The Sultanate of Oman’s attractions are spellbinding and will offer hours of info-tainment to sightseers. The old and the new stand cheek by jowl in equal splendor and a good example is the mingling of marvels of contemporary architecture and edifices of traditional and modern Islamic architectural styles. Oman’s capital Muscat epitomizes this aspect of Omani culture and Muscat sightseeing is a great way to savour the hallowed, generations old Omani culture while enjoying 21st century benefits and amenities. Hotel options for varied budgets are plenty in Muscat and for those looking for comfortable accommodation such as Al Falaj Hotel located in the heart of Muscat could be a considerably good choice.
The Qasar Al Alam Palace or the Flag Palace is the official residence of the Sultan of Oman and the venue for ceremonial events. The Palace was originally built two hundred years ago, by the seventh direct grandfather of the current Sultan. The present Palace in old Muscat overlooking the Gulf of Oman was built in 1972 and is regarded as Oman’s most flamboyant example of contemporary Islamic architecture. Qasar Al Alam Palace is the centerpiece of a long pedestrian boulevard of well-kept garden beds with government buildings of polished white marble lining either side. The Palace has two long wings with a colourful cube styled central building. The flat roof is supported by funnel like blue and gold columns.
The Palace is flanked on either side by old forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani dating from Portuguese times. The Forts are built not in traditional Islamic style but are constructed in the Portuguese style. Old city walls and watch towers that form an outline around the hills can be seen as you approach the Palace. Visitors can view the Palace only from the outside. Travel along the Al Alam Road to the west of the Palace to get a good view of the side of the Palace with a waterfront and the Forts.
Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveler. Google+
