• United States
    • Arizona
      • Glendale – 623-251-0442
    • Connecticut
      • Tanger Outlet Center – 860-383-4340
    • Florida
      • Key West – 305-396-7307
      • Orlando – 407-851-7234
      • Tampa – 813-513-9868
      • Westfield Brandon – 813-689-4143
    • Hawaii
      • Hilton Hawaiian Village – 808-945-2221
      • Maui Store – 808-661-1112
    • Lancaster
      • Park City Center – 717-390-8783
    • Las Vegas
      • Caesar’s Palace Hotel – 702-836-9654
    • Los Angeles
      • Valencia Town Center – 661-287-9415
    • New York
      • East Hampton – 877-544-1777
      • Madison Avenue – 646-478-7263
      • Manhattan – 212-371-7242
      • Bleecker St
    • Northern California
      • Arden Fair Mall – 916-920-3388
      • Hillsdale Center – 650-571-5582
      • Market St. Store – 415-618-0303
      • Powell St. – (415) 951-1929
      • Westfield Galleria – 916-781-0167
      • Foothills Blvd
    • Orange County
      • Irvine Spectrum Center – 949-585-9294
      • Cerritos Mall – 877-554-1777
      • Galleria at Tyler – 951-359-6764
    • Palm Desert
      • El Paseo – 760-674-0000
    • San Diego
      • Escondido – 760-489-0631
    • Santa Barbara
      • Pacific View Mall – 805-654-0043
      • Paseo Nuevo – 805-899-4455
    • Seattle
      • Bellevue Collection – 425-454-2909
    • Texas
      • Baybrook Mall – 281-486-1114
      • Galleria Dallas – 972-239-2036
      • Houston Galleria – 713-623-0691
      • Stonebriar Mall – 972-668-4900
    • Virgin Islands – 1-877-554-1777
    • Virginia Beach
      • Lynnhaven Mall – 757-340-0688
  • Abu Dhabi
    • Yas Mall – 1-877-554-1777
  • The Netherlands
    • Amsterdam – +31-20-7370564
  • Australia
    • Sydney – 02-8542-6100
    • Chatswood – 02-9415-4454
  • Brazil
    • Salvador
  • Canada
    • Bramalea City Centre – 647-874-9994
    • Georgian Mall – 705-725-9248
    • Holt Renfrew Center – 1-800-848-2350
    • Scarborough Town Centre – 416-290-0454
  • Germany
    • Dusseldorf – 49-211-869-39030
  • Italy
    • Bologna
  • Hong Kong
    • Causeway Bay – 852 28712229
    • Matheson St
    • Central – 852 23240389
    • Yun Ping Road – 852 28712229
  • Malta
    • Bisazza St. – 356-27444312
  • Mexico
    • Andares
    • Angelópolis Centro Comercial
    • Centro Santa Fe – 55 9688 7363
    • Cozumel
    • Guadalajara – 01 (33) 31 10 03 02
    • Jalisco
    • Liverpool – 55 5480 1300
    • Parque Delta – 9154 9671
    • Pasanje Polanco – 52 80 04 63
    • Paseo Acoxpa – 56 79 72 29
    • Paseo Interlomas – 52 91 67 67
    • Paseo Queretaro
    • Perisur – 3488 8045
    • Playa Del Carmen – 01 (99) 84 68 85 57
    • Plaza Altabrisa Tabasco
    • Puebla – 01 (22) 22 25 75 55
    • Puerto Vallarta – 4893 6898
    • San Miguel de Cozumel
    • Oasis Coyoacán – 91 54 89 53
    • Villahermosa – 01 (99) 32 53 53 70
  • Oman
    • Bareeq Al Shatti Mall – 1-877-554-1777
  • Philippines
    • Robinsons Place – (02) 354 78 27
    • Century City Mall – (02) 556 69 68
    • Newport – (02) 835 54 67
    • Shangri-La Plaza – (02) 718 55 08
  • Puerto Rico
    • The Plaza Las Americas – 1-877-554-1777
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Singapore
    • Orchard Gateway – 65 6702 6391
    • Wisma Atria – 65 6735 1829
    • Westgate – 65 6465 9771
    • Marina Bay Sands – 65 6688 7475
    • Marina Bay Sands
  • Spain
    • Barcelona – 34-932.725.269
    • Bulevard Rosa – 34-932.158.331
    • La Roca Village – 34-932.445.591
    • Madrid – 34 911 25 07 97
    • Marbella – 34-952.862.716
  • Taiwan
    • Taipei – 1-877-554-1777
  • Vietnam
    • Ha Noi
  • Blog

