Introduction to Muscat, Oman

After cruising down the Red Sea, the ship I was on docked at Muscat, Oman, on Nov. 7, 2016, and I disembarked.

Taxi cabs were readily available just outside the dockyard gate, and American dollars were accepted by the drivers, giving visitors the convenience of not initially needing local currency to pay.

When I researched hotels in Muscat, it became clear that there were many. I narrowed down my decision based on cost and the part of the city I wanted to stay.

I chose Hotel ibis Muscat (phone +968 244 89890, www.ibis.com/gb/hotel-6587-ibis-muscat/index.shtml) in the Al Khuwair district, where I stayed three nights. For a room with a private bath, I paid about $113 per night for three nights. Breakfast was not included.

From the hotel, it was a reasonable walk to Burger King, TGI Fridays and K.M.Hypermarket. Several banks and money exchanges were also located in the district. While I was there, $100 equaled 38 Omani rials.

The Oman Natural History Museum was located across the highway. It was a great place to escape the midday heat and learn about animals endemic to Oman.

Apparently related to the heat, businesses have custom hours during which they function. A retail store or travel agency will open at 7 a.m., close at 11 a.m. and reopen again in the afternoon.

A visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (Sultan Qaboos Street) is a must for any visitor. The first prayer building I entered there (after removing my shoes, of course) was one utilized by women, and women guides were on duty to answer questions. (For example, how could the craftsmen carve the detailed, arabesque pattern on the large wall panels without cracking the wood? A computer assisted in the process.)

The Grand Mosque, itself, is gigantic. One reference said it had taken 600 women four years to make the carpet for the prayer hall.

By taking a taxi to the opposite side of the city, it was easy to reach the famous Mutrah Souq. This market seemed a bit touristy, but it serves a practical purpose. Items ranging from postcards to rugs can be found there. With a little imagination, one could picture the present-day activity taking place centuries ago.

As in many large cities, a hop-on hop-off Big Bus Tours service was available. A 24-hour ticket for an adult cost OMR26 ($68).

Visiting Muscat was an enjoyable experience. I found English to be spoken everywhere — in hotels, banks, restaurants, tourist attractions and taxis. It was easy to travel around the city, although taxis were expensive.

There was no problem whatsoever with the food. 

Travelers could receive current news from the Muscat Daily, a newspaper published in English. 

It should be noted that a visa is required to enter the country (officially known as the Sultanate of Oman).

Being nearer to the airport, the Al Khuwair area proved to be a useful location when it was time to leave Muscat. The Muscat International Airport was well managed, and the boarding process for the 8-hour flight from Muscat to London/Heathrow was quick and simple.

JOHN C. KIRCHGESNER

Demarest, NJ