Muscat: An Unexpected Stroll

When we left the National Museum, there were no taxis to be had. Anywhere.

Spotting a public bus across the road, we walked over to see if it was going to Mutrah. No can do. It was going in the opposite direction.

We already knew that car-sharing services like Uber did not operate here. What to do?

Hoping to flag down a cab along the way, we decided to stroll toward Mutrah. Walk and walk and walk we did. The few taxis that passed us already had fares. So, we kept going, seeking shade where we could. At least the first part of our walk was along a boulevard with shade trees. But once we passed through the Muscat Gate, the Corniche afforded no such respite. Luckily, we had our hats for shade and water to keep us hydrated.

Along the way, we came across a few places of interest.

The Muscat Gate Museum was one of them. The museum straddles the road between the Old Walled City and the Corniche. Lonely Planet writes that it “… with the original gates that were used until the 1970s to keep land-bound marauders out, marks the position of the old city wall and introduces Muscat proper.” It apparently affords some nice views of the area. Unfortunately, it was closed for “Qailulah” … aka midday-napping … common hereabouts during the hottest part of the day.

Similarly, the Riyam Memorial Incense Burner — built in honor of Oman’s 20th National Day — also affords great views. Or so I had read. But having given up on transportation, we figured we should keep going instead of dallying.

You can bet that we were very happy when we spotted the arched entrance to the Mutrah Souq. Even better, there was a shuttle back to the port just about to leave. Excellent timing.

A tepid shower was first on our minds when we got to our cabin. Followed quickly by food and cold refreshments. Followed then by putting up our weary feet until it was time for Insignia’s 5:00p sailaway. Well deserved after a 3-mile walk in the middle of the day, IMHO.

When we visited Omani ports on RTW2017, we were very impressed with the cities and the country. We saw nothing today to change our mind. We would still like to return for a land-based visit. The question is how to fit it into our busy travel calendar.もっと詳しく