social page in keeping it active and interesting.

There are a lot of people who approach me stating how they follow my blog and many others so as to get an honest opinion or to know of a specific business enterprise, or to simply learn about a certain experience. It’s only justifiable that bloggers get a “perk” for the time and effort placed in maintaining this method of sharing information and advertising tool. From time to time and maybe more frequently on other social media pages you as the reader get to share in that experience or get an opportunity to get rewarded too.

It’s all for the love of sharing, recommendation, suggestions and social marketing promotion.

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The Wave Carnival Overview

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 06:34:00 +0000

Ahoy, me Hearties!

I was supposed to get this post out earlier but then if you have been following my instagram profile, then you would've been updated by the various pictures, and some of the live feed videos that's been posted over the past four days of the event.

It was a pleasurable event that was considered as something different for the people of Muscat, and specifically to those residing in Al Hail. To have such a wonderfully entertaining event was the highlight for those residing close to the are, and to those who live close by.

I had the pleasure of going twice to The Wave Carnival!!! I live in close proximity and my children were expectationally excited to witness all that the carnival had to offer. We never made it past 7:30pm both times since they need to be in bed and my younger ones couldn't manage to stay up. Yet they had fun none the less, and nothing would compare to the excitement that I saw portrayed on my younger children faces.

The venue was well organised with ample of parking spaces, and it just seemed have it all as a activity for families. Having the food outlets close at hand visitors were conveniently close to choices of vendors, and choice of setting their own pace as to what they wanted to do.

I must say that I am looking forward to more events from The Wave Muscat, and hoping that this will actually be an annual feature since it has really presented itself as a potential loved activity for residents of the area.

Savvy?

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The Wave Carnival and Extreme Sailing

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2015 05:53:00 +0000

It is going to be a fun filled week for the children and adults alike, look up all details in the posters below and dont forget to share and look up Aishelaqtta on instagram to see more of whats happening in Muscat.

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Earth Hour on March 28

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 05:27:00 +0000

Have you taken the pledge? I did so last year and we spent the hour in darkness and candle lights at my in laws house. The kids loved it and it was a chance to educate them about conserving energy.

The pledge encourages people to switch off essential lighting from 8:30pm-9:30pm (Earth Hour). It is aimed at making people go beyond the 1h, to consider their usage of energy and to conserve in other means possible.

Environment Society Oman (ESO) are arrange a family event on 28th March from 5pm-7pm to be held at the Al Mouj Golf for the young children to attend and experience the hour incentive which will contribute to ingrain the concepts of environmental impact at a young age.

Take the pledge

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Aishelaqtta Ramble

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 06:27:00 +0000

I usually don't cover personal prospective or circumstances on this blog, since its a event social blog allowing the reader to focus on getting to know of something new in the country or of a new venture coming up. (Grab a cuppa govner....this is going to be a long ramble)

Let us just say that I have enjoyed the journey thus far.

I don't know how my fello bloggers feel, but to me truthfully the social media prospective is growing at a snail- like pace in the country. Those who venture into it are overly cautious and apprehensive as to the potential of how such a platform can provide additional benefit to any marketing agenda. I am hoping that an upcoming "project" will allow those reading this page to realise that social media platforms are actually an added advantage to any marketing enhancement. For those who do understand its potential and added benefit; they seem to determine that a certain category of social media personalities are those who will enhance their image yet not realising that the varied demographic of online users are not exposed due to focused social marketing niche.

Social media marketing is not something that will not go away anytime soon, and is considered an effective tool in searching, spreading and retaining information to the general public. Yet in return enthusiasts of social media need to feel that there is an open and accepting environment, and that the services they provide is considered as such. There is a growing number of bloggers, and social media personalities out there, yet as a consumer you would need to determine which of them is an actual best-fit for your promotional strategy.

What am I rambling about? I am just saying that to utilise social media marketing a strategists would need to consider all that is available and the correct exposure that best enhances their marketing strategy or outreach. Anyone can open a blog, or have a social presence but its the quality of what's being provided that makes the difference.

I remember initially getting into the blog world during my years as a university student and then closing down the blog, or at least not making it viewable to the general public since it was getting too personal thus decided to let it go. *breaks into song* Anyhow, I ventured again into the blogging scene wanting to bring something different into the local online community and thus created Aishelaqtta, and I must say that it has been a journey. It has been a year where I met new people, realised the prospects of social media in Oman and experienced new promotional campaigns where it be in restaurants, shops, promotional activities or new incentives.

Note: I am in no way making Aishelaqtta seem that its a complete concept or the best that's out there. I still have allot to learn, and as I've said to many of those who know that I have this platform "its just there to keep me busy, and add something different to my life" -simply an outlet.

Aishelaqtta ايش اللقطه
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20th Muscat International Book Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 07:02:00 +0000

The 20th Muscat International Book Fair held from the 26th Feb to the 7th of March in The Oman Exhibition Center is a diverse cultural event, that cover different aspects such as general cultural shows, usually lectures and seminars, art galleries, poetry evenings and other meaningful cultural events that contribute to the diversity of subjects in addition to multiplicity programs to attract the local visitors to the exhibition.

The main emphasis of this exhibition is to enhance readership among children in which the organizing committee of the exhibition seek to expand the chance to meet individuals and institutions working in this area via collaboration with a number of writers and illustrators, librarians, publishers, educators, narrators, educational and cultural institutions and other experts who work directly with children to pass on to them the passion of reading.

A new feature of this years book fair is a selection of series of short stories for children called “آثار بلادي” tranlsates to the "My Countries Monuments" published by The Ministry of Heritage and Culture issued the children's book, which includes cultural and cognitive content from the Omani environment. The aim in which the short stories will be utalised by the younger generation as a source of information and knowledge to ehnace the awareness about Oman's heritage and culture, and the number of Omani sites listed on the World Heritage List.

Note: Link to website will direct to 2014 Book Fair info, which hasn't been updated in English but all information is available in the Arabic page.

Aishelaqtta ايش اللقطه
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Omani Girls Arrested & Deported!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 04:48:00 +0000

Extract from the Muscat Daily

Four Omani girls arrested, handcuffed and deported by UK immigration after missing their flight

By Shaddad Al Musalmy

Four Omani girls studying in Holland were arrested, handcuffed and deported by UK Immigration and Visas after they missed their flight from Holland to UK and arrived on a different flight.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, the girls said that they were detained at London's Stansted airport after arriving there from Eindhoven in Holland.

They had missed their flight from Eindhoven, and then managed to take another one a few hours later – however, this delay was reason enough for the immigration authorities at Stansted to be suspicious and deport them. The girls, who had planned to be in London on a short break from their studies, also claimed that they were not allowed to contact the Omani Embassy in London for assistance despite repeated requests.

Talking about their London nightmare, Adhraa Said Hamed said, “It all started on Friday, February 13, when we missed our 8.40pm flight to London. So we took the next available flight which was at 8am the next morning. In London, the immigration official checking our papers noticed that arrival date according to the electronic visa waiver was for the previous night. We explained to him that we had missed our flight and had taken the next available flight.”

The four girls were told by immigration officer that they should have arrived within eight hours of the earlier flight. They were then asked to pick up their luggage and detained in two separate rooms where security officials proceeded to search them and their luggage. They were fingerprinted, photographed and told that they were to be deported on the next available flight back to their port of origin, according to Feithla Faisal al Abdul Salam, another of the detained girls.

What I cannot fathom is why would they be deported over a delayed flight, the reason is inexcusable and something that should be considered as "normal" in the airline industry.

Can you imagine these girls shock as to what was happening to them? and their parents dilemma of not knowing the whereabouts of their children?