Muscat tour with Abdullah

Abdullah Alraisi

Just like most things in my life visiting Muscat for a day was pure fluke. I'd like to say it was a well thought out plan having a full day in Muscat en route to Bangkok and Burma and having a wonderful guide waiting for me in the shape of Abdullah Alraisi.  My guide Abdullah was also down to the goodness of the Gods as he'd found me on a website travel forum on which I had been asking what could I do in 12 hours in Muscat. Many said take a taxi downtown, Abdullah said come with me and I'll show you Muscat, the hills and the markets. And that he did! He arrived in a very comfortable sedan and first things first he picked up a picnic for us. Our first stop was at the fish market which was a cacophony of sounds and smells and visual candy in the form of fish I'd never seen before. I wish I'd had a frying pan!
From there we headed for the Nakhal fort where Abdullah showed me around all the while explaining the functions of each room and area of the fort. The views from the fort give one a great view and perspective on the area which is open and vast until you reach the mountains.
And we did reach the mountains and the amazing Snake canyon. Once you open the door of the car you are struck by the silence, there is nothing but the beautiful peace of silence. Having come from Paris the peace and quiet were very welcome indeed.

We walked into the canyon and soon heard the laughter of children at play, their father greeted us and invited us to have coffee and dates. The coffee was a blend of Rose water, saffron, cardamom and coffee and this mixed with dates was equal to an angel crying on my tongue. The welcome and friendship that greets you immediately in Oman is unequalled by that of very few countries I know of, and it leaves a lasting impression.

En route to Snake canyon

The sheer scale of the mountains is pure majesty and the elegance of the mosques must be seen to be believed. So if you're a fan of photography and would like to learn more while visiting new places feel free to contact me for more information on my custom made
tours in France, Ireland, Burma and now Oman.