Footprints Travel mag Feb-Apr 2011

Vol. 1, Issue 3 , February-April 2011, Autumn Special

Oman’s first premier travel magazine

View from the top

Oman-Trail

Globe-Trail

The View at Hail Al Shas Bait Al Safah: A live example Al Hamra: Steeped in history Bimmah sinkhole & more

A Gite experience Elephant orphanage Taman Negara national park Yoga destinations, places to visit before you die & more

Readers Forum

White lions – the high point If there was a high point in your last issue, (issue 2, August – October, 2010), it was indeed the tale of the white lions of Al Ain. The pictures were amazing and it was really a delight to read about the two-and-ahalf year old brother-sister white lions, Sanbona and Shamwari, of Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort (AWPR).

We are going to Al Ain

We must really appreciate the efforts of the AWPR in

There is a real wildlife park in Al Ain? I have been living in Oman for

this regard. Their noble aim of raising these two rare

so many years, yet, this is the first time that I am hearing about it. Al

lions in captivity spells the urgent need to understand

Ain is not too far off and I am surely going to take a peek, or rather,

that the African lion needs protection from extinction.

more than a peek, of these delightful animals at the AWPR. It was a

Sanbona and Shamwari thus become the real

real eye opener for me to learn that there are 4300 animals, out of

ambassadors for their wild cousins. Kudos to the

which, 30 percent are said to be endangered. The lions are amazing,

AWPR and kudos to the Footprints for sharing this

and I can’t wait to take my family to see them and the rest of the

story with all of us!

animals there during these holidays. Thank you Footprints!

Farhan Ahmed, Muscat

Namita Bharadwaj, Al Khuwair

E-mail your letters to footprints@blackandwhiteoman.com

Zoo project in Musannah Reading about Al Ain park (AWPR) made me really wonder why we cannot have a similar set up in Oman too? Maybe someone should actually start it here in Oman. I am an animal lover and I am sure if someone or some big corporate moots this idea, many others with a similar bent of mind might join and take up this cause.

Also, looking after animals is an amazing experience. I have, in the past, looked after several animals and am actually thinking of converting my small farm in Musannah into a mini zoo. Not now, maybe some five or six years later. But, that is a dream I will fulfill.

Great story and it has served as an inspiration for me to rethink on this zoo project.

Mazar Al Balushi, Musannah

Excellent article on Zanzibar ‘A journey through the ancient theatre’ Zanzibar by Aisha Abdullah Al-Kharusi in the last issue of Footprints was one of the finest short articles ever written (that I have read of) on Zanzibar. I thoroughly enjoyed the article and I would like to roundly congratulate the author for her efforts in bringing together a live feature on a place I love so much.

Any story or article when infused with a personal touch brings out that element too. And this is quite evident in Aisha Al-Kharusi’s piece.

I look forward to reading more of the author’s articles in the future too.

Khalfan Touqi, Al Khoud

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August-October 2010

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C o n t e n t s Editor-in-chief Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Managing editor Priya Arunkumar Work editor Adarsh Madhavan Design and production Beneek Siraj Photographer Najib Al Balushi Advt. & marketing Swithun Fernandes, Aloni Mehta, Priyanka Sampat Printers Oman Printers

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10 presentation

Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOC Postal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan Qaboos Office location: Hatat House, Office no: 212, II Floor Ph: 24565697 Fax: 24565496 e-mail: footprints@blackandwhiteoman.com

G lobe-Tr a il

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On the cover

A joint venture with Zahara Travel and Service Bureau

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Design: Beneek Siraj, Photo: Andreas Kern 6

February-April 2011

Pachyderms on the Pearl The Pinnawala elephant sanctuary is very popular among local and foreign tourists. The sanctuary offers a virtual elephant reality show, with the opportunity to observe the bathing elephants from the river bank Some nights in the Malaysian jungle The Taman Negara National Park in Central Malaysia is a haven for nature activities and offers visitors and travellers, especially the adventurous and curious ones, a never-ending opportunity to explore Malaysia’s rich, natural treasure of unspoilt verdant jungles, rivers and mountains

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Glo b e -T ra i l

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Trip to tranquility‌ A group of 14 friends in France made a three day trip to a Gite in the interior. A detailed report of their fun-filled trip

7 places to visit before you die Your mission in life would be incomplete if you don’t visit these places. Visit them before you die.

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Time stands still in Bait Al Safah Bait Al Safah is a 400-year old mud house built during the Yaroub dynasty, which today gives an insight into the lifestyle of the Omanis of a bygone era

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The view from The View If you are looking for a weekend getaway far from the madding crowd in Oman, there is no other better place than The View, which offers an amazing view of Al Hamra village

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View from Hail Al Shas The Hail Al Shas is a quaint old village perched atop the mountainous area above Al Hamra, just next to The View February-April 2011

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Friend, philosopher & guide

Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Editor-in-chief

Tribute to the past Sometimes, the past is a necessity. Most of us may

culture and traditions, passed on to them and tend

tend to forget about our personal past, but, then,

to create their own! And that is when the actual

we can’t forget our roots, our tradition, the culture

happenings of the past sadly get corrupted by the

and the ways and the happenings of the past…we

tongues of the new as they interpret the times of

can’t forget our ancestors and the way they have

yore to their own taste. But, not all.

lived in… which is why we need to preserve the happenings of yesteryear.

Recently, the Footprints team stumbled on a young Omani, Badr Mohammed Al Dahli, who has taken

And that is what people, societies and nations…

up a project in his native town of Al Hamra and

have been striving to do. They are attempting to

created a live museum, Bait Al Safah, unique to

preserve their rich heritage and culture, sometimes

Oman and the AGCC region.

without even the help of science and technology.

We research, plan and archive traditions, costumes,

Walk in to the 350 year old traditional Omani home

and antiques to save the past for our future…

and you will meet an old couple, Muhanah bin Nasser and his wife Nasra, who are actually living

But, a major challenge for younger generations is the

there. They will take you through a day in an Omani

confusion surrounding what constitutes traditional

household…400 years back!

ways. Why did their ancestors resort to hold on

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to traditional values, traditional methods and the

What better way to preserve tradition than to live

like? These aspects are lost on many among the

those traditions in your day to day lives? What do

younger generation. Part of the confusion is due to

you say? Kudos to Badr and his team for recreating

claims of knowledge about the traditional ways by

and preserving the past in its trueness. I can only

various sources. Most people miscomprehend the

say that this is a fitting tribute to the past!

