Middle East Travel
The Sultanate of Oman one of the safer destinations in the Middle East. Its an Arabic country. It has some great Architecture in destinations like Muscat and when you get fed up of that you can go Scuba Diving. The dive season lasts from September until May you can dive from resorts or from dedicated liveaboard services such as the agressor. You can see some excellent sights underwater including a good chance to see whale sharks at the right time of year. What is the best time of year to see whale sharks in Oman? September and October.
Chances are if you ask a hundred people to name a country where you'll find mountains, luxury camping, and hundreds of years of history, they won't ever answer Oman. Too bad, this place deserves some respect.
While predominantly Muslim, the country of Oman isn't really progressive as much as it is friendly--for everyone. Of course being respectful of its culture goes a long way in ensuring that all visitors will have the most remarkable time.
Beachwear should be left to Oman's magnificent beaches; and modest attire is suggested throughout the rest of the country. As friendly as Oman is, remember that homosexuality is illegal.
Alcohol is also forbidden, so long as you're Muslim. Penalties for drinking and driving in Oman are stiff, a risk no one should be willing to take. With all the taxis, minibuses, and flights around the country--you don't really have to drive.
At the moment there is no rail service in Oman, but a train network should be in place by the end of the decade; making another exciting way to see Oman.
What's to see? Bird-watchers will find some 280 species within the Al-Ansab Wetlands, and the Bimmah Sinkhole (40 meters wide) is worth the climb to jump in its green & blue waters (both, since it mixes both salt and fresh water).
In the capital city of Muscat, you must see the Grand Mosque with its 10 ton chandelier, and its carpet that took 600 women to make as one piece.
Off-roading is big fun in Oman, and 4x4 and jeeps will take you to Wadi Sahtan that's got cliffs and date palms as well. During monsoon season every one heads to Al Mughsayal to see the "blowholes" created by the water.
Exciting as the natural landscape is to see--it also gives us the famous frankincense and myrrh; which can be bought at any one of Oman's souks. Two of the best are found in Muttrah and Nizal--but just about anywhere will do.
Get ready to haggle, and even if you don't speak Arabic (the official language), you'll get by with English, Swahili, Urdu, and Farsi.
Just be cautious when dining out. Most tap water is safe to drink, stick to boiled or bottled; avoiding dairy and street vendor stalls. If you really want to try some local dishes, try schwarma, or if you're really lucky--Shuwa, which is cooked for 2 days underground, usually for special occasions.
Wouldn't you say that visiting an Oryx Sanctuary, sitting under a palm tree eating pomegranates, or riding a camel is special occasion enough?
Maybe its good that not everyone knows the hidden treasures in Oman--this way you get to enjoy it to yourself.
