Though distinctly placed as part of the GCC, the Omani world is full of culture and character which is unique to the land and its inhabitants. Even a few days spent in the Sultanate is sure to leave you impressed with the place and its people By Reema Lokesh
The Sultanate of Oman has its very own charm, which is rather distinct both in style and expression when compared to its neighbouring GCC counterparts. The first thing that makes a rather impressive impact is the fact that the fairer sex is highly respected and given her rightful place. From the Khawa (special Omani welcome drink) to the dates, (the story goes that there are more date palm trees in the region than its people) the Omani hospitality is distinct. Undiscovered till about recently, the tourism board of Oman in Mumbai is aggressively and strategically promoting the region in India and the recently concluded mega FAM trip is proof of its commitment toward tourism promotion. The ‘Discover Oman’ FAM for Indian travel agents highlighted some unique tourism elements of country from the mountains, deserts, ocean fronts, to the cultural sites and heritage monuments. The Indian outbound business has always been a promising source market for international tourism boards across continents.
Tapping India outbound
The travel agents were given an opportunity for site inspections at various properties including Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, Hormuz Grand Hotel, Al Falaj Hotel, Al Bustan Palace – A Ritz Carlton Hotel, Alila Jabal Akhdar, Al Nahda Resort, Ramee Guestline, Wadi Shab Resort, Sur Plaza Hotel, Sahab Hotel, The Jungle Restaurant, On the Rocks lounge and they also went dolphin watching with Sidab Tours. The agents attended B2B sessions and got an opportunity to network with a wide selection of travel and tourism representatives in Oman – hotels, attractions and DMCs.
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Speaking at the B2B session, HE Maitha Al Mahrouqi, under secretary, MoT, Oman who met the travel agents said, that she was very keen to receive Indian tourists and provide the Indian trade the support they needed. “We have a very special product in this region and are confident that we will meet the expectations of the Indian discerning traveller. Tourism from India has witnessed a steady rise and we can only improve the numbers with time,” she said. The country has witnessed a 10 per cent growth in tourism arrivals from 2012 to 2013.
Launched in 2011, the Discover Oman specialist training programme has offered agents online and offline trainings in the past and continues to be active through product trainings and webinars. The success and feedback received over the years encouraged the MoT to extend the training programme to Oman.
The country is also working towards improving the airport infrastructure in the near future. The tourism board is clear in its strategy to have a long term approach toward the India market. This vision is supported by the national carrier Oman Air with robust flight connections between the two countries. The country has received an encouraging response from the Indian market especially in the film and wedding tourism segments.
Hospitality experiences
Ten Things you must do in Oman
- Try the welcome drink Khawah and of course the dates and also coffee with a combination of rosé and cardamoms.
- Visit the splendid Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque an architectural marvel. The unique handwoven Persian carpet covers over 4,000 sq mtr internal space and its unique chandelier is worth a look.
- Walk around the Souks for some unique trinkets and silver.
- The Muscat Royal Opera is an experience in itself.
- The special sound therapy treatment at the Alila Jabal Akhdar is worth experiencing. It reveals a lot about your chakras in the body.
- Surely stay back in the desert for a night or two to experience the sounds of silence.
- A journey on the sand dunes is a must. You can leave your footprints on the sands of time.
- For some realtime therapy, check out the Al Nahda resort and spa. Meet Dr Mary Ann there, she can guide on some vital lifestyle tips.
- Check out the historical and heritage areas of Birkat Al Mouze region. The unique mud structures will take you into a different era.
- Just enjoy the Omani hospitality which is unadulterated. The people are happy and in love with their ruler.
Adventure and more
If the mountains are your calling, then this country has this natural splendour in abundance. The mountain ranges are unique in topography. Take a journey up to Jabal Shams, the region’s highest mountain point; the panorama is special. The country also has another natural site – the sinkhole located in Hawiyat Najm Park on route from Quriyat to Sur, is an interesting stop over. The region of Sur, is also known for being the old world shipping building hub especially the wooden ones. Oman surely takes you to a different world which is old world but pleasantly modern in its style and substance.
