Muscat

From above, I could see the white-washed buildings of Muscat, and it already seemed like a different world. I exited the airport to the hot and dry climate, it wasn't so bad. I hoped all my practice drives in Japan would pay off because I was about to drive off with a rental car. I got myself a Hyundai Accent. Everything here was on the other way around, and I quickly had to get used to it. The nerves were definitely there. Thankfully, Muscat's roads were very wide and the infrastructure was amazing. True, there were a lot of speed demons out there but I was able to somehow get used to it and did pretty well during the opening hours, making a few wrong turns every now and then.

My first stop was the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. I was also able to nail the parking and was quite proud of that too. Unfortunately, it was closed today but the photos were still pretty great. Nearby was the opulent Royal Opera House. This was one of the architectural gems that I had wanted to see and grab photos of. It did not disappoint. Those geometric shapes made it look like it was some sort of castle found in fractal dreams.

I then went to the secret but also famous, Yiti Viewpoint which boasted sprawling views of Muscat as it's hugged by rugged valleys. My car got stuck for a bit and the rental car company helped me with that.

Now it was time for the fun part. The journey to Qantab beach opened my eyes to the wonders of driving around Oman. The empty desert roads, the freedom and speed allowance and beautiful mountainous scenery was simply outstanding through and through. And Qantab beach? Well what can I say except that Oman's beaches were pristine and world-class. Such a shame or rather how lucky it is that it's not on the radar of a lot of tourists...yet. A kind old fellah approached me about boat rides and it sounded interesting but I wanted to explore the place a bit more first. I went back to the old guy and took up his offer to go on his boat for half the price to which he agreed to immediately. It was such a great decision, because I truly felt happy and couldn't stop myself from smiling as our boat cruised through the open waters and feeling the wind gush against my face. The journey took us through some gnarly seascapes and through some natural caves and coves. I was very satisfied with the experience.

On the way back to Muscat, I stopped by Al Bustan Viewpoint for some more awesome views, no matter how many times it's not possible to not be impressed by Oman's landscapes. I stopped by Al Bustan beach as well, they had a bit of a Santorini-vibe going on as well with these white and blue palette.

At this point, I was pretty hungry since I haven't had anything to eat since morning and had already skipped lunch at this point. Driving also takes a toll, I was very fatigued, jetlagged and sleepy but I just have to make it until dinner it seems like. But the day was not finished and after a long drive back, I still visited Al Alam Palace. Again, just falling in love with Oman. I loved how there were government mandates to preserve the culture and architecture and I was so impressed by just how beautiful everything looked. I daresay this area was even prettier than Prague. One could tell Oman was rich but it wasn't so in your face as Dubai but it's easily seen in both the infrastructure and architecture, but most of all in its people. Not that the people dress in such a manner befitting the rich as they actually do still wear traditional clothing, but the people here are quite dignified in a good way. There is a certain level of class and decorum that is also reflected in their kindness and hospitality. That is a rich culture.

As it was my first night and my first meal, I wanted to treat myself to some good food and I went with an Omani fine-dining restaurant called Bait Al Luban. The service once again did not disappoint, I got some dates and also frankincense water which actually tasted amazing. The dishes were on point and the desert was on point, I was full, satisfied and ready to hit the hay.

I was a bit nervous regarding my hotel after reading reviews of people being swindled by desposits but there was none of that for me. I took a shower, and crashed, sleeping like a log.Read more