For those of us living in Bahrain, Oman is in the immediate vicinity. It’s one of those convenient escapes that never gets old. A quick flight lands you in an entirely different world, and after spending a few days exploring Muscat and Jebel Akhdar, I’m reminded why it’s a trip every traveller must take at some point – solo or with a squad.
Oman reveals itself slowly, and that’s part of its charm. The Royal Opera House sets the tone with its architectural statement. What struck me is how it sits so naturally in the landscape, a modern tribute to Oman’s long relationship with the arts. The National Museum follows a similar thread, offering genuine insight into the country’s history through exhibits that feel thoughtfully curated rather than rushed.
Muttrah Souq is where things get sensory. The frankincense fills the air, and the narrow corridors wind past stalls selling everything from traditional knick-knacks to intricate silver jewellery. It’s touristy, but it’s also genuinely functional, a place where locals still shop for spices and textiles. Dinner at Rozna Restaurant rounded off the Muscat experience with authentic Omani cuisine that felt simple and celebratory.
Jebel Akhdar was a revelation. The drive up Oman’s second-highest mountain takes you through landscapes that shift from dusty plains to terraced agriculture clinging to cliffsides. Villages like Birkat Al Mouz and Sowagra feel preserved rather than recreated. The falaj irrigation systems still function, traditional houses stand testament to centuries-old building techniques, and local life continues at its own pace.
Lunch at Sowagra, perched in the mountains, offered more than just views. There’s something about eating traditional food in its natural context that makes the experience feel complete. Wandering through the mountain villages of Al Ayn, Al Aqar, and Al Sharyjah gave me a sense of how people have adapted to this dramatic terrain over generations.
Nizwa Souq, famously known for its Omani frankincense, Omani daggers, and pottery, felt like an authentic reflection of the Sultanate’s culture, while the 16th-century Portuguese fort provides context for the region’s layered history.
For those of us in Bahrain, Oman offers the perfect short break. It’s lush, serene, and the perfect break for a long weekend.
I was invited to a 3-day visit to Oman by AFAQ Travel & Tourism. For more information about the packages and trips, visit the website.
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