Lucie Aurore
Oman is just an hour's flight form Abu Dhabi or Dubai where you can savour deep cultural and traditional roots. Enjoy modern comforts of Muscat while must see cultural heritages are no to be missed.
Book yourself a desert crossing tour. This way you can cross the Wahiba sands in a 4X4. Enjoy the exhilarating ride as you soar over the shifting sand dunes. Go one step further and book yourself a desert safari tour. These tours include a 4X4 safari and a night at a traditional desert camp. Enjoy the modern comforts in traditional Bedouin villages. Watch out for the gorgeous sunsets and enjoy the exotic cuisine.
If you are staying at a luxury Muscat hotel the tour desk will conveniently organise a desert tour, where pick up and drop off facilities can be easily organised.
Of the 500 forts spread across Oman, the Nizwa Fort is the most impressive. Over 400 years old the largest fort inArabia the Nizwa has been restored to its glory days. Climb to the summit of the fort and you will see the ports where in ancient situations of war hot oil was poured on the advancing enemies.
Getting back to the fascinating art of shopping the Nizwa Souk is a foremost attraction. For a taste of culture wander around the market on a Friday - before prayers - for this is when livestock trading takes place. Watch as merchants bid and haggle over camels, goats and other livestock. Apart from this the souk is ideal for buying incense, incense burners, pottery, sandalwood, furniture and other interesting souvenirs.
Travel to the city of Salalah to the south of Oman and you will love the cooler climes. June and September sees an influx of visitors to Salalah as the monsoon season makes the city pleasantly cool and enjoyable. Adding to the soothing ambiance is the fog that rolls in from the mountains. A favourite day trip from there is to set off to the Lost City of Ubar.
The lost city was only a legend that was thought to have existed over 3000 years BC. However thanks to modern technology the city was discovered in 1992. Still under excavation Ubar City was a well-established desert nation consisting of an impressive fortress. There are many unearthed artefacts here such as pottery and relics that date back to over 3000 years.
A bustling city, Muscat is an intermingle of old and new. Home to some of the world finest hotels and fabulous eating options Muscat is your first impression of Oman. Enjoy the exotic and delicious cuisine, consisting of kebabs, roasts, stews and Indian bread. Dining in Muscat is a sensory treat; you will love the traditional interiors of the restaurants while enjoying a belly dance or relaxing at a shisha lounge. For a great choice in international cuisine Check out the Al Falaj Hotel in Muscat; home to the Souq Café, Tokyo Taro and Lounge restaurants.
