Oman
Muscat
Oman, one of the smaller countries at the edge of the Arabian Peninsula, is sometimes referred to as “Happy Arabia,” a nickname that, after spending some time there, I’ve begun to subscribe to as well — especially compared with some of its larger and more conservative neighbours. Coming from Saudi Arabia, Oman felt remarkably open and welcoming.
Perhaps more than anything, Oman seems to have retained a strong connection to its traditions of commerce, maritime trade and hospitality. I found people in Oman to be genuinely friendly and helpful, and there was a noticeable sense of openness and coexistence, and curiosity (…).
Sultan Qaboos Mosque
(…) Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is, in my mind, one of the best and most fascinating examples of a modern interpretation of Islamic geometric design, both in its architecture and its details. And while the interior of the main prayer hall might not be the most unique, the inner and outer courtyards are something straight out of a sci-fi movie.
Tall geometric arches spanning the entire area. Huge, smooth stone surfaces covered with intricate geometric and calligraphic carvings running across them. And almost no colour at all, just the pure sandy hue of the stone (…).
Hidden Beach
My usual way of exploring a place is to do a vague, high-level survey before arriving and then improvise — wandering, getting lost, visiting the places I want to see, but also simply following whatever catches my attention along the way.
This requires two things: a reasonably walkable city and a sense of safety. Oman was, for the most part, very safe and somewhat walkable, but several times a day I found myself in a rather puzzling interaction.