25 October 2015
Muscat: Today we have a #OmanPride contribution all the way from Belgium. Twenty-five-year-old Charlotte Coene from Belgium, has sent us an article entitled, "The countless charms of Oman," along with pictures of Oman.
She wrote to us saying, "I have travelled many times to Oman and it has become one of my favourite destinations. This year, I decided to collect my stories and photographs from travelling to Oman and write an article about it. I would feel very honoured if you share the article as a contribution to the #OmanPride campaign. In this way, I hope to spread my love for Oman to many, many more people and motivate them to travel there someday. Hope to be back soon in Oman.
"The Sultanate is an idyllic destination, located in the southeastern section of the Arabian Peninsula. Sadly, it often remains in the shadow of nearby Emirates, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. But Oman greatly contrasts with its neighbouring countries and their expensive splendours. Oman's skyline consists of traditional white houses against the backdrop of rugged mountain tops, where hidden forts and wadis are to be found. It is situated on a pristine coastline and includes a vast desert, thus being an ideal place for lovers of the Arab culture and atmosphere.
"In late December 2014, I hopped on a plane heading to Muscat, the capital of Oman, and also my second home. I had become used to the customs officer's smile on discovering the many stamps in my passport from previous trips to Oman.
"I have to admit, once you have been touched by the authentic charm of Oman, it will never let you go. Let me try to take you on a quick tour of the most beautiful spots in Oman, even though it remains difficult to capture in words a place so close to the heart.
Since the 15th century, Oman has been at the crossroads of maritime routes between Europe and the East. The Omanis traded with different nationalities, offering frankincense as their main export product, with the southern province of Dhofar being the cradle of the frankincense trade.
Attracting tourists
Only after 1970, when His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said came to power, did the country witness major changes. This well-loved man greatly improved Oman's infrastructure and prepared Oman for tourists.
Also, the country's oil and gas reserves looked promising for a wealthy future, but this is about the only similarity with other Arab countries in the region.
Why is Oman considered to be so special? That's probably because, despite big improvements, it never lost its own cultural identity. Both young and old are proud of their traditions. Men often wear the traditional dishdasha (cotton robe) and kumma (a kind of hat), or turban. The khanjar, an engraved dagger made of silver, is strapped on a colourful belt on special occasions.
Welcoming to tourists
Women mostly dress in a black abaya, and in some places their face mask tradition has been preserved. Yet, Omanis are very welcoming to tourists. Many times have I been invited by different families to enjoy a cup of Omani coffee and fresh dates at their homes. This warm sense of hospitality clearly stems from ancient times, when the country was a meeting place for sailors from all over the world.
In and around Muscat
A stroll alongside the Muscat Corniche is the best way to soak up the magical Omani atmosphere. Usually, this is the first thing I do upon arrival. When I hear the gulls screaming high above me, when I can see the impressive white yacht of the Sultan floating in the harbour, and when souvenirs are displayed in Muttrah Souq, I feel completely at home. The promenade is also very attractive at nightfall, when colourful lights are reflected on the sea, reminiscent of Van Gogh's Starry Night Over the Rhone.
The Al-Alam palace, His Majesty's ceremonial palace, is another important landmark in the heart of the capital. The colourful blue and white walls are covered with gold and give the palace an everlasting shimmer.
At the other end of Muscat, you will find the Sultan Qaboos Mosque. It covers an area of 40,000 sqm and showcases a chandelier made out of Swarovski crystals, weighing 8 tons. These elements really boost the mosque's impressive appearance. Once, the handmade carpet lying here was the largest ever made. Abu Dhabi has since taken over this record.
But Oman is not interested in competing to be the first, the biggest, the most expensive.....as its charm often lies in the simplicity of life. The "national pastime" is merely to park the car next to the beach, spread out a blanket on the sand and enjoy a night out with friends, and then have a taste of some delicious Karak tea (Masala Chai), a piece of Omani bread (a kind of pancake filled with egg, cheese and honey) or tasty mishkak (grilled meat on a skewer sold on every street corner).
The most popular beach, Shatti Al-Qurum, better known as the Shatti Al-Hubb (Beach of Love), is frequently visited by locals, especially in the glow of the evening sun. The desolate beaches in and around Bandar Khiran, mostly reached only by boat, are the ideal place to put up your tent and watch the stars.
Al Hajar Mountains
In my humble opinion, the greatest treasure that Oman has to offer is its diverse nature. Muscat is built against the backdrop of the rough Al Hajar Mountains, with its highest peak being Jebel Shams (Mountain of the Sun). From 3,000m, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular views in the country.
