Nestled between sheer mountains and the deep blue Gulf of Oman, Muscat is an Arabian Dream come true.
Old world architecture, dark, sprawling souks and the scent of frankincense will make you feel like you've stepped into Aladdin, except with all the lovely modern infrastructure and amenities we're pretty much accustomed to.
If you're not a fan of Dubai's modernity or Abu Dhabi's grandeur, Muscat might just be the Middle Eastern city for you!
Oman announced in 2016 that it is planning to double tourist numbers by 2040 so it is great to visit whilst it feels like you're the only tourist there.
The country's strategy for growing tourism includes turning different parts of Oman into destinations in their own right, appointing Muscat as the main stop for all things cultural.
WHEN TO GO
The best time to visit Muscat is November-March. Between April and September it can be exceedingly hot, easily hitting 40C.
In January & February there is the month long Muscat Festival celebrating Omani culture, heritage, arts and daily fireworks.
During Ramadan the city quietens down, which can make for a peaceful trip. However remember that eating and drinking is illegal in public during Ramadan, and many restaurants outside of hotels will likely be closed during the day.
WHAT'S MUSCAT LIKE FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS?
As a solo female traveller, I found Muscat to be super safe. I never felt intimidated or felt like I was being stared at, even as the only woman and only tourist in the local fish market!
It can be hard to meet other travellers as there is no hostel scene in Muscat, but if you're happy indulging in some solitude at a luxury hotel then it's a great choice.
The best way to get around is by taxi. Hire a car if you want to visit nearby areas.
Make sure you're up to date with all of Oman's laws: The drinking age is 21, drugs of any kind can result in imprisonment or even the death penalty, homosexuality is illegal and it is against the law to share a hotel room with someone of the opposite sex unless you are married or closely related.
MUST SEE
1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Completed in 2001, the Grand Mosque was a gift from Sultan Qaboos to his people to celebrate his 30th year of reign.
It houses one of the largest hand woven carpets in the world, a huge 14m crystal chandelier, and can accommodate around 20,000 worshippers in one go.
Entrance is free but you'll need to show ID and dress codes must be strictly adhered to (see 'What to wear').
2. Mutrah
Situated on the Eastern side of Muscat, Mutrah's low level buildings and mosques run along the beautiful Corniche waterfront.
Mutrah Souk is one of Muscat's most popular spots for tourists, selling everything from frankincense to lanterns to textiles.
Be prepared to bargain and don't get too lost in the winding alleyways!
Mutrah is also home to Muscat's fish market which was redeveloped in 2017.
3. Old Muscat
Nestled between rocky hills and the sea, Old Muscat emerges like a small oasis.
Whilst probably not worth a full day, it is definitely worth a visit.
It is home to the Royal Palace, the 16th century Al Jalali Fort and the newly opened National Museum.
Showcasing extensive Omani history and culture in a modern setting, the Museum entry costs 5 Omani Rial for tourists.
4. Hajar Mountains
A visit to the nearby Hajar Mountains is one of Muscat's most popular day trips, and can just about be done in a day if you have limited time.
However you will need a much less limitation on money to do this, as 4x4 tours into the mountains can be borderline extortionate!
Mountains, wadis and the beautiful city of Nizwa can all be reached by hiring your own 4x4 if you're feeling adventurous.
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MUST EAT
Here are some of the must try foods in Muscat:
1. Dates
There are hundreds of types of dates in Oman.
They are an essential part of Omani culture and served everywhere!
You'll find them baked into cakes and bread, made into savoury sauces for , or served with your coffee.
2. Shuwa
Sometimes referred to as Oman's national dish, shuwa is a celebration dish often eaten during Eid.
Red meat covered in spices is wrapped in banana leaves and left to cook for 2-3 days in a special underground oven.
Some of the tastiest meat you will find!
3. Fresh Seafood
Head into Mutrah fish market and you will see just how much fresh seafood Muscat brings in every day!
Although perhaps not surprising given Muscat's location, there is a huge variety from tuna to giant prawns to kingfish to squid to crabs.
Try it all freshly grilled with hummus and flatbreads at restaurants near the Mutrah fish market, or try Oman's traditional fish dish Mashuai (spiced, grilled kingfish served with lemon rice).
BEST SPOT FOR A SUNDOWNER
Head to the The Edge at Muscat's Crowne Plaza hotel.
It's closed in the heat of summer, but offers unparalleled views of the sunset and delicious (but naturally, expensive) cocktails.
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WHAT TO WEAR
Dress code in Muscat is conservative. Both men and women should cover shoulders (t-shirts are ok) and knees when in public, i.e. outside of the hotel.
To enter the mosque, both men and women need to wear long sleeves to the wrists, covering the stomach entirely and trousers down to the ankles. All tattoos need to be covered.
Women also need to wear a hijab covering their hair to enter mosques (my taxi driver was kind enough to wrap my scarf around my head for me to make sure it was correct!).
Swimwear including bikinis is acceptable in hotels, but not on public beaches or wadis - go for board shorts and rash vests to keep covered.
LANGUAGE
Whilst Arabic is the official language of Oman, English is widely spoken and road signs are written in both languages.
You can easily get by only speaking English, but knowing a couple of Arabic words is always a nice gesture!
CURRENCY: Omani Rial. 1 Rial is divided into 1,000 Baisa
TIME ZONE: GMT+4 hours
DIAL CODE: +968
PLUG TYPE: Category G (e.g. UK plug sockets)
WHAT'S THE DAMAGE?
According to recent research, Muscat is one of the most expensive cities in the world for tourists!
Muscat came joint second with Dubai, just behind Singapore in first place.
While it scores a hefty 3/3 for expensiveness it is definitely worth it, particularly on a layover through the Middle East.
Do you have any other tips for travelling to Muscat?
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