OMAN – The Unexpected Surprise

25Jan
by Kamila Pala

Beautiful (1700 km) long coast with endless beaches, in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, combined with high mountains, canyons, lush oases and deserts – Welcome to Oman, the country with fabulous hospitality.

GOOD TO KNOW

  • Oman (around 5mil. inhabitants) is the oldest independent state in the Arab world with an absolutely monarchy, all power is concentrated in the sultan 
  • Oman has a free national health service and education 
  • The country has resources crude oil, natural gas, copper mines
  • The country is safe and friendly to visitors

MY TOP MUST – SEE LIST

MUSCAT – capital city with long history. Its modern and traditional architecture has Arab or Portuguese or Indian characters. There are many interesting spots but one of the famous are:

  • Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque –is a unique place and the largest Mosque in Oman
  • Royal Opera house – modern complex (2011) for more than 1100 visitors
  • Mutrah Souk (market) – one of the oldest souks in the Arabic world and offers many things in the endless labyrinth of the small streets

From the capital, you can go to a resort on the beach or take an informed trip to the desert or drive through valleys and mountains. We decided for a little adventure and spent a few days in the mountains which we did not regret.

Across the Western Hajar Mountains, we discovered one of the most interesting places:Jebel Shams, breathtaking Oman’s Grand Canyon; Jebel Akhdar’s special agricultural part with a fruit, rosa and nut plantations which were produced in several small villages! NIZWA –stylish, historical and culture city of Oman with an amazing Fort of Nizwa and local Souk. On the way, we observed a lot of mountain goats, but we did not see the Arabian Oryx (white antelope), which is the national animal of Oman!

A few words about FOOD and DRINKS

If you like fresh fish and seafood, all kinds of lamb, chicken and, as side dishes, excellent fresh vegetable salads, all kinds of rice and local pancakes – then you are in the right place. You will immediately recognize the influence of Arabic, Persian and Indian cuisine. The national drink is traditionally prepared coffee and served in special pots, but those who like tea can also choose. By the way, alcohol is strictly prohibited for Omanis, foreigners can order it in some tourist hotels and restaurants that have a license, but it is relatively expensive.  But sitting at shisha with a quality coffee and big bowl of dates is just as, if not more pleasant after a meal.

 YOU CAN BE HERE – The best time to visit Oman is in the period from November to April, when the temperatures vary from about 19 to 28 degrees that is pleasant both for swimming and trips to the desert or mountain hikes. But if you want to treat yourself to an experience – diving with sea turtles, the guide recommends the time period – April to August, when thousands of turtles go to the beaches of Oman to lay their eggs. Unfortunately, we went there at the end of the year and couldn’t be a part of this immaculate experience!

22 thoughts on “OMAN – The Unexpected Surprise”

    1. Kamila Pala's avatar

      Kamila Pala

      Thank you Hans, and I am pleased you liked my small “presentation” from Oman! I was surprised how interesting places this country has! Happy New Year and enjoy weekend. Bye. Kamila

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