8 Things Everyone Must Do When Visiting Muscat

What are the best activities to do while visiting Muscat? What are the best ways to pass your time in there?

Whether seeking to indulge on a gorgeous beach vacation, get involved in a number of unique adventures or discover cultural wonders, the treasures of Muscat will not disappoint you. 

There are a broad selection of things to do in the capital of Oman. Here we take a look at some of the things everyone must do and experience when visiting Muscat.

1. See the Sights

Mirani Fort and Jalali Fort, both built in the 16th century by the Portuguese.

Flickr: - Reji / Via: Flickr

Flickr: Robert Tyabji / Via: Flickr

Al Alam Palace, a vision in turquoise mosaic and gold leaf. 

Flickr: Tristan Schmurr / Via: Flickr

2. Hit The Souq

Muttrah Souq, a maze of tiny winding streets.

The best buys: aromatic frankincense, silver charms and spices.

3. Go To The Beach

Qantab, a beautiful tourist - free beach.

Flickr: Bilal Sarwar / Via: Flickr

4. Go Diving or Dolphin Watching

Unspoilt water and unique marine life.

See these friendly creatures in their natural habitat.

5. Experience The Luxury and Glamour

The Chedi, one of the region's most luxury hotels.

6. For a more contemporary Shopping Experience

Shop at The Mall, pick up a bottle of Oman's favourite perfume, Amouage.

7. Indulge in Gourmet Food

La Sultanah, feel plush and elegancy.

www.shangri-la.com/muscat

8. Celebrate With The Locals

Oman's National Day 18 November. Camel races, traditional dancing and lights shows.

It's easy to find all the must - see Muscat sights by looking at the most popular Muscat attractions in any travel guide of Oman. We have selected here some of them but the diversity of choices are endless. 

For anyone who has visited Oman. What was the most beautiful, incredible sight you saw while there? What are your recommended places to visit and activities to do while in Muscat?

Please, take a moment to leave your comments or thoughts below!

  Beauty has an address ~ Oman   

You Need To See These Magical Coastlines in Oman

Where are the Oman's greatest coastlines? Do you love to spend time by the shore?

With is long, quiet beaches, tropical bays in the shade of palm trees, towering cliffs that drop into the ocean and 3,165 kilometres of coast, Oman is the ideal destination for anyone who loves to spend time by the shore.

From Muscat, the coast is sandy, with a calm sea and long stretches of beach boasting a wealth of facilities and water sports opportunities. To the north, Musandam Peninsula is famous for its dramatic fjords plunging into the sea to create spectacular inlets and coves. To the south, the Salalah region is full of banana plantations and tropical beaches with turquoise water and palm trees bordering the golden sands. 

The Oman Sea and Arabian Sea host a huge variety of animal species such as turtles, whales and dolphins, while their depths are home to coral reefs, long stretches of which are still intact. 

In this article we will show you what traveller can expect from the Omani Coast

Enjoy the coast in Muscat 

The vibrant capital city of Muscat is blessed with many beaches and a calm sea suitable for year-round swimming. A large number of outstanding tourist facilities makes it an ideal base for visitors who want to combine relaxation by the sea with exploration of the country’s inland regions.

The most popular public beach is Qurum, just a short distance from the city centre.

Bandar Khayran, a bay that is a popular snorkelling spot .

A trip to the Dimaniyat Islands Nature Reserve is another must-do experience, particularly for diving enthusiasts.

Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi along the coast of Sur, also enticing snorkelers and divers.

Appreciate the picturesque seaside of Sur and Ras Al Hadd 

Local fishing boats, souks and museums, is a great base for exploring Oman’s rich maritime history.

Visit some of the dhow shipyards in Sur to marvel at the craftsmanship and reflect on modern innovation and development.

www.bradtguides.com

Adore Salalah and Dhofar 

A completely different side to Oman can be found in the far south of the country. Gorgeous sandy bays lie between crystal-clear water and lush green palm groves. 

In the town of Salalah you can see tropical fruit plantations and stalls loaded with coconuts, bananas and mangos. It is the perfect place to sit back and relax.

Admire Musandam 

The best way to appreciate the rugged, fjord-like terrain of the Musandam Peninsula is to view it from the sea. 

In Khasab, half- or full-day trips include dolphin watching, snorkelling and kayaking can be organised on a traditional Omani dhow. 

These are only part of the magnificent coastline of Oman. Its difficult to capture their splendour through images, you must go there to see them. 

The serene environment and the gravel beach is something that one should be looking for. Watching sunset in some of these coastlines would be one of the most peaceful moments of your life.

What are your favourite beaches location in Oman? Would you add any of them on your holiday bucket list?

Please, take a moment to leave your comment below! 

Beauty has an address ~ Oman   

The Very Best Of Oman (New Infographic)

Thirsty for adventures? 

Whether you want to chill out on the coast, camp under the stars, unwind in supreme luxury or simply enjoy the winter sun, each Oman's geographical regions has something unique to offer. 

With pristine beaches, magnificent deserts, rugged mountains and a history that spans over 5,000 years, the Sultanate of Oman will refresh, engage and inspire you. Not sure where to start? Here are some suggestions to help you plan the perfect itinerary. 

