SULTANATE OF OMAN, MINISTRY OF TOURISM

SULTANATE OF OMAN, MINISTRY OF TOURISM

SULTANATE OF OMAN, MINISTRY OF TOURISM
Showing posts with label Musandam. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Musandam. Show all posts

Thursday 19 March 2015

Top 10 Awesome Things To Buy In Oman

What are some of the most beautiful things to buy in Oman? What can Oman offer to its visitors?



Oman offers a wonderful range of traditional Arabian products both natural and manufactured, ranging from inexpensive bags of aromatic frankincense and tubs of bukhoor through to elaborately wrought khanjars and chunky Bedu jewellery.

In towns like Mutrah, Nizwa, Rustaq and Salalah, trading is a way of life. The aim is not just to buy and sell, but also to pour coffee, share it with friends and catch up on the news. 

Visitors, too, can take the pulse of an Omani town by exploring its souqs or covered markets, their stalls stacked with incense, produce, spices and antiquesOmanis like to shop in the cool of the evening. To enjoy the souqs at their most lively and atmospheric, visit after sunset.

In this article we will show you the top 10 things travellers can buy in Oman.

1. Frankincense.



2. Pottery incense burner.


3. Omani honey and dates, available in most souq.


4. Hand thrown pottery.




5. Amouage perfume.


6. Traditional craft items (woven baskets, mats, tribal weaving, camel trappings).



7. Khanjar (dagger) - but make sure you check first if you can import this into your country!



8. Bedouin handmade silver jewellery.


9. Replica miniature dhow.


 10. Wooden Mandoos (dowry) chests studded with brass tacks.


What would you buy in Oman? Is there anything else you would include in this list?

Please, take a moment to leave your comment below! 


Thursday 5 March 2015

A Walk Through Oman, One Week Itinerary

Are you having only one week holiday? Are you thinking about your next destination? Well... Have you ever been to Oman?




A journey of discovery awaits you in this welcoming land at the crossroads between Asia, Africa and Western civilisation. Enjoy all of the marvels of this unique setting, the ideal gateway to Southern Arabia.



Would you consider Oman as your next holiday destination? Would you like to see more itineraries suggestions from us?

Please, take a moment to leave your comment below! 


Thursday 19 February 2015

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


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.




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


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.



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! 


Thursday 12 February 2015

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! 



Thursday 29 January 2015

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

Thursday 8 January 2015

Calendar Of Annual Local Events in Oman - September to November

There's so much happening in Oman all year round. Plan ahead with our monthly events calendar. 


September

Turtle Spotting

The best time of year to spot turtles nesting on the beaches of Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz is during September. These turtles migrate to Oman from the Red Sea and East African Coast.

Golf

Due to the climate, golfing in Oman is most popular from the months of September to May. Muscat now has three 18-hole grass golf courses, with more expected to launch in the near future.



October

Another good time to spot respiratory birds such as gulls, terns, warblers and eagles.

National Bank of Oman Golf Classic

The championship course at Almouj Golf, The Wave, Muscat is perfect setting for this promising new European Challenge tournament.


November

Dubai to Muscat Race

Each November, around three-dozen sailing yachts compete in the Dubai to Muscat Race, navigating the Strait of Hormuz en route.


Muscat Regatta

Following the Dubai to Muscat Race, the Muscat Regatta includes two days of competitive yacht and dinghy sailing, followed by a race across the waves from Muscat to Khasab on the Musandam Peninsula.


Oman National Day

Both Sultan Qaboos’ birthday and Oman’s National Day, 18 November is an important public holiday in Oman.

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

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



Monday 8 December 2014

The Best Souks in Oman: A Cultural Experience

Souks and Souvenirs - One of the most beautiful attractions of Oman.


Oman is home to numerous souks. These traditional marketplaces have been an integral part of local life for centuries. Every place has its distinctive flavour and every city has a market that relates its stories, embraces its history and accompanies its evolution.

Both Khanjar daggers and frankincense are prized local souvenirs. Khanjars are handcrafted from pure silver and may cost up to £2,500, depending on age and intricacy. Each one requires the skills of at least three specialised artisans: one each for the dagger, the filigree case and the special leather belt that fastens around the waist.

Visitors to Muscat’s Gold Souk will be dazzled by the displays of jewellery, including many Arabian designs, in 18, 22 and 24-carat gold. Prices are based on the day’s gold rate, the weight of the item and a maker’s fee. Other unique souks include:



  • Sohar Handicrafts, located in Al Hajra region near Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Wilayt Sohar in Al Batinah North Governorate. Craft shops sprawl over an area of 7,000 square metres and the souk houses under one roof various Omani traditional industries and handicrafts, such as leather, ceramics, palm leaves, cotton textiles, wool, gold, silver, as well as perfumes, herbs, natural medicines, honey, Omani sweets (Halwa) and traditional weapons.


  • Al Husn in Salalah, renowned for its traditional Arabian perfumes and frankincense. Al Husn Souq is characterised by its location in the middle of Salalah’s old neighbourhoods in Dhofar Governorate. This souq retains a traditional style with its handicrafts, conventional in their design, shape and function, such as braziers and other traditional handicrafts. Al Husn Souq retains its ancient architectural personality, having preserved the original features of its surroundings, apparent in every corner.



What's your favourite Souk so far?  Have you ever been in any of these Souks? What are other Souks you'd like to visit in Oman?

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

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

Monday 24 November 2014

Introduction To Oman

 A Unique Culture and Stunning Landscapes


The second largest country on the Arabian Peninsula (the same size as Germany), Oman boasts a unique culture and stunning landscapes. Its vast array of natural attractions range from rugged mountain ranges to ochre deserts. Divers, hikers and history buffs all relish the pristine local waters, untouched coastline and labyrinthine souks. The country’s welcoming population greets over 2.5 million travellers per year. And as word of Oman’s wonders spreads across the British press, around 133,000 of those visitors are now from the UK and over 7500 from Ireland (an increase of 10% and 21%).  

Oman’s greatest attraction is its diverse landscape. The peninsula of Musandams majestic fjords skirt the country’s northernmost tip. Further south, Oman is dotted with magnificent desert expanses, towering mountains and virgin sandy beaches. The range of activities available in Oman is equally varied, from canoeing in the Indian Ocean to bird watching and rock climbing. Boat trips to spot dolphins or close encounters with nesting turtles each serve to make a stay here utterly unique.



The country’s abundant cultural and archaeological heritage reflects hundreds of years of foreign influence and international trade. Evidence of this rich legacy is dispersed throughout the country. Oman is home to more than 500 forts, as well as castles, watchtowers and a wealth of ancient cave paintings, not to mention four UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Through deliberate and sustainable development, the country remains firmly rooted in its traditions. A trip to Oman affords the chance to experience the timeless Arabian way of life. Moreover, visitors will revel in the natural beauty of a country that purveys its own brand of low impact tourism.




Home to a wide range of accommodation from five-star resorts to boutique hotels and camps. Oman is an ideal destination for leisure, business, conference and incentive travel. State-of-the-art convention and conference facilities along with first-class air, road and telecommunication networks ensure that any trip to Oman runs smoothly. Visas on arrival are available to citizens of over 50 countries, including UK and Irish passport holders. 

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