Holiday indoors unleashes people’s creativity
Although it came as a refreshing four-day National Day holiday break, most people across Oman were forced to spend the time at home. With parks closed, beaches declared out of bounds, gatherings limited, strict border restrictions in place and cinemas shut, there were not many entertainment options.
However, the restrictions could not dampen the enthusiasm of some people who found creative ways to spend the holiday.
Vikas Nair, who works for a PR company, said, he always looks forward to the National Day holidays to enjoy with his family outdoors. “We travelled to Dubai in the last few years but now it is bit tough and also expensive. Our colleagues were not keen to host us in these tough times either.
“But we had an evening barbecue in the small backyard. With my daughter’s culinary skills, it was a good time for me to have a crash course in grilling.”
Mohammad Salem, an accountant, said he is not an outdoor man but for family’s sake often goes to theatres or parks.
“However, now with everything closed I found time to finish some pending house work like repairs. I also sat down with my wife and discussed the family budget, son’s higher education and future vacation plans.”
He said in the evening they watched comedy movies on TV.
Along with cooking and watching movies, another favourite ‘time-pass’ has been long drives. Saeed al Musalmy took his SUV and drove the rough terrains of Jebel Akhdar.
“Who needs to stay at home or even be dependent on standard vacation options like parks and beaches? I took my family in the car and had a long drive. I also made sure to show my children the natural beauty of Oman. We stopped often for the view, take selfies and eat at random places.”
While families had a good time, bachelors too found creative ways to spend the holiday.
Shoaib Yonus, who lives in Ghubra, said he tried a completely new thing. “I decided to make a short film at home with two friends. We are not experts. But I checked some tutorials on YouTube and also consulted my friends in the business through WhatsApp and finally shot a film.”