February-April 2011

Globe-Trail

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November-January 2010-2011

on the Pearl Words: Ben Snyder Photographs: Priya Arunkumar

November-January 2010-2011

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Globe-Trail

L

Elephant feeding ittle Appu blew his small trumpet

Just some minutes ago, the whole herd –

and rumbled up to his two-legged

right down from the babies to lumbering

master, who was holding a large milk

adults and even some handicapped ones

bottle in his hand. Appu is no more than

-- had trooped into the eating area for

three feet tall. He bumps into his master,

their lunch. While the babies were fed

nuzzles him and then proceeded to

with milk, the larger elephants were fed

thirstily drink from the bottle. Soon, his

with native greens like coconut palms,

baby brothers and sisters followed him

jackfruit tree leaves and kitul tree logs.

and they all vied to be fed. Cameras

The elephants are watered, bathed and

whirred from the background as each

fed at proper timings. The daily routine

tourist photographer tried to capture the

begins at 8am, when the elephants are

images of these cute little pachyderms

taken out of their stalls and allowed

being bottle fed with milk drooling from

to graze for about two hours. Around

either side of their mouths.

10.30am, they are taken to the nearby river known as Ma Oya.

It is 1.30pm and lunchtime for the residents of the elephant orphanage

In fact, most tourists to this ‘Pearl

in Pinnawala, Sri Lanka, a place for

of the Indian Ocean’ (as Sri Lanka is

abandoned and wounded elephants to

known) make a beeline to the elephant

recover.

orphanage at Pinnawala, and then wait in anticipation to see the herd taken for their morning bath to Ma Oya.

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February-April 2011

Worth seeing Elephants walking obediently in a single file along the gravel pathway to the river have always been cited as a sight “worth

Bathing beauties

seeing�.

The orphanage is very popular among

Proper arrangements have been made

local and foreign tourists. The main

for the tourists to sit in the shade, enjoy

attraction is the opportunity to observe

their choice drink and delicious food and

the bathing elephants from the broad

watch the elephants frolic in the flowing

river bank as the herd interact socially,

waters of Ma Oya.

bathing and playing.

Some of the elephants are seen lying

It is open to the public, daily and all

down in the water and happy mahouts

admission fees are used to look after

scrubbing the bodies of these gentle

the elephants. Visitors to the park can

giants. After their water fun, they are

view many different aspects of the care

taken for their lunch and then again taken

and daily routine of the elephants, bottle

back to the river.

feeding of the baby elephants, feeding of adult elephants, and of course, bathing.

Shelter for the wounded

The aim of the orphanage is to simulate

The elephant orphanage was started

nature.

in 1975 by the Wildlife Department of Sri Lanka on a 25-acre coconut land

(* Not sure if there are more)

near the Ma Oya river. The objective was to provide a shelter for abandoned, place where they will be fed and cared for before resettlement.

Apparently, the orphanage has the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. Most of the elephants are healthy, while, one (*) is known to be blind and another, which has lost its front right leg to a landmine.

REACHING THERE:

stranded and wounded elephants; a

Located in the district of Kegalle, in the province of Sabaragamuwa, the Pinnawala elephant sanctuary is about 87kms from the capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo.

To reach Pinnawala by road from Colombo, one has to travel along the Colombo-Kandy highway, and near the 82nd milepost, turn towards the village Rambukkana. If travelling by train, one has to get down at the Rambukkana railway station and it is about two kilometers from there.

February-April 2011

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February-April 2011

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Globe-Trail

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November-January 2010-2011

Words: Rajesh Kumar Badhragiri Photographs: Byju Sirajudeen

November-January 2010-2011

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Globe-Trail

W

We felt like we were in some movie. e need to get away from it all

The house was picture perfect, isolated,

sometimes. And that is how and why we

and on top of a small hill. There was a

(around 14 friends, including families) got

beautiful lake nearby, verdant hills and

far, far away from the madding crowd to

greenery in plenty. And more importantly,

a Gite (*) recently.

peace and tranquility in abundance!

The Gite was in Lascombes, which

There was a small room outside the

was around 140kms from Toulouse, in

house where we had arrangements for

France. The house was on top of a small

table tennis, dart games and Petanque.

hill, surrounded by a lake. Perfect setting

Another important member of the team

in perfect company. We made merry for

was Tituf, the friendly dog of the house

three days at the Gite and it was one

owner, who became our pet.

of the most memorable and exciting experiences of our lifetime.

The team, on the whole, was happy and they slowly moved around the house

The Gite owner was French and she

to just get the feel for the place. Every

could hardly speak English, but she made

member of the team had felt that they

up for that with her warmth. She took us

were in a different planet altogether.

around the house somehow managing

Isolated, no worries, their mind was

to convey to us the lovely places to visit

really relaxed and the element of joy

around the area.

was palpable. We ate, drank, danced the night away, and all our work, all our problems seemed far, far away and as insignificant. We drowned our problems with some mouthwatering veg and non veg barbecue items.

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February-April 2011

We all were set for the trip to the cheese In the hall they also displayed prototypes

factory in Roquefort. Roquefort cheese

Weather was a worry, especially when

of various phases during the construction.

is famous in France. This village is at a

the forecasts seemed grim, gloomy and

After an hour of visit and photography we

distance of 220kms from Toulouse.

cloudy. But, Mother Nature never let us

went to see a gorge which was 75 kms

down. It was bright and sunny the next

away from the bridge.

morning, and we enjoyed a sensational, continental

breakfast,

replete

The drive to the cheese factory from our Gite was wonderful. The landscapes on

with

On the way we soothed our eyes and

the way were mind-blowing; I can assure

delicacies, breads, milk, cheese, jams,

senses viewing the amazing landscapes.

that we had not seen such beautiful

corn flakes, eggs... What a perfect way

But, as it was getting dark and also

greenery in our life. On the way to the

to start the day!

drizzling, we had no other choice but

cheese factory our GPS crashed and we

to drop our plans to visit the gorge and

had to drive with signboards as reference.

After breakfast some of us took the car to

head back to our Gite.

visit places around the Gite, some played

We reached the factory after a 45 minutes

table tennis, while others busily tried to

Returning to the Gite, we swung into a

drive. At the Roquefort–Papillion cheese

calm their girlfriends for previous nights’

realm of fun, relaxation and gorged on a

factory, we viewed a 15 minutes video on

spats.

new set of delicacies – hot fried chickens,

the history and evolution of this brand.