Do you like to feel close to nature? Do you love luxury, elegance and style?

Please, take a moment to leave your comment below! 

Beauty has an address ~ Oman

This Is How Your Next Kite Boarding Destination Looks Like

What’s your favourite kite boarding destination? What's going to be your next one?

 

Although relatively new, the Sultanate of Oman have developed fast as a kite boarding destination.

What makes Oman an amazing spot for kite boarding?


1. Stable and consistent wind.

Daily wind above 20 knots, 28 degrees air, all kind of spots within a short drive – shallow lagoon (8 sq-km) and waves. From May to September, the wind statics are truly remarkable on the island of Masirah.

2. Unspoilt natural environment

It's not uncommon to see flamingos and loggerhead sea turtles side by side in the unspoilt habitat.

3. Very few people kitting on the beaches

The island of Masirah it the south-east of the country is a haven of calm with a gentle Indian Ocean sea breeze blowing through it.

4. Great kite boarding & kite surfing lessons

You can learn kite boarding in a very short time and will be amazed by how fast you will love it. With kiteboarding-oman proved and tested schooling system you will get to know your new favourite sport fast and safely. 

5. Superb instruction, equipment, and service

Training is available at the centre and equipment can be hired by experienced kite surfers. There is another branch of the school on Sawadi beach which is an hour north of Muscat.

6. You won't need to walk when you can fly

Kite surfing harnesses the power of the wind to propel a rider across the water on a small surfboard or a kite board. 

7. Stunning travel experience

The island of Masirah is five - hours drive from Muscat and it has a kite surfing centre that is part of the VDWS Water Sport Association. After your holiday you could travel back along the coastline of Oman. This will provide you an even more stunning travel experience.

Would you consider Oman as your next kite boarding destination? Why does kite boarding makes you happy? 

“There’s a feeling of freedom, exhilaration, and oneness with nature that comes from kiting”

                       Richard Branson

Please, take a moment to leave your comment below! 

Beauty has an address ~ Oman

13 Spectacular Places You Must Visit In Oman

Why is Oman called the land of scenic beauty? What are some recommended places to visit and activities to do while in Oman?

"As-salaamu alaykum", and welcome to the enchanting Sultanate of Oman. Safe and inviting, Oman will hypnotise you with its fragrant ancient souks, mesmerise with dramatic landscapes and leave you spell bound with its stories. Home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Oman is steeped in history and has inspired some of literature’s most famous tales. 

In this article we will show you why Oman is called the land of scenic beauty. You will discover some recommended places to visit and activities to do while in Oman.

1. Royal Opera House

Royal Opera House, Muscat (iwillbehomesoon/500px)

2. Forts and Castles

Nakhal Fort (beautyeye/flickr)

3. Muthra

Mutrah (Krishna Kumar/flickr)

4. Scuba diving

(Thierry Rouchon/flickr

5. Al Ayn Village, Jabel Al Akhdar

Al Ayn Village, Jabel Al Akhdar (internationaltravllermag.com)

6. Caving

Ash Sharqiyah (pierrehaut/flickr)

7. Mountain Goat

Mountain Goat (Krishna Kumar/flickr)

8. Musandam

Musandam (panoramas/flickr)

9. Deserts

(oman-conference.squ.edu.om)

10. Salalah

Salalah (saf eins/flickr)

11. Terraces of rose bushes in Jabal Akhdar

Terraces of rose bushes in Jabal Akhdar that thrive in spring/summer (timesofoman.com)

12. Wadi Bani 

Wadi Bani Khalid (andries3/flickr)

13. Wadi Darbat, Salalah

Wadi Darbat, Salalah (wajahatmahmood/flickr)

For anyone who has ever travelled to Oman, what was your favourite thing that you saw, and why? What was the most beautiful, incredible sight you saw while there? 

Please, take a moment to leave your comment below! 

Beauty has an address ~ Oman

Best Golfing Escapes In Oman

Are you planning your next Golfing Escape and want to try a different destination? 

Check out what the possibilities are in the Sultanate of Oman!

The best time of the year for Golfing in Oman is between September and May, avoiding the Kareef season. 

Oman currently has three 18-hole golf courses in Muscat which are considered some of the finest and most challenging in the region: Almouj Golf, following the outline of the dunes along the Sea of Oman; Ghala Valley Golf Course, found in the unique setting of a wadi; and Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club in a craggy terrain crisscrossed by a number of wadis, with the Hajar Mountains in the background.    

There are golf tournaments organised by the courses so have a look at their websites to keep you up to date!

If you are in the early stage of learning the game, each course also has an Academy staffed by qualified golf instructors who will be happy to guide you through the early stages.

Travelling with family is not an issue in case not all members are into golfing. The whole family can stay at one of the several 5* and boutique hotels and resorts where they can go for a spa session, enjoy the swimming pools, experience diving in Oman or go on a tour of the mountains, desert, Nizwa, dolphin watching… etc

Golfing in the Sultanate of Oman… a unique experience in a breathtaking surrounding.

Please, take a moment to leave a comment below.

Discover more about Oman: www.omantourism.gov.om