Nestled at the crossroads of tradition and modernity in West Asia's Arabian Peninsula, Oman beckons with a mesmerizing blend of heritage and innovation. From the majestic Royal Opera House Muscat to the captivating allure of the Nizwa Fort and the Bahla Fort, designated UNESCO World Heritage sites, Oman's charm is undeniable.
Discover the beauty of Oman, where cultural gems like the Bait Muzna Gallery await alongside thrilling desert escapades such as sand-dune bashing and starlit camping. Adding to the excitement is the record-breaking 1770-meter Musandam Khasab Oman Zipline, offering a breathtaking ride over water, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. Dive into Oman's vibrant culinary scene, embrace adventure with activities like paragliding and camel riding, or simply bask in luxury and serenity. Oman is an invitation to explore, discover, and savour every moment of its timeless charm.
Embark on a captivating journey as we meander through the bustling souqs, tantalize your taste buds at renowned eateries, and luxuriate in the opulence of Oman's finest spas.
Feast on the best flavours of Omani Cuisine
To say the least, Oman is home to gastronomic delicacies usually cooked in an array of aromatic spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and others. Meat dishes like Shuwa and Mishkak, and rice dishes like Maqbous and Qabuli, are staples of Omani cuisine. Wheat, dates, and fish are important parts of the cuisine as well. Omani coffee, known as Kahwa, is brewed with an undertone of cardamom and often served alongside dates and Omani halwa.
When in Oman, one should eat like an Omani. Here are a few restaurants where you can taste the authentic flavours:
Al Angham at the Opera Galleria, Muscat: One of the finest restaurants in Muscat, this place promises authentic Omani cuisine. The setting of the place is also very niche and royal. One must try Shuwa, Harees and finish their meal with some traditional Omani halwa.
Habboh Café at Al Amerat, Muscat: This is where you should try the authentic Omani breakfast. Local Omani breakfast spreads include red beans in thick tomato stew; a sweet dish made of vermicelli and sugar syrup called Siweah, and a traditional flatbread called Al Mardhoof served with spreads like cream cheese, honey, and strawberry jam. Finish your breakfast here with a cup of cardamom-infused Karak Tea or Rosewater Coffee.
Bait Al Luban Restaurant, Muscat: This place greets you with a pleasant aroma of frankincense, appealing to all your senses. This is one of the best places for traditional Omani flavors in the form of rice dishes, grilled meats, as well as vegetable stews.
Tarma Restaurant in Al Khoudh, Seeb: This restaurant in Seeb is known for infusing a modern touch into traditional Omani dishes. They serve kingfish with a twist of garlic butter sauce and a side of Qabooli rice. One must also try their pit-roasted Shuwa paired with Rakhal flatbread.
And of course, every other local eatery you visit in Oman will ensure to serve you the beautiful and vibrant Omani culture on a platter. You may also want to embark on a culinary quest through local Omani markets like the Mutrah Souq in Muscat to experience the authentic flavors of the region.
Detox and rejuvenate at the finest luxury spas in Oman
If you are someone who prioritizes leisure during vacations, then Oman is the ideal place for you. Oman houses a plethora of luxury spas & wellness centers managed by highly skilled therapists with expertise in using indigenous ingredients to heighten your wellness experience.
Escape into the realm of aromatic and sensory relaxation through science-infused techniques of aromatherapy and herbalism. You can commence your luxe therapeutic journey in Oman at the following places:
Anantara at Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort: The traditional decor of this place, focusing on mountain stone walls and arched windows and the aroma of bakhoor creates an authentic Omani ambiance. One must opt for the hammam ritual therapy when here. They also provide yoga and meditation sessions.
Al Bustan Palace Spa by The Ritz-Carlton: Built on a private beachfront, this wellness retreat uses locally-infused ingredients in its therapies to offer you an authentic Omani spa service. They also have a steam room to awaken your senses.
The Spa at The Chedi Muscat: Spreading up to 1,500 square meters, this place offers therapies backed by the knowledge of Ayurveda and herbalism, catering to every individual’s requirements. The chic decor of this place also adds to the unparalleled experience.
Spa at Six Senses: Surrounded by the tranquility of nature, this place greets you with white stone walls and cobbled floors. The therapies are performed using sustainable ingredients. The wellness treatments are performed with finesse and will relax your senses.
Kempinski The Spa: This luxury spa in Muscat offers an array of authentic Omani wellness treatments using indigenous ingredients like dates, honey, cinnamon, rose and frankincense. They also offer bespoke skin treatments to suit your requirements.
Wander through the vibrance of traditional Omani Souqs
The essence of Oman lies in its markets. The seamless blend of art, architecture, and aromatics govern the traditional Omani marketplaces, known as souks/souqs. For years, souqs played a very important role in upholding the cultural history of Oman. Trading took place here. Strolling through the souqs is an experience that you should not miss in Oman. These souqs are the places from where you can purchase souvenirs to take home.
Muttrah Souq: When in Oman, one must visit the famous 200-year-old Muttrah Souq in Muscat, which is also one of the largest in Oman. The narrow alleys of this souq heighten its allure and antiquity, leading to small shops that sell traditional Omani khanjar (dagger), frankincense, bakhoor (aromatic wood chips infused with essences of natural ingredients like sandalwood), rose perfumes, spices, silver jewelry, pottery, rugs made from sheep’s wool and camel’s hair, and of course, fine gold. Also, do stop to taste the delectable traditional Omani halwa when shopping in this souq. This souq is open from 9 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 10 PM.
Souq of Seeb: The souq of Seeb is a market where you can shop for vibrant bangles, beautiful abayas, and bridal stores. One can find numerous shoe stores as well. It also houses a vast seafood market. This is also the place where you can shop for local perfumes and essences. This market is open every day, from 9 AM to 10:30 PM.
Bahla Souq: This is the perfect place to shop for copper artifacts, daggers, and clay products. This souq paints a beautiful picture of old Oman. One can also buy herbs and spices here. This is a historical tourist attraction as well. You can visit the souq anytime between 5 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 7:30 PM.
Nizwa Souq: To feel the tranquility of the yesteryears of Oman, one must visit the Nizwa Souq. This souq is popular for selling taqiya caps and fresh dates. Tourists also buy Frankincense resin from here to take home. One can find woven mats and baskets, textiles made of Goat’s wool, and glass lamps at this souq. This place runs from 8 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 10 PM.
The souqs of Oman will give you an authentic taste of the vibrant Middle Eastern culture. Exploring these unique souqs should be in your Oman travel itinerary.
The beauty of Oman lies in the fact that it embraces modernity while being rooted in traditional values. Oman is just a 3-hour plane ride from India, making it very convenient for traveling. So why wait? Treat yourself to the gift of a lifetime and embark on a journey to Oman, where cherished memories await to be made.
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In association with Experience Oman.