By Shalini Agraawal
Tranquility and serenity are the words that spring to the mind when one thinks about Muscat. Relaxed lunches on the beach, lazy days of sightseeing, and mesmerising serrated mountains make for many rejuvenating moments. The destination is also a melting pot of British, Indian, Omani, and Sudanese cultures. This naturally makes Muscat a perfect example of unity chequered with diversity, which finds reflection in the very way of life, right from cuisines to art and culture. Lacking the bustle of some of the more commonly known holiday destinations like Thailand, Muscat is the perfect place to unwind far from the maddening crowd. Here are some of the delightful charms adorning this holidaying haven.
Pristine Beaches
Muscat has quite a few soul satisfying private as well as public beaches. The Marjan, Bandi Al Jissah, and Qurum beaches are among the most popular ones. While the Marjan beach is excellent for snorkelling and coming up close to breathtakingly amazing marine life like parrot fish, cuttlefish, turtles, clownfish, and sea cucumbers, the sun kissed palm fringed Bandi Al Jissah beach is perfect for a family picnic. Its fine golden sands and quaint little shops ensure that the beach remains flooded with an overwhelming tide of humanity. Those looking for a somewhat quieter beach picnic would do well to visit Qurum beach and spend some time in solitude amidst captivating scenic views.
Astounding Museums
People who go on Muscat usually do not miss out upon a first hand experience of glorious Arabic traditions holidays in one of the many museums there. The Muscat Gate Museum serves as a window to the entire history of Oman, starting from present times and dating right back to its birth. Similarly, the Oman French museum takes one back to the days of French colonialism. In fact, Muscat is full of numerous fascinating museums.
Mutrah Souk
Although, Muscat has ample playgrounds for mall rats, but nothing beats retail therapy at the Mutrah Souk. This is a world of maze like pathways cluttered with dozens of old fashioned stalls selling a range of goodies like antiques, fresh local produce, local fabrics, nuts, regional spices, jewellery, dowry boxes, hand-weaved footwear and bags, ceramic figurines, religious paintings, and earthenware. The experience here is so unique that it is even said that Muscat holidays are incomplete without some shopping at the Mutrah souk.
Grand Mosque Sultan Qaboos
This massive feat of modern architecture stands as the third largest mosque on the planet. Everything about this grand mosque is king size. Even the hand woven Persian carpets inside the mosque are the largest of their kind in the world. The mosque is open to non Muslims on specific days.
Dolphin Boat Trips
The clear blue seas of Muscat are perfect for taking dolphin watching boat trips. These playful creatures make for an amazing sight when they are up to their antics of performing summersaults in the air. Near here, the Tiwi village is another popular attraction. The major highlight of a trip to the village is to observe the daily behaviour of green turtles.
Watchtower
This incense burner shaped monument offers sweeping views of the surrounding city, desert, and mountains. Right next to the tower, one can connect with nature at the mesmerising Kalbuh and Riyam gardens.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Muscat-Holidays---Somehow-Offbeat-But-Totally-Engrossing&id=4977293] Muscat Holidays - Somehow Offbeat But Totally Engrossing
