Travel Guide to Oman

Location

Oman is a large country bordering the Arabian Gulf to its east with three land borders with UAE, Saudi Arabia and Yemen. It also has an enclave within the UAE.

Shopping

Muscat is a great place to shop with modern malls and traditional market places.

Geography

Much of the country is an inland dessert plain which has a hot dry climate. The coast which tends to be much more populated has a higher humidity and cooling breezes. To the far south around the city of Salalah the Indian Oceans influence brings monsoons in the months of May-Sep. There are mountains to the far north and south. There is also a town of Madha which is found in a small territory within the UAE to the north.

History

Local tribes occupied the territory with the wealth of Frankincense to trade until the 16th century. Before this there is considerable history of Omani tribes conquering neighbouring states and fierce exchanges to capture back.

In 1506 the Portuguese seized control of the territory and oversaw the region until 1650 when they were expelled by Imam Sultan bin Saif. This saw the beginning of an expansion in the Omani territory and my the mid 1800s towns and regions were occupied right down the African coast including Mombassa and Zanzibar.

From 1891-1971 Oman became a British protectorate. During this time the country saw a split in the ruling of the country after the death of the sultan and then subsequently reuniting the people.

Climate

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Av Temp (F)	77	77	84	91	99	102	102	99	97	93	86	81
Av Temp (C)	25	25	29	33	37	39	39	37	36	34	30	27
Sunshine Hours	8	8	8	9	10	11	11	11	10	10	9	9
Rain (inches)	1	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1

Basic Information

Language
Arabic is the official language although English is also widely spoken and understood.

Currency
The official currency is the Rial (OR), which divides into 1000 Baisas.

Electricity
220/240 volts AC 50 Hz with 3 pin UK style plugs.

Banks
Opening hours Sat-Wed 8am-12pm, Thur 8am-11am.

Driving
Driving is on the right. Roads are in good condition. Taxis are widely available.

Time difference
GMT +4 hours.

Tipping and local customs
Tipping is not usually expected, however more modern and expensive hotels and restaurants tend to add on 10-15%.

Alcohol is permitted for non-Muslims in licensed premises of hotels, restaurants and bars. However, it is strictly forbidden for individuals to consume in public places.

Alcohol is not served in many restaurants during the holy month of Ramadan early Oct-early Nov 2005. Also you should not eat, drink or smoke in public during this period.

Do not photograph and Muslim women or military or their installations.

Water
Bottled mineral water is recommended.

Tourist Board information
www.mocioman.gov.com (ministry of commerce site)

Visas
Visas are currently required for British and Irish passport holders, but this may be purchased on entry (for stays longer than 14 nights Visas must be pre arranged). The fee for this is approx £15. You should check this with the British Consulate before you travel. Six months valid passport is required.

What makes it so special?

Oman is a wonderful authentic destination unspoilt by tourism in any way. The year round climate makes it a great place to visit and choose a modern or modernised hotel to have all the comforts we normally expect on our leisure trips. The interior is a vast hot and dry plain which is great to explore in a 4x4 vehicle on any of the great excursions available.

Where to visit?

Shopping in Muscat markets as well as main modern malls.

Muscat city is full of wonders with its older sectors and narrow streets oozing with history to its more modern commercial centre.

A trip inland to see the desert and the contrasting countryside is a must

The mountains make for a spectacular visit with trekking available for the more adventurous

Visit the many Forts and Castles dotted around the state giving you an insight into the history of the country.

Most popular tours

Muscat City Tour

Desert Safari – half day exploring the dunes in a 4 wheel drive as well as a fuller tour with overnight stop(s)