Along the way, you might spot a canyon, which will take your breath away. The Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain) always looks flourishing after winter rains and presents a unique biodiversity. Mountain goats appear at times, and while walking you can always pick fresh figs or pomegranates.
Absolutely take the chance to discover the hidden villages of Al-Hamra, Bilad Sayt, Misfat Al-Abriyeen and Izki. Some nicely preserved traditional aflaj (irrigation canals recognised as a World Heritage Site) can be seen there. The restored forts of Bahla, Jabreen and Nakhl evoke Omani history, rich in defences against foreign attacks. The city of Nizwa, situated east of the Al-Hajar mountains, with its unique fort and colourful dome, is surely worth the stopover.
Wahiba Sands
Oman also features the opposite of green, fertile wadis: the spectacular Wahiba Sands. This desert consists of shimmering golden dunes transformed into a magical spectacle at every sunrise and sunset. There are several camps where you can spend an unforgettable night under the starlit sky. If you are courageous enough, I dare you to cross the desert at high speed in a 4WD vehicle, an activity called dune bashing. Definitely don't forget to bring along a board for sand boarding down the steep dunes.
His Majesty the Sultan is a true art lover, but until very recently there was no locale for displaying upcoming local talents. Luckily this changed in 2011, when The Royal Opera House Muscat was constructed. The Islamic-inspired building has a timeless look: the white floors, handmade wooden ornaments and beautiful chandeliers present a fusion of traditional and modern architecture. Up to 1,000 people can be seated in the concert hall, where national stars and international guests perform throughout the year.
For example, Marcel Khalife performed at the opera house on March 5 and 7, 2015, together with The Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra. Also, famous composer Omar Khairat appeared there on April 2, 2015.
This year, Oman's largest cultural festivity, the Muscat International Folklore Festival, took place from January 15 to February 14. Also, you may view various national and international art projects displayed in two parks, Al-Naseem and Al Amerat. Further, the Omani Heritage and Culture Village, with a focus on ancient crafts, classical cuisine and traditional music and dance, is definitely rewarding.
Ready to go!
But wait! I did not tell you about Musandam yet, the northern part of Oman with its impressive fjords, and the subtropical Salalah in the far south... So I've just given you lots of reasons to take the next plane to Oman. Even the New York Times recently became aware of magical Oman and named the country as the 20th out of 52 must-see countries in 2015. And, of course, I am ready to go again and rediscover my beloved Oman!
Muscat: Today we have a #OmanPride contribution all the way from Belgium. Twenty-five-year-old Charlotte Coene from Belgium, has sent us an article entitled, "The countless charms of Oman," along with pictures of Oman.
She wrote to us saying, "I have travelled many times to Oman and it has become one of my favourite destinations. This year, I decided to collect my stories and photographs from travelling to Oman and write an article about it. I would feel very honoured if you share the article as a contribution to the #OmanPride campaign. In this way, I hope to spread my love for Oman to many, many more people and motivate them to travel there someday. Hope to be back soon in Oman.
"The Sultanate is an idyllic destination, located in the southeastern section of the Arabian Peninsula. Sadly, it often remains in the shadow of nearby Emirates, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. But Oman greatly contrasts with its neighbouring countries and their expensive splendours. Oman's skyline consists of traditional white houses against the backdrop of rugged mountain tops, where hidden forts and wadis are to be found. It is situated on a pristine coastline and includes a vast desert, thus being an ideal place for lovers of the Arab culture and atmosphere.
"In late December 2014, I hopped on a plane heading to Muscat, the capital of Oman, and also my second home. I had become used to the customs officer's smile on discovering the many stamps in my passport from previous trips to Oman.
"I have to admit, once you have been touched by the authentic charm of Oman, it will never let you go. Let me try to take you on a quick tour of the most beautiful spots in Oman, even though it remains difficult to capture in words a place so close to the heart.
Since the 15th century, Oman has been at the crossroads of maritime routes between Europe and the East. The Omanis traded with different nationalities, offering frankincense as their main export product, with the southern province of Dhofar being the cradle of the frankincense trade.
Attracting tourists
Only after 1970, when His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said came to power, did the country witness major changes. This well-loved man greatly improved Oman's infrastructure and prepared Oman for tourists.
Also, the country's oil and gas reserves looked promising for a wealthy future, but this is about the only similarity with other Arab countries in the region.
Why is Oman considered to be so special? That's probably because, despite big improvements, it never lost its own cultural identity. Both young and old are proud of their traditions. Men often wear the traditional dishdasha (cotton robe) and kumma (a kind of hat), or turban. The khanjar, an engraved dagger made of silver, is strapped on a colourful belt on special occasions.
