After enjoying the night show at Mutrah Fort, we returned to the hotel. Before leaving the taxi, we agreed with the driver to hire his vehicle for two hours in the morning to explore old Muscat. Our flight was scheduled for the next day around noon, and our hotel transport was arranged for 10 AM, leaving us with enough time for a quick look around the old town. My legs and back were aching, but I didn't want to miss this opportunity.
According to our agreement, the taxi arrived at 7 AM. However, to our surprise, the driver was not the same person we had yesterday. When we asked him about it, he explained that his friend had driven us the day before, but did not speak English well, so he had made arrangements with him. The driver spoke good English and turned out to be a good guide, but it was challenging to remember the names of all the buildings he pointed out while driving.
We started from our hotel, City Seasons, where the taxi picked us up on Sultan Qaboos Road—named after the Sultan himself.
Sultan Qaboos Street is one of the most important arterial roads in Muscat, connecting the city center with various districts.
The driver informed us that it is an Indian school, and it was a pleasure to know about Muscat providing this opportunity for Indian workers' children.
Before his reign, had only one secondary school, one hospital, and fewer than ten kilometers of paved roads.
In 1970, Sultan Qaboos successfully staged a coup against his father with the goal of ending the country's isolation and using its oil revenue for modernization and the development of the country. His Majesty Sultan Qaboos took on the responsibility of leading the nation and transformed it with the establishment of several commercial, administrative, and recreational centers. Many of these played a vital role in the economic and social development of Muscat.
Since we had entered the Muscut felt the presence of his majesty through the many public infrastructures and institutions named after him. In many places Sultan's official portrait is seen on the entrance walls. the public display of his portraits is completely voluntary. From roadside cafes to luxury places like hotels.
Today, Oman’s economy has transformed from one based on the export of dates, fish, and cash crops to one focused on tourism, petroleum, construction, and the service sector. And it is very easy to notice it everywhere the country's developed economy.
We drove down the Sultan Qaboos Expressway to reach Sultan Qaboos Port, passed Mutrah Fort, and Muscat Harbor.
The daytime harbor looks very different than at night. But still, it is showcasing its natural beauty. Taking photos in a running car is a little difficult, but I tried it.
Yesterday night the sultan's yacht was shining with lights which reflected all over the area. and daytime it is a simple way to see it, also another experience.
Mutrah Soaq was also very quiet.
The big fish market, we didn't have time to see it.
Mutrah fort at daytime.
After we passed the harbor, we encountered the black, rocky mountains on both sides of the road.. I typically enjoy mountains, but these looked desolate and barren, seeing them like that didn't feel good. However, this is just a part of nature.
When I researched why the mountains looked this way, I discovered the science behind it. The submarine volcanoes had expelled dark, crustal magma over the Arabian landmass, which, along with the underlying rocks, formed a sequence known as ophiolite rocks.
While what we see may seem stark, Muscat tourism offers some beautiful hikes in the area. On the plane, we had watched a video about travelers' hiking experiences, and it depicted such breathtaking natural scenery.
Passing through the old town is a unique experience. The area resembles a wonderland, with architecture that reflects a captivating blend of various influences, including Arab, Portuguese, Persian, Indian, African, and modern Western styles. This charming place is located at the base of a hilly mountain range.
We turn off the main road, and a special attraction is waiting for us.
Exploring Muscat’s streets is a unique experience, offering a blend of modernity and tradition. Each street tells a different story about Oman’s culture and history, inviting you to discover the beauty and wonders of this city.
Thank you very much for this Journey. See you soon.:)
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