Oman. A small Arabian country surrounded by mountains and a pristine coastline. The perfect destination to enjoy cool ‘wadi’s (rockpools), white sand beaches, tasty food and enjoy welcoming Omani hospitality.
You can find some of the best diving in the world in these parts, explore some historic old bazaars and discover forts without the hassle of thousands of tourists.
Oman only opened up to tourism over the past decade, yet with so much space in this country, you’ll find you have the place to yourself. We don’t think this will last too much longer.
# Great CoffeeLocals enjoy their coffee served strong and often flavoured with cardamom. Turkish coffee is a popular option too. Be sure to order a small Arabic sweet with your coffee, the sweets here are sensational.
# Delicious DatesDate palms are literally everywhere! Oman has endless date plantations with more than 250 different varieties. Dates are usually served with coffee and it’s traditional to greet a guest with both. Dates are also prepared as a spread (datella) to be enjoyed with bread.
Locals enjoy their coffee served strong and often flavoured with cardamom. Turkish coffee is a popular option too. Be sure to order a small Arabic sweet with your coffee, the sweets here are sensational
# No High-RisesThere are no high-rises in Oman. The country has a no-skyscraper policy – a good move in my opinion. This is great to see in the towns and villages as it helps the country to retain its traditional charms and unique architecture.
# Muscat is a clean, well-organised cityMuscat is one of the cleanest capitals in the world. This extends to the rest of the country and it seems the people take great pride in keeping it clean and tidy for themselves and visitors alike.
With the no-skyscraper policy and long trading history, Muscat is still a busy port city.
# Incredible adventuresSet off for an adventure in the desert at Wahiba Sands: Book a dune-bashing tour, go camel trekking or book a night in a desert camp (we stayed at Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp). Here you can enjoy starry skies and traditional Omani food.
# NatureOman is a haven for eco-tourists. The people look after nature and the animals living in it too.
Untouched coastlines are abundant with marine life in coral reefs, whales and dolphins. Visit the Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve in Dhofar to see wild Arabian leopards.
# Turtle HatchingCoordinate a trip here between July and October to see Oman’s amazing turtle hatching season. Stop by for an evening watching green turtles nesting at Al Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.
Each year, 20,000 sea turtles lumber up onto beaches to bury up to 60,000 eggs.