Welcoming to tourists
Women mostly dress in a black abaya, and in some places their face mask tradition has been preserved. Yet, Omanis are very welcoming to tourists. Many times have I been invited by different families to enjoy a cup of Omani coffee and fresh dates at their homes. This warm sense of hospitality clearly stems from ancient times, when the country was a meeting place for sailors from all over the world.
In and around Muscat
A stroll alongside the Muscat Corniche is the best way to soak up the magical Omani atmosphere. Usually, this is the first thing I do upon arrival. When I hear the gulls screaming high above me, when I can see the impressive white yacht of the Sultan floating in the harbour, and when souvenirs are displayed in Muttrah Souq, I feel completely at home. The promenade is also very attractive at nightfall, when colourful lights are reflected on the sea, reminiscent of Van Gogh's Starry Night Over the Rhone.
The Al-Alam palace, His Majesty's ceremonial palace, is another important landmark in the heart of the capital. The colourful blue and white walls are covered with gold and give the palace an everlasting shimmer.
At the other end of Muscat, you will find the Sultan Qaboos Mosque. It covers an area of 40,000 sqm and showcases a chandelier made out of Swarovski crystals, weighing 8 tons. These elements really boost the mosque's impressive appearance. Once, the handmade carpet lying here was the largest ever made. Abu Dhabi has since taken over this record.
But Oman is not interested in competing to be the first, the biggest, the most expensive.....as its charm often lies in the simplicity of life. The "national pastime" is merely to park the car next to the beach, spread out a blanket on the sand and enjoy a night out with friends, and then have a taste of some delicious Karak tea (Masala Chai), a piece of Omani bread (a kind of pancake filled with egg, cheese and honey) or tasty mishkak (grilled meat on a skewer sold on every street corner).
The most popular beach, Shatti Al-Qurum, better known as the Shatti Al-Hubb (Beach of Love), is frequently visited by locals, especially in the glow of the evening sun. The desolate beaches in and around Bandar Khiran, mostly reached only by boat, are the ideal place to put up your tent and watch the stars.
Al Hajar Mountains
In my humble opinion, the greatest treasure that Oman has to offer is its diverse nature. Muscat is built against the backdrop of the rough Al Hajar Mountains, with its highest peak being Jebel Shams (Mountain of the Sun). From 3,000m, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular views in the country.
Along the way, you might spot a canyon, which will take your breath away. The Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain) always looks flourishing after winter rains and presents a unique biodiversity. Mountain goats appear at times, and while walking you can always pick fresh figs or pomegranates.
Absolutely take the chance to discover the hidden villages of Al-Hamra, Bilad Sayt, Misfat Al-Abriyeen and Izki. Some nicely preserved traditional aflaj (irrigation canals recognised as a World Heritage Site) can be seen there. The restored forts of Bahla, Jabreen and Nakhl evoke Omani history, rich in defences against foreign attacks. The city of Nizwa, situated east of the Al-Hajar mountains, with its unique fort and colourful dome, is surely worth the stopover.
Wahiba Sands
Oman also features the opposite of green, fertile wadis: the spectacular Wahiba Sands. This desert consists of shimmering golden dunes transformed into a magical spectacle at every sunrise and sunset. There are several camps where you can spend an unforgettable night under the starlit sky. If you are courageous enough, I dare you to cross the desert at high speed in a 4WD vehicle, an activity called dune bashing. Definitely don't forget to bring along a board for sand boarding down the steep dunes.
His Majesty the Sultan is a true art lover, but until very recently there was no locale for displaying upcoming local talents. Luckily this changed in 2011, when The Royal Opera House Muscat was constructed. The Islamic-inspired building has a timeless look: the white floors, handmade wooden ornaments and beautiful chandeliers present a fusion of traditional and modern architecture. Up to 1,000 people can be seated in the concert hall, where national stars and international guests perform throughout the year.
For example, Marcel Khalife performed at the opera house on March 5 and 7, 2015, together with The Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra. Also, famous composer Omar Khairat appeared there on April 2, 2015.
This year, Oman's largest cultural festivity, the Muscat International Folklore Festival, took place from January 15 to February 14. Also, you may view various national and international art projects displayed in two parks, Al-Naseem and Al Amerat. Further, the Omani Heritage and Culture Village, with a focus on ancient crafts, classical cuisine and traditional music and dance, is definitely rewarding.
Ready to go!
But wait! I did not tell you about Musandam yet, the northern part of Oman with its impressive fjords, and the subtropical Salalah in the far south... So I've just given you lots of reasons to take the next plane to Oman. Even the New York Times recently became aware of magical Oman and named the country as the 20th out of 52 must-see countries in 2015. And, of course, I am ready to go again and rediscover my beloved Oman!
© Times of Oman 2015
