Planning a trip to Dubai? I highly recommend a side trip to Oman, the under the radar destination, just a short one-hour flight or four-hour drive from Dubai International Airport.

Having recently re-watched prolific chef and traveler, Anthony Bourdain’s, CNN “Parts Unknown” Oman Episode, I jumped at the opportunity to spend a few days in this very distinct, Arabian Peninsula country prior to our stays in Dubai and the Maldives.

Capital city, Muscat, is a great base for a relatively crowd-free (for now) exploration of this 2,000-year-old country with a rich and layered history. Nestled between the rugged Hajar Mountains and the marine life-rich Gulf of Oman, Muscat has served as a strategic port due to its natural harbor – a vital trade route between East and West. Inhabited over the centuries by Persians, Portuguese, and Ottomans, the mix of cultures have all left their mark on the city’s architecture and heritage.

In the late 20th century, Muscat underwent a rapid modernization while still preserving its authentic identity – white-washed buildings, grand mosques, and bustling souqs sit alongside low-rise modern structures and international cultural centers. Cooler months November through April are an ideal time to visit. There are plenty of top-notch hotels: Mandarin Oriental, The Chedi, and St. Regis, where we enjoyed beach front accommodations and plenty of indoor and outdoor international dining choices. We spent a day with our extremely hospitable local Omani guide who gave us an insider view of this distinctive city with a significant expat population and a culture that is welcoming to visitors from countries and religions around the globe.

WHAT TO SEE:
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: A stunning architectural masterpiece, this iconic landmark showcases a harmonious blend of Islamic, Middle Eastern, and Omani design elements. The white and honey-tone Indian sandstone, luminous Carrera marble facade, 50-meter-high dome, and 90-meter minarets reflect the fusion of traditional design with modern craftsmanship. Inside is the world’s largest hand-woven Persian carpet and above you hangs an immense eight-ton, 600,000 crystal Swarovski chandelier. Get there early to enjoy a more crowd free experience. Appropriate dress code should be observed at this site.

Royal Opera House: This premier venue was the first modern opera house built on the Arabian Peninsula. Traditional pink desert limestone facades and intricate carved mahogany screens blend with European design influences and modern theatre technology. Ringed by sprawling plazas and colorful formal gardens filled with clipped hedge mazes, tree lined promenades, and dense carpets of vibrant purple petunias, the exterior is as dramatic as the marble and gold-leaf inlayed interiors.

Mutrah Souq: Explore the narrow lanes of this traditional bazaar (one of the world’s oldest) filled with the scent of frankincense, the shimmer of gold jewelry, the glint of handcrafted silver, and textiles in every vivid hue. Everything from perfumes to pashminas can be found with modern shops and cafes rounding out the experience. Bargaining is welcomed!

Corniche Walk: A walk on this seaside four-mile waterfront promenade on the Gulf of Oman will lead you to the centuries old Portuguese Fort. Along the way explore palm tree shaded cafes, bustling seafood stalls, marble tiled pathways, and panoramic views of the luxury cruise ships and traditional masted dhows that dot the bustling port.

Mutrah Fish Market: Since my sons have been avid fisherman since they were small, a visit to a fish market is included on many of our travels. Nestled on the northern end of the Corniche, this market is a must-see for all things piscine. A hive of local activity, over 100 fish selling merchants come together alongside dozens of fruit and vegetable sellers in an adjacent building. Visit in the morning when the fishermen unload their bounty and vendors meticulously clean and proudly display their catch of the day: tuna, prawns, lobster, dorados, and king fish to name just a few.

Al Alam Palace: Nestled in the heart of Old Muscat, this ceremonial residence of the Sultan of Oman, is a dazzling example of contemporary Islamic architecture. Its bold gold and royal blue façade, flanked by elegant and tapered columns creates a regal impression. While the interior remains off limits to visitors, the grand ornamental gates and landscaped gardens are worth a visit to get a glimpse of Oman’s royal heritage.

Al Mouj Muscat: Our hotel, the St. Regis Al Mouj was conveniently located adjacent to this vibrant waterfront destination. The Walk is a lively marina promenade lined with stylish cafes, bustling plazas, boutiques, and waterfront restaurants. The Marina is home to over 400 berths, and the launching point for water-themed adventures: dolphin watching cruises, snorkel trips, jet skiing, fishing and scuba charters.

Day trip outside the city: Include a full-day excursion outside the city to the rugged Hajar Mountains and the sweeping sands of the Wahiba Desert for a taste of Oman’s natural beauty and traditional Bedouin hospitality. Book a 4×4 adventure through the winding mountain passes, explore picturesque villages, or Wadi Ghul, known as the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.” Head south to the golden dunes of the Sharqiya Sands and ride a camel, sandboard, or watch the sunset. Visit a hidden wadi and take a refreshing dip in an emerald pool ringed by date palms.

Click here to check out all my destination articles, Mollie Mandell, Travel Agent, Herricks Travel.

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