Sightseeing in Muscat

One of the many mosques in Oman, some opulent, some small and humble, but everywhere.

Old meets new: one of the many watchtowers that dot the ridges along the coast. Oman has an ancient seafaring and trade route history. You will see concrete structures butting against rock or brick structures, but note architectural embellishments thanks to the Moguls influence

Ancient fort beside concrete apartment building with satellite dish on the roof - typical.

Giant incense burner in a park along the corniche; celebrates Oman's ancient spice trade.

Best for last: An American Frigate came into port the night before. We met 6 men from their crew at our hotel pool (the USS Kauffman FFG-59).

Hi All,

18 October 2010

Oman is beautiful in a austere and magnificent way. Soaring mountain ranges, aqua blue waters and beautiful beaches, interesting architecture (both ancient and new), very friendly locals and our hotel was lovely. The 5-hour drive began with a stop at the border in Al Ain, where we had to purchase exit visas and then into Oman, where we had to purchase visitors visas. Wait at counters t0 show our passports, fill out forms, pay and wait some more before cleared thru - reverse this on the way back (except for the fees on way out are minimal).

We both enjoyed the drive but were happy to get to the Intercontinental and change into swim suits. Scott did his mandatory 2,000 meters in the lovely lap pool and then we went down to the beach and swim in the clear gulf waters. Then we watched fishermen haul in their catch; the entire episode took 12 men, 2 trucks and lasted over 2 hours. So interesting that we couldn't leave and were rewarded to see a large ray being hauled out of the net and onto the beach where it would soon be on the way to the fish market.

We had lovely meals at Trader Vic's (my yellow-fin tuna was so fabulous that we figured out the recipe as we ate and have enjoyed it twice at home since) and an Italian restaurant both a short walk away from the hotel. We met a Navy SEAL at the hotel and enjoyed drinks & war stories. He was obviously was an American (was it the Cubs t-shirt) and also talked at length (with me, is there ever a "short" conversation) with 6 sailors from the USS Kaufmann - Navy Frigate #59. I must tell you that when we rounded the corner and I saw OUR ship with OUR flag, well, it brought tears of joy and pride to Scott and I.

Our drive back took us a different route. We drove back about two hundred miles thru the most beautiful mountain ranges and stopped at a very historic town to visit their famous souq. Well, did not take into account that the inner areas (translate: not that many tourists visit) close up during the mid-day for prayers and sleeping off huge noon meals and to escape the heat! We stopped an Omani man for directions and he welcomed us to his country and invited us to his home for coffee and this is typical Hospitality is a hallmark of Arab countries, as is their delicious coffee. Considering that the entire town was closed, we should have gone... It was okay, because back to the beautiful drive. Stark, Austere, Magnifient were all words that describe Oman's mountains and hope to see more as we explore the vastly different regions while we enjoy our grand adventure.
Scott and I both thoroughly enjoyed Oman despite the heat (of course if you want to experience anything, you have to go outside!) We are so blessed to be able to experience so many different areas and cultures and people. We are learning to be adaptable and enjoy the celebrate the differences. Love to you, Christine and Scott