Joanna James
Stunning Oman offers a taste of a bygone era, intertwined amidst stark desert environs and shifting golden dunes. Traditions remain the same for all those hankering for an authentic Arabic experience.
One of the best venues in Muscat to experience traditional Omani heritage this museum in located within a fully restored vintage home. Within are displays of old coins, traditional furniture, vintage stamps and a load of conventional handicrafts. The place has grown in popularity over the years to evolve into a hub for Omani arts and crafts events. The gallery plays host to regular exhibits and it's always interesting to check out the schedule. There is also a lovely café for tasting local snacks as well as a souvenir shop that's quite popular amongst all visitors. The Bayt al Zubair is located at Al Saidiya Street and easily reached from your hotel in Muscat.
Marking his 30th year of reign, Sultan Qaboos gifted this monumental mosque to the nation. The place is quite spectacular; equipped with the nation's most elegant prayer room. The second largest handmade carpet in the world adorns this room, measuring 70 metres by 60 metres which by the way took a total of 600 women to weave over a period of 4 years. The huge chandelier is another magnificent feature of this mosque which is about the only one open to non-Muslims. You may not be able to enter all rooms but enough is open for sightseeing, that visitors get a clear view of the entire girth and grandeur of the place.
Stumbling upon the beautiful Sultans Palace complete with stunning gold and blue mushroom pillars is quite a treat indeed. The place is visible from the harbour wall around Mirani Street and is one of the most visited spots by tourists from Al Falaj Hotel and other precincts, mainly for its great photo opportunities. A palm tree lined walkway leads to a courtyard home to some very elegant royal buildings as well as the newly established National Museum. The interiors are closed to the public but many visitors are happy to pose in front of the elegant gates and grounds for some very impressive photographs.
Mutrah Souq is a must visit for anyone hankering for holiday shopping in true Arabic style. The place may be housed under a modern wooden roof, instead of the traditional Bedouin tents but that's where modernism ends. The souq is gloriously steeped in Ancient lures complete with the general hustle and bustle of traditional Arabic markets. Within the souq is a mix of stalls selling antiques, fabrics, jewellery, handicrafts, traditional colourful textiles and much more. Remember to bargain for the best deals. Cash goes a long way, although credit cards are accepted at most outlets.
Built along the same lines as the Grand Mosque the Royal Opera House is resplendent with Arabic designs and huge marble floors. Since its inception in 2011, the place has become a centre for arts and culture in Oman. Catching a show there will prove to be one of the highlights of visiting Oman whilst the place otherwise is a great venue to go sightseeing.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
