If you're anything like me, formal emails and promotional mailers can be a bit of a bore. But, every now and then, you stumble upon something that’s truly worth sharing. One such experience came when I decided to explore Oman. While it wasn't planned to be a big trip, it turned out to be one of the most eye-opening stopovers I've had in a while.
For those who know us, you probably already know that we’re frequent travelers. However, we’re not exactly great at sharing our experiences, even though many of you have asked us to. This year, we made a resolution to share more about our travels, and Oman was the perfect place to kick off that commitment.
The Impromptu Visit
Our trip to Oman wasn’t originally on the agenda. What drew me in was the combination of affordable flights and a simple visa process. A close friend had visited Oman the previous Christmas and couldn't stop raving about it, so I decided to check it out.
In the past, we'd had friends from Oman visiting Europe, often inviting us to visit their country. I’ll admit, I always pushed it to the backburner, thinking it was just another destination that people take pride in, like any other place. How wrong I was! What I found in Oman was a unique and beautiful country with a rich culture and history.
First Impressions: Muscat
I landed in Muscat and quickly picked up my rental car from the airport. It was such a smooth experience, and the prices were quite reasonable compared to Western countries. Sure, chauffeur-driven cars are an option, but the flexibility of driving yourself was much more appealing to me. Oman has great road infrastructure, and the traffic isn't as dense as what you find in Europe. If you can drive, I highly recommend renting a car – it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Muscat itself is a mix of modern and old-world charm. With limited time, I headed straight for the Medina and Souk, where the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere made it feel like a true Middle Eastern experience. If you're into more modern dining options, the newer part of the city is a better bet. The Medina, by the corniche, offers a pleasant walk by the sea, surrounded by a castle and a couple of museums, which you can explore if you have time.
Nizwa: A Step Back in Time
From Muscat, I drove north to Nizwa, a historic fort town nestled in the heart of Oman. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding mountains, wadis, and traditional villages. The Nizwa Fort, one of the oldest continuously occupied settlements in Oman, offers an immersive experience of Oman’s history. The fort itself is like a mini-fortified town, and you can even stay inside it! I spent half a day there, but it's easy to spend more time exploring.
Another highlight of Nizwa is the Oman New Age Museum. With its impressive modern architecture, it’s an informative stop where you can easily lose track of time.
Jabreen Castle and Bahla Fort: Majestic Monuments
Driving west from Nizwa, I made my way to Jabreen Castle, one of Oman’s most beautiful castles. However, the real gem for me was Bahla Fort. As the largest fort in Oman, it truly lived up to the country’s nickname, “Land of a Thousand Forts.” Bahla Fort, which sits at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar highlands, is one of the four UNESCO-listed forts in Oman. Its sheer scale and historical significance made it a fascinating stop.
Old Al Hamra: A Glimpse of Authentic Omani Life
An hour further, I arrived at the picturesque village of Old Al Hamra. It was, by far, the highlight of my trip. This village, tucked at the base of the mountains and wadi, offers a rare glimpse into traditional Omani life. The living history museum, Bait al Safah, was one of the most engaging parts of my visit. The village is filled with ruins, and you can walk through the preserved homes that tell the story of Oman’s past. It's a must-visit if you want to understand the authentic Omani culture.
I had hoped to make it to Misfat al Abriyyin and Bald Sayt in the mountains, but unfortunately, I ran short on time. Those places are on my list for my next trip!
More to Explore in Oman
Though I didn’t have time to see everything, Oman has so much more to offer. You can spend days in the desert, staying in luxury camps in the dunes, or relax in seaside resorts along the eastern and southern shores. I’ve been invited by my Omani friends to explore these regions next time, and they’ve assured me that I won’t want to miss them.
Oman is undoubtedly a destination I will revisit. It's a country that offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. So, if you're ever in the area or looking for a stopover destination, I highly recommend adding Oman to your travel list.
In the meantime, I’ll be planning my next stopover in Oman on my way to India later this year. Who knows what new experiences I’ll uncover? Stay tuned for more travel stories – I’m committed to sharing them with you this time!
Let me know if you’ve been to Oman or have any other recommendations for future trips. Would love to hear from fellow travelers!
