Oman OVERVIEW
When one buys a pot from a local Bahla craftsman, one simply feels compelled to rub it hoping for a genie to come out and grant the wishes, just as everyone goes in search of a unicorn in the mists of the Jallluni oryx sanctuary. And regardless of whether you find the legends cheesy or viable, Oman is this unique place in the region that has carried out its transformation into a modern oil state with particular esteem for traditional Arabian values, keeping a healthy balance between the renaissance heritage and cutting-edge conveniences that come courtesy of its privileged location.
Muscat may have its dazzling Crowne Plaza Hotel presiding over the capital territory but high-rise buildings and glossy shopping areas are scarce. Instead the laid-back atmosphere of an Indian Ocean town is enriched with the ceremonial premises of His Majesty Sultan (Al Alam Palace), two meticulously restored medieval forts (Jalali and Mirani), and two exceptionally worthwhile museums (Bait Zubair and Bait Al Baranda). If you look for splendor, Muttrah Souq has the glitz of high carat gold and shimmering textiles. Follow it with an after-dark stroll along the floodlit corniche and you'll no doubt admit you've experienced Islamic culture at its best-deeply rooted in the Muslim tradition but devoid of that fearful radicalism that scares many a tourist away.
Outside Muscat, the sweet-scented date plantations of Misfat compete with the oleander-blooming valleys of Dayqah and the frankincense-covered hillsides of Dhofar, groups of camels roam the limitless patches of sand dunes in the Sharqiya region, mountain villages abut lonesome canyon walls, and green turtles nest up close in Ras Al-Jinz. Unwind on the beautiful beaches of Sur, drive up to Jebel Shams and capture the flabbergasting view down low, witness the absolutely stunning manifestation of natural grandeur in the Al Hoota cave system, and don't tell us you've been bored coz we ain't gonna buy it.
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