Magical Oman: A Gateway to Arabia

With the most awe-inspiring natural landscapes under an incessant Middle
Eastern Sun, Oman offers you an enchanting experience. From vibrant old-world
culture to modern diversity, from steep mountains to beautiful wadis (valleys and
river beds), from sand deserts to spectacular beaches, from adventure pursuits
for adrenaline junkies to gentle thrills for families, Oman has it all to ensure a
fabulous Arabian holiday experience.

Muscat, the capital city, is the pulsating heart of the country. Popularly known
as "Arabia's jewel”, Muscat lies sparkling white, topped with golden minarets in the
middle of a maze of brown pleated mountains that reach down to the Arabian Sea.

The older part of the city has many forts, castles, mosques and towers dotting the
landscape. Of particular note are Jalali and Mirani Forts flanking Al Alam Palace. Among
the city highlights are the majestic architecture of the Royal Opera House beaming with
plays and performances of international stature and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque,
the Corniche with its promenade, and the old souq of Muttrah - an ideal spot to buy
souvenirs and treasures.

Greater Muscat showcases eminent business properties, world-class highways, upscale
suburbs rooted in traditional Islamic architecture, elegant mosques, large green parks,
archaeological sites, museums and world-class hotels. The intermingling of ancient
cultural heritage and modern style allows Oman to preserve its historic character while
enjoying its contemporary spirit.

For culture buffs, Muscat is conveniently located for trips to explore the Nizwa Fort, the
400-year-old town of Al Hamra, the rocky terrain of Jebel Shams or the coastal Sur. For
families, what better way to bond together than over fun experiences like bumpy rides
on rolling sand dunes, whale and dolphin-spotting experiences or simply relaxing at a
Bedouin camp. For adrenalin junkies, Muscat is the gateway to go wadi bashing through
the Wadi Shab, sand dune bashing at the Wahiba Sands, embark on a mountain safari
through the Hajjar mountains, quad biking, trekking or caves exploring.

One of the must-visit destinations in Oman is Sur, a placid coastal town, famous for its
dhow shipyards (and presumed home of the legendary Sinbad the Sailor) with an en
route stop at the Wadi Shab.

Nizwa, with its historical buildings and imposing fort, is also famous for its souq
that sells everything from local artefacts, spices, dates, gold and silverware. See the

silversmiths hammer patterns into the hilts of khanjars. Amble through the souk for a
glimpse of the traditional Omani lifestyle.

The awe-inspiring Wahiba Sands are a vast mass of red and white sand with dunes rising
up to 150 meters. Experience life at the Bedouin camps in the desert where Bedouin
herders still wander from waterhole to waterhole.

Another must-visit is the Ras Al Jinz for turtle-watching. It the only place in the
world where you can watch the nesting process of the endangered green turtles, the
loggerhead turtle, the hawksbill turtle and the Olive Ridley turtle.

Nicknamed as the "Norway of the Middle East" because of the inlets likened to
Norway's fjords, Musandam offers amazing views of fjords in placid waters, marine life
and secluded beaches.

Oman has some of the best beaches along its 1700 km long coastline. From the placid
waves and stillness of the sea to the crashing surf and palm fringed shores of golden
sand, Oman’s pristine beaches and quiet coves with its rugged and rocky coastline are
thoroughly enthralling.

Enjoy swimming, diving, snorkeling, boating, surfing and beach combing at the popular
Qurum beach, Bandar Al-Jissah, Sawadi beach or Al Bustan beach. See the beautiful
coral reef formations and marine life whilst diving off Daymaniyat Islands or around
Muscat. The Oman Dive Centre, located at a private cove between Qantab and Barr
Al Jissah, is an ideal place for those who’d like to learn diving or take advanced diving
courses while on a holiday in the sun.

Discover Oman, a magical country in the Arabian Gulf with Mercury Travels

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