Joanna James
A holiday in the quintessential country of Oman is a worthwhile experience as there is fine architecture, natural beauty and a nation of friendly conservative people. As you go about in Oman creating pleasant memories be mindful of making your visit equally pleasant to your host nation.
As travellers, we must be respectful of the culture and traditions of our host country, as an Islamic nation Oman appreciates modesty in dress. Keeping the shoulders, chest and legs covered demonstrates respect for the nation. Loose-fitting garments rather than tight-fitting clothing are preferable. When entering a place of worship such as a mosque ladies must cover their heads and men must be in trousers. No sleeveless garments, tank tops or tight-fitting clothing to be worn in public places.
Considered a serious crime in Muscat, even as visitors we must not indulge in a public display of affection. (PDA). This is so if you hold hands even when visiting an Omani restaurant in Muscat, a shopping mall or even when you are at the beach with your partner. As a Conservative Islamic nation, PDA is abhorred and laws are very strict. In fact, at many malls and parks, one can see notices to the effect displayed.
Showing frustration, anger, swearing and even offensive gestures are frowned upon in Oman. Some of these actions are against the law and Omanis are law-abiding citizens and will not tolerate such from visitors. Therefore, as visitors to this country, it is prudent to remember wrong facial expressions, impatient gestures and voices raised in anger are unacceptable when you are in Oman. As visitors at places such as Avani Muscat Hotel, you may sometimes receive lingering stares from locals, however in Omani culture staring is not considered impolite, it is merely a sign of curiosity.
Omani people love to get together with their friends and loved ones to exchange happy and sad news, it is their way of bonding and socializing. You can witness these gatherings even on the streets at times. They will keep chatting noisily which can be a disturbance to you if you happen to be in the vicinity. Understand this aspect of their culture and appreciate it. When Omanis accompany the vehicle of a new bride and groom, rather than tooting the horn they flash the lights of the car as generally they appreciate peacefulness over making noise when driving. So practice understanding their ways and manners.
Omanis are gentle and friendly people and they can make great friends if you understand and respect them and their ways. One must never insult their religion which is Islam. During the holy Ramadan period when the Omanis perform the fasting period, eating, drinking, smoking, playing music loud and dancing in public places during the daytime is forbidden and is punishable by law. They also can misunderstand your intentions if you suddenly start clicking photographs near government buildings, airports or military sites, please check before you do it. Omanis also have great respect for their Sultan and the family, discussing him and the family in an ill manner will offend Omanis.
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.
