Joanna James
With a holiday to Oman around the corner comes the added need to get your basics in order. From understanding its conservative culture to the food, here are 5 travel tips to focus on.
The Omani Rial is the local currency used and is equivalent to 1,000 baisas which is a smaller form of currency. For example, 1 Rial is equal to USD 2.60 and 1.97 GBP respectively while paper notes range from 1 Rial to 50 Rial. In terms of the coins that you will certainly come into contact with, the baisas start from 5 and include 10 and 50 baisas accordingly. When dining at restaurants, foreign nationals can go ahead and tip waiters although tipping is not a customary practice adhered to in Oman.
Do not be put off or shy away from speaking in English with the locals that you meet as English is often resorted to by Omanis. Although Arabic is the country's official language, given the multicultural presence in Oman, languages such as Swahili, Hindi and Balochi are never too far away from being heard and practiced.
Age-old traditions and customary practices are interwoven in Omani culture and likewise, must always be respected, especially by those who have little or no understanding of these beliefs. Omani men wear the 'kummah' which is a traditional cap and 'dishdasha' which is a long piece of cloth that covers the whole body. On the opposite end of the spectrum, women and girls can be seen attired in a black abaya and scarf; the latter item is used in a manner to cover the face. Also, it is not rare to see the womenfolk dressed in colourful dresses and other eye-catching textiles, albeit with a sense of conservativeness. Although foreigners need not abide by the aforementioned, it is still imperative that you dress modestly and not appear in revealing clothing in public places. It is important to bear in mind that any swimwear must be dissuaded from being worn to public beaches as a mark of respect to the locals and their ways.
A selection of salads, traditional bread and meat items including beef, chicken and fish comprise the local cuisine scene. Further, 'kahwa' which is the local brand of coffee is often had with cardamom together with dates and 'halwa' where the latter serves as a marvellous introduction into Omani desserts that must be given a go at least once. Local and international restaurants also offer vegan options with coffee shops known to serve fresh juice and soft drinks to those constantly on the move.
Carefully page through your options when confronted with scheduling a trip to Oman and ideally, reserve a majority of your time and money for the nation's capital, Muscat. The city is the very heart and soul of Oman and projects varying facets that are equally as charming and appealing as the other. A slew of museums, beaches, mosques and parks can be made a part of your itinerary while for an insightful take on the local culture, do head over during January and February. This is when the Muscat Festival takes centre stage with folklore dances, drama and various kinds of fairs and competitions forming part of its extravagance. As you book your airline tickets, pay special attention to accommodation and that too which is a hop, step and a jump to attractions and sites that you may have earmarked. A good and pleasing mode of lodging is Avani Muscat Hotel which is rated among the most sought-after hotels in Muscat Oman to be at.
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.