Indian flavoured bajjis to counter the cold We all regrouped at the Gite at 12 noon

weather outside. This evening it was a

After the short film, we visited the

and moved off to the Millau Bridge. Millau

retro party where we played songs from

factory interiors where pretty young

is a village at a distance of 192kms from

the early 1960s and 1970s. The dance

women explained the various stages in

Toulouse. Significance of the bridge is

and the dancers were the same. The

cheese making. Some of our friends had

that its center pillar is taller than Eiffel

dinner was special with rotis and spicy

purchased cheese and other products

Tower.

vegetable curry.

that were on sale in the factory.

We rocked the village roads and the

The next morning was a bit dull, with

We then had travelled to a nearby village

cars zoomed towards Millau, which was

clouds covering the sun. So, we chose

for food and snacks. We were driving

60kms away from our Gite. We were

to explore the lake near the Gite. There

around the place for almost 30 minutes

struck by the beauty of the landscape,

were two huge windmills near the Gite,

to find parking and another 20 minutes to

which was on the banks of a river.

which also serve as landmarks. Near the

find a place to set food.

Although it was a detour from our trip, it

windmill was a vast vacant field where

was a pleasant interlude.

we decided to play cricket and seven

Some of us wanted to trek and they left the

stones, but due to the excess velocity of

Gite in the dark hours. Tituf accompanied

The landscape had peace and tranquility

the winds we had to abandon the cricket

them and they had a wonderful time

written all over it and there was also a

plans.

during the trek. It was dark and the way

small park for children nearby the river.

ahead was not visible.

It had slides, see-saw, swings etc…

Sunday afternoon lunch was extra special

and for some moments, we let our hair

with spicy chicken curry, chicken fries for

The team managed to move around

down, behaving like excited kids. We

the non-vegetarians and vegetable curry

valleys, flowing water with only a torch

also made a short visit to the river and

with bajjis for the vegetarians.

and successfully completed their journey.

then continued on our journey towards the bridge, which we reached within the next half an hour.

The bridge was an engineering marvel, an excellent blend of science and technology. A 10 minutes video of the bridge’s construction at the expo hall lent us an insight into its intricate construction.

The team managed to move around valleys, flowing water with only a torch and successfully completed their journey. It was a real challenge, in an unknown place, with no proper trekking equipments and so all had a feeling of accomplishment February-April 2011

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Globe-Trail

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February-April 20112010-2011 November-January

November-January February-April 2010-2011 2011

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Globe-Trail

It was a real challenge, in an unknown place,

with

no

proper

All good things have to come to an end.

trekking

Mouth watering delicacies, food from

And, on reflection, the three days felt like

equipments and so all had a feeling of

various cultural regions of India – North,

some joyous marriage celebrations, with

accomplishment. The trek team returned

South, East, West. I should say our taste

all members active, chatting and happy.

late in the evening.

buds were for a real test. We were not

This trip had all the flavours, strong

able to identify a standout item, all were

bonds amidst the team, an opportunity

equally good.

to know each other, peaceful moments

Sunday night’s dinner was the best, as we had our traditional biriyani and curry,

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with Mother Nature.

which tantalised our taste buds. It would

Dessert needs a special mention here;

be an injustice, if I failed to mention in my

and, as far as the food was concerned,

(*) Gite is a house rented for a weekend

article about the food, drinks, snacks we

we never felt that we had even stepped

or for a week or more, away from the

had during those three days.

out of our homes.

cities.

February-April 2011

Millau Bridge Millau is a village at a distance of 192kms from Toulouse. Significance of the bridge is that its center pillar is taller than Eiffel Tower

February-April 2011

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Globe-Trail

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February-April 2011

Some nights in the

We put our heads out of the tent, sucked in the jungle air, stared at the stars above and quietly listened to the night music. The nights at Taman Negara National Park in central Malaysia is always full of life.

November-January February-April 2010-2011 2011

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Globe-Trail

Don’t walk off the path

W

e had rented out a tent and

other camping equipment from the park headquarters and then camped in an open space surrounded by the jungle. Of course, there were other campers too, but, the experience was really something.

My wife and I had never pitched camp in the middle of the jungle and this was quite an experience.

We camped for three days and it was the most unbelievable experience ever.

And the nights, although it was difficult to sleep through the night sounds in the jungle, was still a different experience.

In the mornings, we went walking and although we did not see elephants or other wild animals (which they say are there), it was still exciting because of the anticipation the whole journey raised.

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Feebrrua Feb February-April ruaryru ry Apr Apprrill 2011 201 0 1

But, the wild, big trees, the dense

Camping is just the tip of the iceberg at

vegetation and the insects and small

the Taman Negara park, which is one

animals can engross you forever. The

of the oldest, if not the oldest, unspoilt

jungle is teeming with life. There are

rainforests in the world. It is estimated to

thousands of insects, frogs, lizards and

have evolved over 130 million years.

innumerable other creatures. But, when we were camping, we were told that we

Haven for nature activities

should not go off the trail. Of course,

The park is a haven for other nature

we did and we had to pay the price.

activities like bird watching, wild-life

Once, we followed some leafy-looking

watching, boating, mountain climbing,

creatures into the woods off the main

caves exploring, jungle trekking, river

trail and then we got lost. We had gone

rafting,

just 100 to 150 metres off trail and then

suspended walkways, nighttime safaris

we realised why the officials had warned

and the like.

photography,

walking

on

us not to get off the track. You know it was in the morning hours, yet, when we

Taman

got lost, it seemed as though the jungle

travellers, especially the adventurous and

Negara

offers

visitors

and

had suddenly become dark. Besides this,

curious ones, a never-ending opportunity

it was hot and humid and we had our

to explore and experience Malaysia’s

clothes sticking to our skin.

rich natural treasure of unspoilt verdant jungles, rivers and mountains. During an

We did manage to find our way out of this

earlier visit to the park some years ago,

meandering jungle and vowed never to

we had just one day and we made the

veer off the path again.

most of it.

We went on the canopy walkway, of which

of the diverse plant and tree species.

feet). As a protected area, tree-cutting

there are only four or five in the world. For

Tall and huge trees stand imposingly in

or

those who have fear of heights, this is not

the jungle, like lords of the low species

development and activities are strictly

the place to be on. There are plenty of

below.

prohibited. So far no commercial logging

other such excitements at the park.

logging

and

other

commercial

has occurred.

