Oman

A completely different landscape and culture awaits you when you take a trip to Oman. The country on the eastern part of the Arabic peninsular is still relatively closed to tourism and can therefore be seen in all its authenticity and tradition. Despite the oil reserves in the

country, there are still very few firms which have established themselves in Oman.

Different to many other Arabic states, the westernisation of Oman has not yet taken over the country. An interesting mix of modernity and tradition shapes the image of Oman today. The country was originally a centre for sea-fare and trade. Contact to other countries like India and the states of eastern Africa influenced many cultural areas, like for example the Osmanian cuisine. Typical foods are not only dates, rice and lemons but also the use of cardamon, saffran and tumeric. If you would like to try a traditional dish, try “Shoova” (goat meat in banana leaves) or the sweet dessert “Halva”.

The geographical location of Oman is unique. While the north is characterised by the Hadjar mountain range – incidentally a paradise for geologists – in the west and in the centre of the country there is mostly desert and so the population here is quite sparse. If you dare to take a trip through this region, you will probably encounter a Bedouin tribe or two. Apart from that, you are guaranteed to enjoy peace and calm. The region Dhofar lies in the south and the area rises up into a 1000 metre high mountain range of the same name. The limestone mass formation breaks off into a broad plane along the coast. From June to August, the monsoon transforms this region into a tropical paradise with beautiful vegetation. Generally, it has to be said that in summer, record temperatures over 40 degrees celsius are an everyday occurrence. For Europeans, the most comfortable time to travel is from October to April.

Many symbols and cultural objects will appear foreign to you at first. Men, for example, wear the “Khandjar” on special occasions, which is a curved dagger. It is not used as a weapon but as a status symbol. Colourful clothing and the attention to detail and accessories are an expression of the lively and open attitude of the locals. As long as you pay them due respect, the inhabitants of Oman will gladly speak to you and let you in on the secrets of this oriental culture.
There are many sights and attractions waiting for you in Oman. Cross the desert on a camel, discover the unique underwater world of the Arabic Sea whilst snorkling or scuba diving or enjoy the dream beaches with white sand and turquoise blue water. Make a detour to the peninsular Musandam with its breath-taking Fjord landscape or view the countless historical castles and prisons in the country – for example the famous Al Hazm Fort or the Jabrin Palace from the 17th century. A trip in your rental car through the country also has a lot in store. A trip along the Al Batinah is definitely worth it. Al Batinah is a coastal strip in the north of the country, which boasts rows of plantations. You can also visit the second biggest city Salalah in the province of Dhofar. An absolute highlight is of course the capital city Masqat, the modern centre of the country, located on the northern coast. In the last thirty years an impressive architectural masterpiece has formed there but without having ruined the old city quarters like Matrah. Wander through the alleys and take in the smell of oriental spices and incense, which is typical for Oman. Endless sand beaches can be seen from here, which invite you in for relaxation and pleausre.
Whether its endless desert, beautiful coastlines or historical temples and palaces – Oman is worth seeing in every respect. Discover this true paradise and enjoy the warm and cosy atmosphere of this very special country.