An Arabian destination that is worth exploring, Salalah, the capital of Dhofar – Oman, is a beautiful city that takes you back to a bygone era, complete with rugged terrain, secluded beaches, and towering sand dunes, all begging to be explored. There are multitudes of cultural and historical Attractions in Salalah, from the various coastal forts scattered around the region and bustling souks to its extraordinary ancient ruins. If you’re seeking unique accommodation, try the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara; situated between the coast and a fresh water lagoon, this villa styled resort offers luxury and relaxation amid tropical gardens, pavillions and cooling water features.
Just a short walk away from the resort is the Baleed Archaeological Park, an UNESCO World Heritage Site which comprises of the ruins of various citadels and what is believed to be a grand mosque. Within the park is the Museum of the Frankincense; inside the museum, the heady aromas arouses the senses as you take in the rich detailed account of this beloved resin which has played such a vital role in Oman’s cultural and trade history.
From June to August, during the season known as khareef, visitors flock to Salalah’s surrounding Jebel region to view the spectacular site of the dry, desert terrain transform into lush oasis as rains from monsoon clouds wash over the landscape. An annual Khareef festival is staged during this period to celebrate the rainy season. In sharp contrast, the neighboring barren landscape of the Empty Quarter Desert conjures up visions of romance and adventure. The largest sand desert in the world, the towering sand dunes for which the desert is famed for can rise up to 250m and form vast mountainous ranges of dune formations, stretching over thousands of km. Travel along the dunes and delve into the lives of the local Bedouins to learn how they navigate this harsh environment, just as their ancestors did in centuries past.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