Awed by the diversity

Located mainly in the delightful Malaysian

When you first enter the National park, you

state of Pahang, Taman Negara also

will perhaps feel awed and overwhelmed

straddles the borders of two other

by the richness, diversity and beauty of

states in the north, namely Kelantan

the plants and trees species there. This

and Terengganu. It is accessible via

is not surprising as one-third of all the

several popular and main access routes,

world’s flowering plants are found in

although there are other less developed

Malaysia.

access points.

You will find that the largest plant

With an area of 4,343 square kilometers

community in Taman Negara is the

(1,676 square miles) or more than a

lowland rainforest – where although

million acres, Taman Negara is the largest

trees are dominant, they co-exist with

park and the most extensive protected

other plant forms like shrubs, parasites,

rainforest area in Malaysia.

climbers, lichens, fungi and others.

Besides the dense virgin jungle, it also To the herbal and plant naturalists, our

houses Peninsular Malaysia’s highest

advice is do take your time to identify

mountain in the Tahan Range, namely,

and marvel at the richness, age and sizes

Gunung Tahan at 2,187 meters (7,173

REACHING THERE:

Location, location, location

Taman Negara can be reached via three main park entrances. Of these, the most popular and easy – and the standard route for most travellers- is via Kuala Tahan.

The journey to Kuala Tahan is an exciting one requiring a road or rail as well as a river journey. The access routes to the other main parts of Taman Negara are generally adequate but problems may arise due to the less developed public transport available.

FeebbruuaryFeb Fe February-April y-Apr yApppril 2011 Apr 201 011

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Globe-Trail

Pulau Redang (Redang Island) Situated about 45kms off the coast of Terengganu, Pulau Redang is the largest of the state’s island. It is famous for its picture-postcard views and fabulous dive sites. The most popular stretch is the 800m Long Beach. It has one large resort and many smaller chalets lining the shore. Further away on the northeastern coast is Teluk Dalam Kecil, a sheltered cove that houses a five star resort. Berjaya Air, a private carrier, provides direct air links to the island. Alternatively, Redang is accessible by sea. The jumping-off points are the Shahbandar Jetty situated in Kuala Terengganu town, or Merang Jetty, situated about an hour’s drive from Kuala Terengganu.

Must Do: • Snorkeling at the Marine Park • Explore the 31 dive sites on the Island • Take a walk along the breathtaking Long Beach • Play beach volleyball • Enjoy a jungle walk to see monkeys, squirrels and birds

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November-January February-April 2010-2011 2011

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Globe-Trail

places to visit before you die Regardless of whether you are bitten by the travel bug or not, there are some places that you MUST visit before it is…well, time to go.

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February-April 2011

February-April 2011

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T

here is no point in fretting about

a time when you have to go; some go

Here is a random list, which we hope to

early, others, late. But, whatever, just

update in every issue of the Footprints.

remember the adage that if you are still alive, it only means that your mission is

Taj Mahal

The Great Wall of China

not yet complete. And one of the most

This mausoleum located in Agra, India, is

The Great Wall of China was built in

important items among your missions

one of the most recognisable structures in

the Qin, Han and Ming dynasties as

could be the lovely places that you have

the world. It is an incredible architectural

defensive

to visit.

wonder of our more modern world, and

warring states periods of the Yan, Zhao

one of the most beautiful buildings in

and Qin dynasties. However, it did

Sometimes, it may cost a pretty penny to

the world. Built by the Mughal emperor

not become known as the Great Wall

visit these places (no, not all though), but

Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife,

until the Qin dynasty. The construction

what the heck, you can’t take it with you

Mumtaz Mahal, it is widely considered as

required an army of labour that included

anyway and if you should die in pursuit of

one of the most beautiful buildings in the

soldiers, prisoners and average people

completing this list, then you would have

world and stands as a symbol of eternal

to complete the more than 4163 miles of

died seeing what only a handful of other

love.

the wall. With a history of more than 2000

people would have seen in their lifetime.

during

the

years, this is one destination that cannot Taj Mahal is the finest example of Mughal

be missed out on.

Forget what you have seen or heard,

architecture, a style that combines

the world is a beautiful place and some

elements from Persian, Islamic and

The Great Pyramids of Egypt

places are much more striking than you

Indian architectural styles. In 1983, the

One of the eight wonders of the world

could ever imagine. It can be engineering

Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World

and an incredible sight to behold, the

marvels like the Taj Mahal or Frank Lloyd

Heritage Site.

pyramids certainly make our top list. It

Wright’s Fallingwater House; a hike

is believed that the pyramid was built

across Grand Canyon or a ride along

as a tomb for fourth dynasty Egyptian

China’s Yangtze River, or even a sun rise

pharaoh Khufu and constructed over a

over Machu Picchu or seeing Iguazu Falls

14 to 20-year period.

by the light of a full moon...

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fortifications

February-April 2011

Khufu’s vizier, Hemon, or Hemiunu, is believed by some to be the architect

Serengeti

of the Great Pyramid. It is thought that,

The Serengeti in Tanzania hosts the

a mammoth. The word ‘museum’ may

at construction, the Great Pyramid

largest migration in the world, which is

even be unfitting when it comes to the

was originally 280 Egyptian cubits tall,

said to be one of the 10 natural travel

Louvre: the collections are so vast,

146.5 metres (480.6 ft) but with erosion

wonders. The region contains several

diverse, and breathtaking that visitors

and absence of its pyramidion, its

national

reserves.

may have the impression of navigating

present height is 138.8 metres (455.4

Serengeti is derived from the Maasai

a maze of distinct artistic and cultural

ft). The pyramid remained the tallest

language, Maa; specifically, ‘Serengit’

worlds. It has become the globe’s most-

man-made structure in the world for

meaning ‘Endless Plains’.

visited museum, and an enduring symbol

over 3,800 years, unsurpassed until the

Approximately 70 larger mammals and

of French excellence in the arts.

