Nestled on the Eastern tip of the Middle East, near Saudi Arabia, UAE and Yemen is a gorgeous place that I have called home for the past 3 years. The Sultanate of Oman is steeped in rich history and ancient beauty. The Omani tourism board’s motto is “Beauty has an Address.” After the experiences I’ve had around the region, I must say that they got it right.
Here are just a few key ingredients that make up the recipe for why you should visit Oman:
Historic Forts, Castles & Villages
A visit to Oman would be incomplete without visiting some of the architectural masterpiece forts and villages that date back thousands of years in the region. The huge structures showcase the significance of traditional Arabian culture for Oman. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Bahla Fort is a must see, which was built in the third millennium BC featuring apertures for opening fire shows, the historic purpose for defending the area from intruders.
Just under an hour away from Bahla is the Nizwa Fort and Castle, which offers its own distinctive beauty and history of Omani culture. Nizwa, which was the capital of Oman in the past before Muscat took the title, is home to one of the oldest forts in Oman. It is 43 meters high and its’ commanding circular design offers a compelling take on fort structures. The fort is open 9am-4pm Saturday-Thursday and the entrance fee is only $1.50USD. Connected to the Nizwa Fort is the beautiful Nizwa Castle and the traditional souq (market) shopping area where tourist can find beautifully adorned pottery and silver trinkets perfect for souvenirs.
Before departing Nizwa make your way to the historic ruins of Birkat Al Mouz, which sits at the foothill of the famous Jabal Akhdar Mountain or more commonly referred to as “the Green Mountain.” It’s a hidden gem of a location and it is truly unlike any other attraction in the region. It means ‘a pool of bananas’ in Arabic and is reminiscent of the old days in Nizwa. Feel like you are transported back in time when you witness the structures which are made up of old mud ruins, brick houses, banana orchards and date trees which are popular in Oman.
Bahla Fort
Beautiful Beaches Galore
The majestic coastline of Oman stretches over 3,000 kilometers in length. It is home to an array of soft sandy beaches which are perfect for snorkeling, boating, swimming and even collecting colorful shells. Oman boasts beaches overlooking the Sea of Oman, the Straits of Hormuz in the North and the Arabian Sea.
While in the capital of Muscat, the most famous is family-friendly Qurum Beach. Locals and tourist alike go here to cruise down the long golden sandy beach stretch, stopping to have a coffee at the huge Starbucks overlooking the crisp blue waters or lounging at the private beach access afforded to guest at the Crown Plaza. Enjoy a picturesque sunset overlooking the spellbinding shores in the ocean, feeling the crisp breezes as they hit your skin.
If you fancy more secluded landscapes, then dash over to Masirah island or even down to the hidden gem Ras Al Hadd Beach to witness the migration of the turtles laying their eggs at this proclaimed turtle reserve. Beaches in Oman feature high tides, waves and amazing sand that makes them ideal for lounging or hitting the ocean blue for surfing.
A Fusion of Cuisines
Situated in the Muttrah Souq fish market area, Bait Al Luban Omani Restaurant is the premier place for visitors to dine on a selection of traditional Omani food. The complimentary water is infused with traditional Omani frankincense. The 140 year old restaurant is located in a renovated khan or guesthouse. Dine on classical Omani cuisine including papallo, which is locally caught fish infused with tomatoes and turmeric to shuwa, succulent marinated meat roasted in an underground fire pit for over six hours which is sure to melt in your mouth. Enjoy the traditional Omani setting by either sitting on the colorfully adorned cushions or in western seating overlooking the glorious mountains near Muttrah Souq. http://www.baitalluban.com/
An additional fine-dining option for your visit to Muscat is Ubhar located in Shatti Al Qurum, just walking distance to the Royal Opera House. The Omani restaurant boasts an avante-garde menu with a price range from $10 - 30 USD. Visitors must try one of the traditional meats such as camel which is famous to the area. The sumptuous desert options available include pastries made from famous Omani halwa and even frankincense ice cream.
Alila Jabal Akhdar
Luxurious Resorts Abound
While you are in Nizwa visiting the Green Mountain Jabal Akhdar, it would behove you to make a weekend of it and stay at the gorgeous Alilia Jabal Akhdar Hotel. It is located 2,000 meters above sea level atop of the mountainous terrain. Feel like you’re on a roller coaster ride as you twist and turn up the windy road by 4X4 jeep (the only possible way to trek up the road by law).
The green hotel displays sustainable living practices according to LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design), making it ideal for those interested in sustainable tourism practices. Being situated so far above sea level you are bound to see some of the most amazing views here. The nightly rate for a stay at the incomparable Alila Hotel costs between $250-450USD. http://www.alilahotels.com/jabalakhdar
Upon return to the capital city, tourist can enjoy the spectacular beauty of the Shangri-la Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. It is situated just 15 minutes outside of Muscat and well worth the venture. The resort is hidden beyond the rugged mountainous terrain along the Gulf of Oman. It features a host of amenities including an infinity pool overlooking the Gulf, Chi the Spa and loads of restaurants that will make you want to return to Oman for another escape at this beautiful resort. Average nightly rates at the Shangri-la Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa are around $200 for a Superior room at the family friendly Al Waha hotel and $350 for a stay at the more luxurious Al Husn hotel. http://www.shangri-la.com/muscat/barraljissahresort/