ADVERTORIAL • October 2017
Six reasons to holiday in Muscat
Whether you’re wandering its frankincense-scented souq or sipping a fresh pomegranate juice on the corniche, here’s why you’ll be seduced by Muscat’s laid-back, leisurely charm
A warm reception
The ancient port city of Muscat is a must-visit for many reasons, but its climate has to be one of the biggest draws – fine weather all year round makes exploring the Omani capital a delight. Stroll along the breezy corniche, stopping at one of the fresh pomegranate juice stalls (bicycles are free to rent here, too). Venture further afield and you’ll happen upon some of the most beautiful beaches on the Arabian peninsula. We love Tiwi with its astonishingly turquoise water, it is a superb snorkelling spot.
Souq it and see
Wander the frankincense-scented alleyways at the Mutrah souq - the spice, cloth and silverware stalls may be eye-catching, but don’t forget to look up at the traditional ceiling of weaved palm leaves and wood. Those after a modern vibe will find it at the commercial centre Ruwi, with its sprawl of low-lying offices (the city has a no skyscraper policy) and vibrant shops. The Muscat Grand Mall in Al Khuwair and the City Centre Muscat malls in Seeb and Qurum are huge complexes devoted to retail therapy.
Culture fix
Soak up Muscat’s 5,000-year history by exploring its architectural gems. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a feast for the eyes, all gold leaf, marble floors, Persian carpets and an eight-tonne Swarovski chandelier. Also worth a visit are the Royal Opera House in Shatti Al-Qurum, where the music is world class; Al Alaam Palace, the residence of His Majesty the Sultan and one of the most striking examples of contemporary Islamic architecture; and the city’s string of medieval ports.
Food for thought
Oman has a rich culinary heritage with Persian, North African, Arab and Indian influences. From the good-value curry houses in Ruwi and the traditional shawarma cafés at Muttrah to the swankier restaurants in modern districts like Qurum (Mumtaz Mahal by Qurum Park is the place to go for Mughlai cuisine), you definitely won’t go hungry. If you’d like something a little stronger than karak (a spiced sweet tea) to wash down your meal, ask the restaurant in advance whether they sell alcohol, as many places don’t.
Suite dreams
Accommodation in Muscat comes in all shapes and sizes, ranging from serviced apartments to opulent five-star hotels. The Chedi Muscat falls into the latter camp. Overlooking the inviting waters of the Gulf of Oman, it’s the epitome of serenity – the rooms and villas are minimalist and sizeable, there are three pools (two are adults-only), an enormous spa (the largest in Muscat) and six restaurants.
Adventure time
The vast golden expanse of Wahiba Sands is just four hours away; here you can book a traditional Bedouin tent at the 1000 Nights Desert Camp. As the sun sets and the lamps are lit, the atmosphere is bewitching. After a restful night’s sleep, see in the soft light of the desert dawn with a sweet mint tea before having a go at sand biking or dune-bashing.
British Airways flies to Muscat from London Heathrow. To book your holiday, visit ba.com/muscat
Words: Harriet Cooper
This article has been tagged Advertorial, Destination