160-metre-tall spire of Lincoln Cathedral

some 500 avifauna species are found

was completed c. 1300.

there. This high diversity in terms of

Grand Canyon

species is a function of diverse habitats

The majestic Grand Canyon in the state

ranging from riverine forests, swamps,

of Arizona in the United States is one of

Another incredible sight from the ancient

kopjes,

woodlands.

the seven natural wonders of the world

world, bringing home the power and

Blue Wildebeests, gazelles, zebras and

and the most visited national park in

might of ancient Rome. The Coliseum is

buffalos are some of the commonly found

North America. Called the ‘most sublime

truly colossal - it stands 50 meters (165

large mammals in the region.

spectacle on earth’, the Grand Canyon

The Coliseum in Rome

parks

and

grasslands

game

and

feet) high and measures 185 meters (600

is awe-inspiring, unimaginably huge and

feet) long. It was large enough to hold

Louvre

spectacularly beautiful. Sightseers gasp,

50,000 roaring spectators when it was

The Louvre is located on the bank of

artists rejoice and everyone feels humbled

inaugurated in 80 AD.

the Seine River, Paris, France. Originally

by the sight. Nothing can prepare one for

constructed as the fortress of Philippe

the enormity of the Grand Canyon, which

Today, it is one of the most dramatic,

Auguste in 1190, Charles V oversaw the

is 277 miles (446 km) long, 10 miles

historic and recognised archaeological

first modernisation process (r. 1364-

(29km) wide and 1.83 miles (6000 feet)

monuments on earth. The Flavian Roman

1380), which resulted in what was to

deep. It is almost as if the heart and soul

emperors built the Coliseum of Rome for

be the beginnings of one of the largest

of the earth has suddenly been laid bare.

entertaining their subjects (and to distract

palace complexes in the world. As

their minds from the woes of the time).

museums go, the Louvre is quite simply

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The Coliseum in Rome The Coliseum is truly colossal - it stands 50 meters (165 feet) high and measures 185 meters (600 feet) long. It was large enough to hold 50,000 roaring spectators when it was inaugurated in 80 AD

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February-April 2011

Random

destinations for this holiday This holiday, getting in touch with your inner self should be your number one priority. Why not?

You deserve it! Many might dissuade you saying that you can’t try to find inner peace in a luxurious atmosphere… That is so far removed from the truth.

Today, yoga is a ‘must have’ at all luxury destinations, and a formal yoga retreat is a vacation experience you will always cherish.

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In fact, there are many resorts where yoga classes are offered on a daily basis. While instructors remain on site daily, you will also find them offering special retreats at least once a month with visiting instructors from around the world.

Some of these resorts also offer special spa treatments and even eco-excursions.

The truth is, yoga has quickly become one of the most sought-after forms of relaxation in the world.

And, stressed out men and women are forever on the lookout to learn yoga in order to gain both physical and mental balance and to find a sense of inner peace.

New yoga retreats are announced every year, not only at five-star locations, but in some of the world’s most secluded destinations as well. Take a look at this random selection:

Big EZ Lodge

US BOZEMAN, MONTANA Big Sky Yoga Retreats www.bigskyyogaretreats.com Located at 7,500 feet in the Madison

INDIA

mountain range an hour north of

Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute, Pune

entrenched in the heart of nature and

Yellowstone, the Big EZ Lodge is is the perfect complement to those

36

A must-visit place for any serious yoga practitioner, the institute is run by

seeking a quality yoga getaway. The

the indefatigable, 90-year-old grand old man of Indian yoga, B K S Iyengar,

lodge was built with native timber and

and his children. The Iyengar school emphasises in-depth study of asanas

natural river rock throughout, which

(anatomically correct postures) and pranayama (breathing).

brings the outdoor elements into the

It teaches students to adapt and modify their exercise routine depending on

13 well-appointed guest rooms and

the environment. Situated in Pune, 250 kilometers (155 miles) from Mumbai,

common areas. Inspiration from the

the institute caters to advanced students of yoga.

wonderful setting is the big draw,

So before packing your mat and heading for India, learn the basics from a

where yoga is combined with the great

certified Iyengar teacher in your country. Admission for a month-long $450

outdoors through nature hikes and

course is selective, and you

outdoor activities after yoga sessions

can spend up to 18 months

that focus on technique. Views are

on a wait list. Those who

awesome and starlit nights under the

make the cut have to make

big sky are the norm, but don’t be

their

arrangements

afraid to indulge in the fine mountain-

for boarding and lodging in

themed cuisine and offerings on the

Pune. Iyengar, called Guruji,

wine list. A game room, workout room

or master, counts global

and a large hot tub, complete with

celebrities such as Annette

waterfall, is a great way to end each

Bening among his students.

day at this mountain getaway.

own

February-April 2011

NEPAL Pokhara Pokhara has recently been cited as Nepal’s top yoga destination. About 2,900 feet above sea level and 1,000 miles from the nearest ocean, it’s a city of 200,000 smack in the middle of Nepal. It has a busy downtown strip where, for years, trekkers and thrifty backpackers have come, many to pick up supplies before heading out on the Annapurna Range. These days, it’s the silence in the hills that is calling.

About a dozen back-to-basics yoga retreats have opened in and around Pokhara in recent years, transforming this once-partying hub into what might be Nepal’s top yoga destination. For those wanting a quiet place to meditate, away from the crowds, this is it.

CANADA Salt Spring Island, British Columbia Paradise Found Yoga www.paradisefoundyoga.com Specialising in Kundalini Yoga, Paradise Found Yoga offers both scheduled and private retreats with two daily yoga classes as well as meditation, art therapy and spa sessions that include aromatherapy, hot stone Shiatsu massages, reflexology and Reiki. Take advantage of

BRAZIL

the hiking excursions on the shorelines of Cusheon Lake on Salt Spring

Sao Carlos, São Paulo

Island. Relax in the gardens, enjoy the vegetarian meals, sink into the

Jatoba Terra Prana Lar Yoga

outdoor hot tub and enjoy the individual attention that comes with

www.yogabrasil.com/nam.htm

allowing only eight guests at a time. And with only a dozen other homes on the lake, privacy is guaranteed in this picturesque setting.

Situated in the Brazilian countryside, Jatoba Terra Prana Lar Yoga retreats consist of meditation, mantras, Kundalini yoga, Yin yoga, Hatha yoga, partner yoga, Karma yoga, silent walks, sacred dances, fire rituals and Zen Shiatsu. The retreat also boats a sweat lodge, a fresh water pool, and the requisite vegetarian meals complete with homemade cheese, bread and yogurt.

Founder and former dancer Lila established the retreat on her family farm in 2000 after traveling the world and studying yoga. She also offers a children’s programme and a fresh organic garden designed to help you reconnect with mother earth. Be sure to take a trip to the nearby sacred waterfall, too.

