Joanna James
The city of Muscat is located towards the southeastern end of the Gulf of Oman on the Arabian Peninsula. Muscat is the entryway to the Sultanate of Oman and is a lively city with markets, historical buildings and beautiful structures.
Mutrah Souq is a favourite spot for many locals and ex-pats. One can experience a thriving maze of small shops showcasing items like Omani silver, khanjars, traditional jewellery, frankincense, pashminas, textiles, old furniture, knickknacks, and elaborately carved doors. You will be amazed at how much there is to discover, so reserve a full morning or afternoon to visit the souq. You can bargain for all items, but keep in mind that the price of silver fluctuates daily, so when buying silverware, note that the prices will change daily.
Located near Mutrah Souq is Sur Al-Lawatia. It is a quartered-off section where the Al-Lawatia is an ethnocultural community of affluent traders living in Muscat. It contains attractive townhouses built according to the traditional Arabian design with covered balconies and vaulted entryways. The secret quarter used to be sealed at night and remained prohibited to outsiders. However, at present, it's not off-limits for outsiders, but ask the gatekeeper before going inside and looking around the place.
Constructed by the Portuguese in 1580, Mutrah Fort has a flight of 250 to reach the summit— there are quite a few viewpoints to catch a break and admire the beauty of the surroundings. There are some fantastic views overlooking the city and the bays to gauge what it may have been like before the Portuguese came and fortified the mountains and cliffs with ramparts and watch-out towers.
Located lm ess than an hour away from Avani Muscat Hotel, Al Alam Palace or the "Palace of the Flag" is located in Oman's Old Muscat. Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said took over in early 2020 after the demise of much-loved Sultan Qaboos bin Said. There are several palaces belonging to the Sultan around Oman, but this modern palace dates back to 1972 and is the only Palace allowed for public viewing. The premises is flanked by Portuguese forts going back to the 16th century and is one of the best attractions in Muscat for visitors. You can find hotels in Muscat within easy reach of this attraction.
Of all the attractions in Oman, the Bimmah sinkhole is one you cannot afford to miss, especially when journeying from Muscat to the south. As the tale goes, a falling star created the sinkhole thousands of years ago. Swimming here will make you feel one with the earth as it is a truly spectacular creation of mother nature. There are steps to lead you to the base, or if you are feeling adventurous, just dive in! But be careful as the depths of the sinkhole are not exactly known.
Tawi Atair Sinkhole is translated into 'well of birds', and this enchanting sinkhole has honeycombed limestones. A guide can take you right down to the bottom to discover its beauty. It's the third largest sinkhole on earth!
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.
