Joanna James
The capital and the gateway to the vast Sultanate of Oman, Muscat is a true testament to bygone Arabia and provides captivating insights into a rich heritage, idyllic natural beauty and more modern marvels. Treat yourself to an experience like no other, amidst a fascinating mix of old and new.
Oman is hardly ever spoken of when it comes to snorkelling, but exploring the waters of the peninsula country would never be in vain, thanks to the many brown-toned denizens of the deep — the fascinating sea turtles that frequent the Gulf of Oman. Just like the nation’s unsung allure for snorkelling, Oman isn’t known as a prime turtle nesting spot either. What is worth keeping in mind is that the country is a haven for over 20,000 turtles that lay nearly 70,000 eggs every year — making this destination a prime nesting spot in its own right. Complemented by crystal-clear waters, year-round sunshine and striking coral reefs — snorkelling in Muscat is bound to be nothing but delightful.
If there’s one thing that draws the crowds to Mutrah Corniche, it is undoubtedly its eponymous souk. Mutrah Souq; with its unique atmosphere and colourful chaos, it is where you should go to enjoy the quintessential experience of a traditional Arab market. Stroll the bustling alleyways, browsing through the traditional textiles, hardware, jewellery and other interesting merchandise and pick anything that tickles your fancy to take back home.
The largest mosque in all of Oman and the crown jewel of the capital, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an unmissable tourist attraction on every Muscat itinerary. The sacred place of worship is a glorious piece of modern Islamic architecture, bathed in magnificence, where each element is more sensational than the other; these range from the spectacularly embellished dome to the massive 70 by 60 metre-wide hand-loomed Persian carpet. The sheer size of the mosque is just as impressive as the architectural beauty itself, where a mind-boggling 20,000 worshippers can be accommodated at once.
As the sun goes down and a profusion of yellowish oranges colour the sky in a myriad of hues, hop aboard a traditional dhow and set sail into the wide-open seas on an exciting sunset cruise. It provides a great way to explore the scenic coast that borders the city of Muscat and view this destination from a different perspective.
While the things to do in Oman may be plentiful, not many activities the Gulf nation has to offer could compare to the fun and exhilaration that a trip to the Wahiba Sands affords, especially for those in search of desert adventures. Around a two-hour drive away from Muscat, this vast desert area is also a great place to stay at properties like Desert Nights Camp where one can enjoy dune bashing, sandboarding, desert drives, sunrise and sunset camel safaris and more.
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.