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The view from

The View

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February-April 2011

T

here is something special about

the early morning skies, especially when

Paint, my love

you are gazing at it from an area of over

We pulled our caps tightly on to our

1400 feet above sea level. If it is before

head, adjusted the sweater’s flap on to

sunrise, then rest assured that you can

our necks in a bid to ward off the early

see God painting on an empty canvas. It

morning cold and then tried to video

is as though a large, invisible, paint brush

record this painting-in-process. After

was experimenting on it.

sometime we stopped shooting and slowly drank in the rise of the sun, from

A dab of red here, a bit of yellow there,

the far off mountains, with our naked eyes.

was that blue, yes, yes, and a tinge of

At our height, we could literally sweep the

orange there, then a swab of purple over

expanse in a complete semicircle.

there, a bit of black and then again yellow here, a bit of golden… a riot of colours

Above us in the sky, God was painting

merging and unmerging, coalescing and

and below us, a whole town was sleeping,

then diffusing and then swirling again…

unaware of nature’s lovely morning play.

The occupants of the tents (around 15 of

These are the moments before sunrise

them) behind where we were standing

atop a mountain above Al Hamra village,

were also slowly waking up to this reality,

which is around 200kms away from

more fascinating than a mere dream.

Muscat.

We, the early birds, wanted to see how the view from our vantage point would look like at dawn, as compared to the night and the late afternoon hours.

Best-ever views For, the mid-afternoon before, we had driven up an easy, but winding eight kilometers dirt track from Al Hamra village, which took us directly to ‘The View’, an eco-luxury property located right at the entrance of Hail Al Shas village.

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SERENE SETTING: The mountain top locale has ‘luxury’ written all over it. This ‘Eco Luxe’ retreat, is an ideal getaway with 15 exclusive luxury tents for a relaxed and comfortable stay

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A recent entry into the Sultanate’s tourism spots, The View, aptly named,

Far from the madding crowd

offers visitors an amazing view of Al

What is comforting at The View is the

Hamra village. Other than offering what

sheer silence that envelops the area,

could probably be one of the best-ever

especially when darkness falls. For those

The mountainous area also features

views possible in the many touristic

wanting to be far away from the madding

rocky promontories and steep gorges,

locations in the Sultanate, The View also

crowd, and those who are lovers of

which are also attractive for tourists.

hosts around 15-well appointed luxury

silence, this is the place to be, as we

Those merely wanting to view and ponder

tents replete with a nice-sized bathroom

found out on a recent trip there.

the majestic grandeur of the surrounding peaks and gorges are also likely to find in

and balcony views.

Perfect sanctuary

44

The View, an ideal location.

Luxury written all over

When we reached the locale at noontime,

The mountain top locale has ‘luxury’

most of the tourists had gone out for the

Ideal weekend getaway

written all over it, right from its entrance to

day. The beauty of The View is that it

In fact, The View has all the necessary

the sprawling tents, some of which have

offers itself as a perfect sanctuary in the

requirements for those wanting to get

direct view of the village. In other words,

midst of the mountainous arena. Those

away from it all. The silence of the locale,

those lucky enough to get these tents

wanting to trek or explore the mountain

the grandeur of the mountains, the

can sit on their own elevated balconies

area can do that at leisure and get back

impressive play of the stars above during

to have a view of their lifetime right from

to The View before dusk. The nearby

the night and the cool, at times cold, but

their tent. Others, who have obtained

locales include the famed mud houses

always pleasant, climate offers the best

the tents behind this area can still get

of Al Hamra, the traditional village of

weekend getaway.

down below the elevated balconies and

Misfat Al Abryeen, or the intriguing Al

enjoy the view from there. Corrugated

Hoota caves. The Bahla and Nizwa forts,

After all, what do you want from a

seats, hammocks and comfy chairs and

the Jibreen castle, the traditional Bahla

holiday? Relaxation, peace of mind, a bit

a nighttime campfire in the centre of the

pottery area are all easily accessible from

of quietness and in short, a place to chill

tents make it a delightful experience.

The View. To the west of Al Hamra is the

out, far from the madding crowd: At 1400

road to Jebel Shams (mountain of the

metres above sea level, this is one of the

sun), the tallest peak in Oman at 3010

best-ever luxury soaked spots that you

metres.

could escape to in Oman.

February-April 2011

The mountain top locale has ‘luxury’ written all over it, right from its entrance to the sprawling tents, some of which have direct view of the village

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February-April 2011

View from the top Wake up to the sun rise‌ curl in to the hammocks with your favourite book; wind it all up with the sun set and the fascinating night view of the glittering lights of Al Hamra village. Warm up to the campfires‌ The View looks down on almost the entire Wilayat of AI Hamra with the town of AI Hamra and its substantial date plantations creating a patchwork of green in the distance amid the brown hues of the mountains.

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Footprints also spoke to a young German couple, Iris Miltzow and Toralf Rustenbach, who were staying at The View about their impression of the area and also how they came to know of this locale.

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February-April 2011

I

ris and Toralf were visiting Oman for the first time. They were already smitten

by the country, its people and the topography. The icing on the cake was this stay atop The View, they chorused, adding that they were quite impressed by Oman.

“We always go to a different country on our vacations and this time, while browsing through the net, we came across Oman and we were quite intrigued. One thing led to another and we are now here in Oman and most importantly, enjoying the country from this superb mountain top locale,” the duo said.

Both were of the view that Oman was more than what they had imagined. “Though Oman is still not that well know in some parts of Germany, we were quite keen to try it out.

“Without doubt, this is a very safe country and there is genuine warmth among the people here, which is quite congenial for tourists. Especially for the first timers! It is very important for first time visitors to Oman, as first impression is quite often everything. “And, right now, sitting on top of The View, we feel quite safe and relaxed. This spot is awesome and quite a welcome change for us both.”

The German duo said that they found The View to be a focal point for them to visit all of the surrounding tourism locales, and at the same time enjoy the luxury of five-star accommodation on top of a mountain!

“In a nutshell, we can say that The View is like Oman’s topography, unique,

REACHING THERE:

different and in many ways, out of this world!”

A 2 ½ hrs drive from Muscat to Nizwa (175 kms), and a 45 minutes drive from Nizwa towards the direction of Al Hoota Caves, you will reach Al Hamra village (200kms).

An eight kms uphill drive takes you from Al Hamrah to Hail Al Shas village.

The View is located at 1,400 metres above sea level.

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February-April 2011

View from

Hail Al Shas

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B

aaa, a kid (baby goat) bleets as

it hurriedly tries to get out of our path from the little Hail Al Shas village, which

We made the traditional greetings to the

is perched atop the mountainous area

enthusiastic children and we asked them

above Al Hamra.

to take us to the elders there. From a small enclosed area, which served as a

The little one gets out of the path but

meeting point or a shelter, a middle aged

several nannies (mama goats) and Billies

man greeted us and ambled towards

(papa goats) jump into the fray and our

the car. This was Said bin Hamed bin

car swerves off the path again, trying to

Ruzaik Al Nasri.

avoid them.

