Unique Landscape
From its sandy beaches to its mountain peaks, people still don’t realise how unique Oman’s landscape is. In 2012, Muscat ranked second next to London as the best city to travel to that year. In 2016, Oman came in top eight in the top countries to visit. Whether you’re looking for a good time in the city or a relaxing time at the beaches, Oman has got it all for you.
Urban Scene and Ancient Heritage
Just like its comrades Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, Oman’s local urban scene is vibrant and modern. But unlike its neighbouring countries, I cannot categorise Oman as a desert country that’s moved its way into a shiny, sparkling city. It has kept its traditional Arabian peninsula roots whilst boasting a massive array of natural activities to discover.
While its capital Muscat may have a booming night life and a towering skyscraper like the capitals of Dubai and Doha, Oman keeps its ancient heritage solid as a rock. For example, there is Bahla Fort which is the oldest fort in Oman and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due its 2000+ years water delivery system. While we’re on the topic, this country is rich in forts because these were used as a protection from pirates and such. Pretty cool, if you ask me.
Natural Beauty
But it’s not the city life that struck me the most about Oman – it’s the beaches and mountains. Oman’s mountains are not green because of trees and grasses, they are brown, grey, and black because they are massive rock formations. Oman’s coast is part of the Indian Ocean, which shares its area within the vicinity of Maldives and northernmost part of UAE. The waters are clear, warm, and the reefs are healthy! So for a diver like me, yes, I absolutely had the time of my life. It’s actually the place I chose to celebrate my 23rd birthday!
There are sea creatures everywhere. No matter where I swam, I spotted various species of marine animals which I have ultimately adored. It’s safe to say I went home with my memory card full.
Oman is really pushing to get the word out over its abundant natural beauty. It’s unfair to say the country is slowly becoming attractive as the nation has been stunning since the beginning of its time.
Personally, I call it the only rose among the thorns seeing as it is the only country among its peers that offer the kind of beauty that does not need nitpicking or any tampering with.
A Scorpio world traveller who’s lived in four different countries in three different continents & has travelled twenty-five nations and counting. Now happily living in England. Apart from travelling, I love baking and scuba-diving. I am multi-cultured, brave, strong-willed and passionate. I am on a singular path towards visiting all countries of the earth. While I wait and plan for my next travel, I am writing stories of my previous travels – one country at a time.
