As travelers seek out the road less traveled, Oman’s mystical allure beckons. Our My Travel Affairs series features fascinating aspects of this Arabian jewel that may surprise even the most seasoned adventurers. Let’s tread lightly into the world of frankincense, Arab horses, and ancient traditions.
1. No Coca – Cola
While the globe guzzles Coca-Cola, Oman has a peculiar affinity for Pepsi, especially Mountain Dew, humorously referred to by locals as ‘Omani Alcohol’. Visitors yearning for Coke may find it unusually scarce except perhaps within the confines of luxurious hotels.
2. Liquor Licence Issue
To indulge in alcoholic beverages in Oman, one must possess a liquor licence, capped at 10% of one's salary. A reminder of diverse legal landscapes around the world, and perhaps a shield against the societal issues alcohol can foster.
3. Coffee + Dates
In Oman, coffee transcends mere consumption. It's an act of hospitality, savored in countless, deliberate sips, invariably accompanied by the nation's finest dates. A languid ritual that invites warmth and conversation.
4. Weekend = Friday + Thursday
Oman's weekend traditionally aligns with the Islamic holy day, Friday. These two days off, which also include Thursday, are in the process of shifting, joining other nations in observing a Friday-Saturday weekend.
5. Woman – only Souq
A vibrant tapestry of commerce exists in the city of Ibra, where a women-only souq unfolds every Wednesday. Here, a female tapestry weaves an exclusive market scene void of men, a unique cultural enclave selling an array of goods.
6. Doors to Heaven
Oman's residences often boast doors that are nothing short of art, meticulously crafted and exquisitely detailed. They stand as welcoming portals of Omani heritage, regardless of the house's simplicity or grandeur.
7. Oldest Independent Arab State
Home to a history steeped in autonomy, Oman prides itself as the longest-standing independent Arab state under the unbroken rule of the Al-Said family since 1744. A legacy belying a relatively recent democratization.
8. Frankincense Trees
The endangered frankincense trees paint a fragrant picture of Oman’s rich heritage, as they sway uncertainly towards an ecological precipice. Here, the trees are more than botanical specimens; they are cultural icons.
9. Arab Horses Land
Oman's historical narrative is intricately tied to the esteem of Arab horses—a symbol of the owner's valor and noble traits. The Omani sands whisper tales of purebreds dating back to the legendary progenitor, Zaad AL-Rakeb.
10. Open for Tourists!
Oman has broadened its horizons, embracing tourists since 1987. A land once traversed solely by pricy tours and business executives now welcomes all who seek its deserts' embrace before the tides of tourism sweep through.
As travel continually enriches our experiences and broadens our perspectives on life and culture, staying in a place that captures the essence of the destination becomes invaluable. Oman offers such an experience, with accommodations ranging from modern resorts to traditional retreats – each with its own story and a gateway to the country's heart. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty and rich history of Oman, a destination truly unlike any other.
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