A village of 100 people

Said bin Hamed Al Nasri

Some of the goats seem to be at ease

The latter, who was working as a security

with our 4WD, but others were a bit

staff of Al Hamra school, was only too

restless and they either moved in front or

glad to give us an idea about this quaint

got behind our vehicle, which made both

little village. “We are around 100 people,

to and fro movement, nigh to impossible.

that is around 20-odd families, here

So, we did the sanest thing possible –

currently,” Said Al Nasri said, adding that

that is to stop and get down as some

it was a very old village and all of them

kids of the village milled around the four-

were living here for generations. “This

wheeler.

village started off as a small settlement many, many years ago. Now, it has slowly grown to a village with 20 and more families.”

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Goats, goats, goats…

“What is our village famous for? Well, I would say we are primarily known for our goats – as you can see –,“ he said, sweeping his hand at the many frisky goats, which still played cat and mouse games with us, coming close and then skipping away.

The selling of goats are their main income source as well as staple food (meat as well as milk). “Goats – they are in plenty here and we are also lucky enough to have good supply of water,” Said Al Nasri added. He pointed to the electric posts and said off late, they were also blessed with power, thanks to the benevolence of the government, which ensured that the

Thanks to the rains, there is no shortage of water, and the village was also quite

“Besides, there is the trekking and cycling

green. “We are self-sufficient here and

trails too, so, there is lot of activity, which

we are hopeful that the future generations

is nice. “Sometimes, the trekkers, the

will strive to make this a better place to

cyclists come to our village and ask us to

live in.

pose for them, which we oblige!”

Right now, we have nothing to complain

Inaccessible

about because we are able to enjoy

Until 1994, this village was not accessible

pleasant climate throughout the year.

as there weren’t any roads, save for some

The winter, which is just starting, would

goat and natural trekking trails. “Then we

of course be quite cold. But, it is alright

depended on donkeys to travel up and

– it is different here, atop the mountain!”

down to Al Hamra, but not so now,” Said Nasri said.

Tourism makes the world closer, smaller Earlier, visitors would often just pass

Future bodes well

seen in ever nook and corner of Oman.

through, but off late, there are more

Today, he said, there were number of

visitors here than ever before, Said Nasri

them who went outside the village, got

The

pointed out. “I would say that this new

themselves educated and employed in

property (The View) is actually bringing

public and private sector organisations.

in many tourists here – and we always

“So, the future bodes well for us – we

welcome them, though not many are able

have only seen our village grow, although

to converse with us or vice versa.

slowly, but that is how we like it to be!”

sweep of modernity and development is

village

children

also

get

their

education from the schools located below their village. “Most of our children study in schools in Al Hamra and Nizwa,” Said Nasri said.

54

Green village

February-April 2011

REACHING THERE:

The Hail Al Shas village is just a hop, skip and jump away from The View. You could take the trail on the right of The View and keep going straight until you reach this mountain top village.

Dried – but tasty Marinated meat – spiced and dried up and stored for future – pieces beaded through strings are hung on the makeshift shelters for future consumption.

Goat milk and meat are the staple diet for the villagers of Hail Al Shas.

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Time stands still in

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February-April 20112010-2011 November-January

November-January February-April 2010-2011 2011

57

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February-April 20112010-2011 November-January

Inspiring locale 400-year old mud houses built during the Yarouba dynasty

November-January 2010-2011

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Helloooooo... Crispy Rukhal anyone?

Adding on to the tales of the historic past of Bait Al Safah, the womenfolk made us some wafer-thin crispy Rukhal bread and piping hot Omani kahwa

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February-April 2011

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Clouds come and go Even the pitter patter of rains disappear Bursting into smithereens on the rooftops…

But, I grind on, for I can’t stop…

I have mouths to feed Even when the rains stop…

I have mouths to feed Even though the rains may stop…

S

At the Bait Al Safah, the songs must ixty year old Saada Al Abri sings

play on…This 400-year old mud house

this semi-plaintive and hummable Arabic

built during the Yarouba dynasty, many

song as she slowly, rhythmically, grinds

hundreds of years ago, is an inspiring

the cereals in line with her folksy tune.

locale, and so are the lively old and

But, she does not stop when visitors

young Omanis there. It is considered to

stop by to see her work. Instead, she just

be one of the most important landmarks

pauses between her song and explains

in the history of the region because it

the meaning of the words to us…

showcases the lifestyle of the Omani ancestors and gives an insight to visitors and locals of a bygone era. It is today a living example of life in Al Hamra prior to the renaissance of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

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February-April 2011

This four-storey building was originally the permanent residence of a prominent family of Al Hamra, and later it was

Meeting the old Omani couple, Salim bin

Nasra roasted peanuts from the side,

restored by the owner’s grandchildren.

Marhoon bin Salim Al Abri and his wife,

while her colleague greeted us with a

After that, the current owners, with the

Nasra bint Ali bin Mubarak Al Abri proved

very cheery and musical ‘Hellooo!”

help of the tourism ministry opened its

to be a double delight.

To soak in the history of a bygone era,

doors to the public and since then have

a visit to Bait Al Safah is a must. Most

been receiving tourists from Oman,

While Salim spun tales of the historic

tourists who are now visiting The View

region and around the world. Muhanna

past of Bait Al Safah, Nasra took us to

make it a point to take a tour of Bait Al

bin Nasser Al Abri is the current owner.

her kitchen, where her colleague made

Safah.

us taste some wafer thin crispy Rukhal Khadra Tourism, a locally based tourist

bread, and piping hot Omani kahwa.

(Entry to Bait Al Safah is OMR1)

agency, is currently looking after the monument and has outlined a daily programme, which includes folklore and traditional Omani dances alongside an exhibition of traditional handicrafts.

We were greeted at the entrance by Sheikhan Hamad bin Mohammed Al Dahly, a young and enterprising Omani lad who took us around the monument.

Sheikhan was appointed by Badr bin Said bin Mohammed Al Dahly, the manager of the Bait Al Safah project, to guide tourists in the mansion. He also helped us try on some of the Omani traditional dresses, including

the

dishdashas,

turbans,

women’s dresses and head covers.

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February-April 2011

P

raba Iyer, a tourist from the USA, dipped her toes into the blue-green

crystal clear waters and immediately some little fish went and nibbled on them.

