Oman

Oman is considered the gem of the Middle East and for obvious reasons. The country is changing at an unprecedented rate, never seen anywhere else before. If you have been to Oman few years back and visit it again today, the changes you will see will leave you flabbergasted. It's no more the same Oma ...read more n! It is far more developed, far more open and far more flashy today.
A lot is not known about Oman as a tourist country and whatever is known, a lot of it turns out to be misconceptions. This is the very reason why tourists who have had a first hand experience of traveling in Oman find the country most enthralling. Oman in southwest Asia is bordered by UAE in northwest, Saudi Arabia in west, Yemen in southwest and Arabian sea in east. Its topography too is as diverse as its past and present. The deserts stretching far beyond the horizons, dotted with ocean blue oasis and unexplored forts, coastline on the other side with stunning beaches, is what defines Oman. The deserts are as full of adventure opportunities as the beaches. In fact desert safari and camel rides in the middle of a desert have become the most indulged in activity in Oman. The other thing that you will notice from the moment you enter the country till you leave, is the special care given to keep the country shinning clean. No matter at what pace the country is modernizing, it deeply respects its Islamic traditions, and clings on its cultural roots showing them off very proudly. The people of Oman are not only traditional in rituals, they hold their guest in high respect and are utterly friendly. The mosques are still one of the biggest attractions of the country. You just don't want to miss the opportunity to get a look at the famous Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. The cities of Oman give a view of two extremely different worlds. One that is running fast to catch up in the rat race of becoming the most developed countries in the world and the other which is content with its glorious past, radiant culture and laid back life. Muscat, which is the capital and the largest city of Oman is the one that is a part of both the world. The Zawawi Mosque, Ruwi Mosque and Museum of Omani Heritage are few of the many attractions that are present in the city. Other major cities of Oman are Sohar, Ruwi and Masirah. [-]