Joanna James
Renowned for its stunning souks and plentiful seafood, Oman's port city, Muscat has much to offer the intrepid traveller. Read on to discover why you should make Muscat your next travel destination.
While Omani cuisine faces no dearth of succulent grilled meats, delicious hummus and filling flatbreads, Muscat distinctly remains a city of seafood enthusiasts. Notable delicacies from the sea include gigantic lobsters, kingfish, grilled tuna, and jumbo prawns usually served freshly grilled or simmered in a broth of turmeric, garlic, coconut, and ginger. To indulge in a fresh seafood platter brimming with the catch of the day, why not head to one of Muscat's top restaurants or a resort such as the likes of Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara?
Daggers and swords play a fundamental part in Oman's rich heritage so much so that it enjoys pride of place in the state flag. Today, while modern Omanis are slowly moving away from the custom of wearing the khanjar in their day-to-day lives, craftsmanship remains revered. To take in historical weaponry ranging from grand pearl-embossed straight swords to blades inscribed with verses from the Quran, why not visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum- a standout among Oman attractions?
During Oman's Sultan - Qaboos' 45-year rule, he lent his wealth and patronage to a number of the capital's finest buildings and constructions - the grandest and most impressive being the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – which features 4 turrets and a 50 m -high golden dome and white markable flooring. The prayer hall for men which can also be viewed by women is decorated with some incredible chandeliers and Persian carpets. When visiting, female visitors are required to cover themselves from the collarbone to below the knees and wear a headscarf to conceal their hair, while male visitors need to be dressed in long sleeves and pants.
The souqs of the Middle East are fascinating places to explore! Alive with exotic sights, sounds and the heady aroma of spices and frankincense perfuming the air, Muscat's Muttrah Souq does not disappoint. While navigating your way through a maze of precious jewellery, delicate ceramics, leatherware, and soft wool pashminas, why not take the opportunity to test your bartering skills? Do keep in mind that when it comes to purchasing gold jewellery, there is less wiggle room as it is offered by weight. When it comes to bartering in Muscat it's always a good idea to start your offer at around 40 to 50 per cent of the shopkeeper's opening cost and aim to meet somewhere in the middle. Keen to do some people-watching? Consider making it to Muttrah Souq after 5 pm – which is when locals venture out for shopping.
In Oman, locals welcome visitors to their homes with delicious sticky dates and aromatic cardamom-scented coffee! When it comes to dates Oman is home to over 35 types to choose from. Types range from caramel-like Khales to the lesser sweet Farth dates.
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.
