Oman is a treasure trove of natural lagoons, pristine wadis and beaches that are on par with the Mediterranean.Ī 40-minute boat ride from Muscat takes you to Al Daymaniyat Islands, which are known for night camping - and if you’re lucky, glowing planktons. Azure waters, natural pools and plankton spotting But, there’s no shortage of modern amenities.įrom the lavish promenades of Al Mouj dotted with luxury yachts, to upscale French patisseries and some of the swankiest five-star hotels, expect to be spoiled for choice. Every corner of the city echoes legendary tales of the late Sultan Qaboos. Instead, you’ll find low-rise, white-washed architecture with a distinctive Omani feel. Muscat is a refreshing change from the glitzy, hyper-modern skyscrapers that dominate most of its neighbours in the Middle East. On the contrary, the country’s charm is more than what meets the eye. Yet, it’s often under-appreciated and overlooked by Indian travellers, many of whom may write it off merely as a place of work and business. Oman and India have a connection that dates back to antiquity. Discovering Muscat A closer peek Promenades of Al Mouj. Sure, we would occasionally be greeted by herds of camels, but never by a bumpy road. With swanky roads, manicured gardens, veterinary hospitals and well-equipped gyms - one could hardly call it a village. You’re in the deep interiors of the country.” We were bang in the middle of, what can be best-described as, the poshest villages I’ve encountered. A few hours into our journey, I asked the driver, “When will we be out of the city?” He quickly responded, “Madam, the city is long gone. Sometime in the midst of our trip, we drove down to the outskirts of the capital. In reality, the city was a hushed secret bursting with an unimaginable wealth of attractions. Predictably, our plan to holiday in Muscat raised many eyebrows amongst friends and family. While the rest of the country flocked to Vietnam, my family and I sought a more under-the-radar destination.
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