Tourists from all over make a quick and refreshing stopover at the Bimmah Sinkhole, which is around 6kms from Dibab, along the coast, on the graded road from Muscat to Sur. The sinkhole, which is about 500 metres inland and 40 metres wide and 20 metres deep, is in the middle, in a fenced off area, of a park called the Hawiyat Najm or Sinkhole park. The sinkhole connects all the way to the sea.

Apparently, the green and blue colours are a result of the salty water meeting with fresh water. Praba wanted to go for a swim in the waters, but she had not come equipped for the same, so postponed the swim for another time. Most tourists and locals often go for a proper swim in the waters of the sinkhole.

Geologists say that the sinkhole was created when a limestone cavern collapsed, while the locals say a piece of the moon fell from the sky to make this hole. The underwater tunnel leads to sea, which is 500metres away. The sinkhole is ‘tourists friendly’ and has concrete steps leading down to the pool.

There are a couple of shelters and also toilets at the entrance. There is an

REACHING THERE:

attendant at the entrance, but no entry charge for the park.

Take the Amerat road towards Quriyat direction. Go straight towards Sur and you will find the Bimmah Sink hole signposted towards the right, on the mountain side. Turn right and enter the curved road towards the coast.

February-April 2011

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February-April 2011

Tourist friendly Bimmah The sinkhole is ‘tourist friendly’ and has concrete steps leading down to the pool.

February-April 2011

67

Information

Traveller’s guide Airlines Flight Information (24 hours): 24 519456 Aeroflot: 24 704455 Air Arabia 24 700828 Air France 24 562153 Air India 24 799801 Air New Zealand 24 700732 Biman Bangladesh Airlines 24 701128 British Airways 24 568777 Cathay Pacific 24 789818 Egypt Air 24 794113 Emirates Air 24 792222 Ethiopian Airlines 24 660313 Gulf Air (toll-free number) 800 72424 Indian Airlines 24 791914 Iran Air 24 787423 Japan Airlines 24 704455 Jazeera Airways 23 294848 Jet Airways 24 796680 Kenya Airways 24 660317 KLM 24 566737 Kuwait Airways 24 701262 LOT Polish Airlines 24 796387 Lufthansa 24 796692 Malaysian Airlines 24 560796 Middle East Airlines 24 796680 Oman Air 24 707222, 24519953 PIA 24 792471 Qatar Airways 24 771900 Qantas 24 559941 Royal Jordanian 24 796693 Saudi Arabian Airlines 24 789485 Singapore Airlines 24 791233 Sri Lankan Airlines 24 784545 Sudan Airways 24816565 Swiss Air 24 787416 Syrian Airways 24797567 Thai Airways 24 705934 Turkish Airlines 24 475030 Art galleries Al Madina Art Gallery Bait Muzna Gallery Omani Heritage Gallery Omani Society for Fine Arts Raj Relics 99329842 Yitti Art Gallery Bookshops Borders Family Bookshop, Qurm Madinat as Sultan Qaboos Turtles House of Prose (Used books) Cinemas Al Nasr Cinema Al Shatti Plaza 68

August-October 2010

24691380 24739204 24696974 24694969 24564297

24558089 24564391 24600084 24696217 24564356

24831358 24693557

Markaz al Bahja Cinema Stars Cinema

24540855 24791641

Embassies and consulates Algeria 24 605593 Austria 24 793135 Bahrain 24 605074 Bangladesh 24 567379 Belgium 24 562033 Canada 24 788890 Chile 24 561977 China 24 696698 Colombia 24 816264 Cyprus 24 490200 Denmark 24 526000 Egypt 24 600411 Finland 24 701454 France 24 681800 Germany 24 832164 Greece 24 706648 Holland 24 603706 India 24 814120 Iran 24 696944 Iraq 24 604178 Ireland 24 797083 Italy 24 693727 Japan 24 601028 Jordan 24 692760 Korea 24 691490 Kuwait 24 699627 Lebanon 24 695844 Malaysia 24 698329 Mexico 24 561977 Morocco 24 696152 Mozambique 24 594207 Netherlands 24 603719 Norway 24 603706 Pakistan 24 603439 Palestine 24 601312 Philippines 24 605140 Portugal 24 561400 Qatar 24 691153 Russian Federation 24 602894 Rwanda 24 487978 Saudi Arabia 24 601744 Somalia 24 697977 South Africa 24 694793 Spain 24 691101 Sri Lanka 24 697841 Sudan 24 697875 Sweden 24 708693 Switzerland 24 568202 Syria 24 697904 Taiwan 24 605695 Tanzania 24 601174 Thailand 24 602684 Tunisia 24 603486 Turkey 24 697050 United Arab Emirates 24 600988 United Kingdom 24 609000

Uruguay USA Yemen Libraries Bibliothèque Française: British Council Knowledge and Learning Centre: Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry: Public Technical Library Science: United States Information Service: Raspberry’s Books: Museums Bait Adam 99356676 Bait Al Baranda Bait Al Zubair Children’s Museum 24605368/9 Currency Museum Muscat gate Museum Nakhal Fort museum National Museum Natural History Museum Omani-French Museum Oman Heritage Museum Planetarium: Sayyid Faisal bin Ali Museum Salalah Museum Sohar fort Museum Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum Sur Maritime Museum

24 568202 24 643400 24 600815

24681874 24681000 24707684 24673111 24643400 95086074

24605033, 24714262 24736688

24641510 24739005 26781384 24701289 24641366 24736613 24600346 24675542 24641650 23294549 26844758 24588700 24541466

Special interest groups American Women’s Group 24594751 Environment Society of Oman 24482121 Historical Association of Oman 24563074 Horticultural Association 24605493 Indian Social Club 99322713 Muscat Amateur Theatre 24562511 Oman Bird Watching Camp 24695498 Omani Women Association 24602800 Royal Omani Amateur Radio Society 24600407 Woman’s Guild of Oman www.womensguildoman.org Taxis Al Dar Taxi Hello taxi Muscat Cab

24700555 24697997 96429096

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Tel: (+968) 24400811, Fax:– (+968) 24400818, Email: sales.marketing@zaharatravel.com, Website: www.zaharatravel.com

A professional worldwide team with several years of experience and rich expertise, several quality awards to our credit and long association with major local corporate, it is a testimony to the quality service and competitive prices we provide to our customers. By virtue of our Global Network Service, you are a part of the Travel service network team, consisting of 2200 locations in 140 countries, all with the common goal of delivering customer service par excellence. You get the advantage of World Wide Customer Care program!!

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