Tranquility and serenity are the words that come to mind when one thinks of Muscat. Relaxed lunches on the beach, days off for sightseeing and mesmerizing jagged mountains create many rejuvenating moments. The destination is also a melting pot of British, Indian, Omani and Sudanese cultures. Naturally, this makes Muscat a perfect example of unity marked by diversity, which is reflected in the way of life, from cuisine to art and culture. Without the bustle of some of the more popular holiday destinations like Thailand, Muscat is the perfect place to relax away from the madding crowd. Here are some of the charming charms that grace this vacation paradise.
virgin beaches
Muscat has quite a few private and public beaches that satisfy the soul. The beaches of Marjan, Bandi Al Jissah and Qurum are among the most popular. While Marjan Beach is excellent for snorkeling and getting up close to impressive marine life such as parrotfish, cuttlefish, turtles, clownfish and sea cucumbers, the sun-drenched, palm-fringed Bandi Al Jissah Beach, it is perfect for a family picnic. Its fine golden sands and quaint little shops ensure that the beach remains awash in an overwhelming tide of humanity. Those looking for a somewhat quieter beach picnic would do well to visit Qurum Beach and spend some time in solitude amid captivating panoramic views.
amazing museums
People who go to Muscat usually don’t miss out on a first-hand experience of the glorious holiday of Arabian traditions at one of the many museums there. The Muscat Gate Museum serves as a window into the entire history of Oman, from the present day to its birth. Similarly, the French museum in Oman takes one back to the days of French colonialism. In fact, Muscat is full of many fascinating museums.
Souq Mutrah
Although, Muscat has ample playgrounds for mall rats, but nothing beats retail therapy at the Mutrah Souk. This is a world of labyrinthine lanes lined with dozens of ancient stalls selling a variety of goods including antiques, fresh local produce, local fabrics, nuts, regional spices, jewelry, dowry boxes, handwoven shoes and bags, ceramic figurines , religious paintings, and earthenware. The experience here is so unique that even a Muscat holiday is said to be incomplete without some shopping at the Mutrah souk.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
This enormous feat of modern architecture stands as the third largest mosque on the planet. Everything about this grand mosque is king size. Even the hand-woven Persian rugs inside the mosque are the largest of their kind in the world. The mosque is open to non-Muslims on specific days.
Boat rides with dolphins
Muscat’s clear blue waters are perfect for dolphin watching boat trips. These playful creatures are an incredible sight when they’re up to their antics of performing summer-hopping mid-air. Nearby, the Tiwi village is another popular attraction. The highlight of a trip to the town is observing the daily behavior of the green turtles.
Vigilance tower
This incense burner shaped monument offers panoramic views of the city, the desert and the surrounding mountains. Right next to the tower, one can connect with nature at the mesmerizing Kalbuh and Riyam Gardens.