OROGOLD Locations

  • United States
    • Arizona
      • Glendale – 623-251-0442
    • Connecticut
      • Tanger Outlet Center – 860-383-4340
    • Florida
      • Key West – 305-396-7307
      • Orlando – 407-851-7234
      • Tampa – 813-513-9868
      • Westfield Brandon – 813-689-4143
    • Hawaii
      • Hilton Hawaiian Village – 808-945-2221
      • Maui Store – 808-661-1112
    • Lancaster
      • Park City Center – 717-390-8783
    • Las Vegas
      • Caesar’s Palace Hotel – 702-836-9654
    • Los Angeles
      • Valencia Town Center – 661-287-9415
    • New York
      • East Hampton – 877-544-1777
      • Madison Avenue – 646-478-7263
      • Manhattan – 212-371-7242
      • Bleecker St
    • Northern California
      • Arden Fair Mall – 916-920-3388
      • Hillsdale Center – 650-571-5582
      • Market St. Store – 415-618-0303
      • Powell St. – (415) 951-1929
      • Westfield Galleria – 916-781-0167
      • Foothills Blvd
    • Orange County
      • Irvine Spectrum Center – 949-585-9294
      • Cerritos Mall – 877-554-1777
      • Galleria at Tyler – 951-359-6764
    • Palm Desert
      • El Paseo – 760-674-0000
    • San Diego
      • Escondido – 760-489-0631
    • Santa Barbara
      • Pacific View Mall – 805-654-0043
      • Paseo Nuevo – 805-899-4455
    • Seattle
      • Bellevue Collection – 425-454-2909
    • Texas
      • Baybrook Mall – 281-486-1114
      • Galleria Dallas – 972-239-2036
      • Houston Galleria – 713-623-0691
      • Stonebriar Mall – 972-668-4900
    • Virgin Islands – 1-877-554-1777
    • Virginia Beach
      • Lynnhaven Mall – 757-340-0688
  • Abu Dhabi
    • Yas Mall – 1-877-554-1777
  • The Netherlands
    • Amsterdam – +31-20-7370564
  • Australia
    • Sydney – 02-8542-6100
    • Chatswood – 02-9415-4454
  • Brazil
    • Salvador
  • Canada
    • Bramalea City Centre – 647-874-9994
    • Georgian Mall – 705-725-9248
    • Holt Renfrew Center – 1-800-848-2350
    • Scarborough Town Centre – 416-290-0454
  • Germany
    • Dusseldorf – 49-211-869-39030
  • Italy
    • Bologna
  • Hong Kong
    • Causeway Bay – 852 28712229
    • Matheson St
    • Central – 852 23240389
    • Yun Ping Road – 852 28712229
  • Malta
    • Bisazza St. – 356-27444312
  • Mexico
    • Andares
    • Angelópolis Centro Comercial
    • Centro Santa Fe – 55 9688 7363
    • Cozumel
    • Guadalajara – 01 (33) 31 10 03 02
    • Jalisco
    • Liverpool – 55 5480 1300
    • Parque Delta – 9154 9671
    • Pasanje Polanco – 52 80 04 63
    • Paseo Acoxpa – 56 79 72 29
    • Paseo Interlomas – 52 91 67 67
    • Paseo Queretaro
    • Perisur – 3488 8045
    • Playa Del Carmen – 01 (99) 84 68 85 57
    • Plaza Altabrisa Tabasco
    • Puebla – 01 (22) 22 25 75 55
    • Puerto Vallarta – 4893 6898
    • San Miguel de Cozumel
    • Oasis Coyoacán – 91 54 89 53
    • Villahermosa – 01 (99) 32 53 53 70
  • Oman
    • Bareeq Al Shatti Mall – 1-877-554-1777
  • Philippines
    • Robinsons Place – (02) 354 78 27
    • Century City Mall – (02) 556 69 68
    • Newport – (02) 835 54 67
    • Shangri-La Plaza – (02) 718 55 08
  • Puerto Rico
    • The Plaza Las Americas – 1-877-554-1777
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Singapore
    • Orchard Gateway – 65 6702 6391
    • Wisma Atria – 65 6735 1829
    • Westgate – 65 6465 9771
    • Marina Bay Sands – 65 6688 7475
    • Marina Bay Sands
  • Spain
    • Barcelona – 34-932.725.269
    • Bulevard Rosa – 34-932.158.331
    • La Roca Village – 34-932.445.591
    • Madrid – 34 911 25 07 97
    • Marbella – 34-952.862.716
  • Taiwan
    • Taipei – 1-877-554-1777
  • Vietnam
    • Ha Noi
  • Blog
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Tag Archives: Oman

Travel |

August 13, 2020

| OROGOLD

7 Vacation Destinations That Make Social Distancing Easy

Musandam view

Desperate to get away from all of the stress that Covid-19 has brought to your life?

While travel restrictions around the world are starting to ease, it’s still important to practice social distancing, meaning that heading to a large and busy city wouldn’t be the wisest choice. Instead, check out these X destinations – they’re quiet and secluded, making them perfect for a socially distanced vacation.

Spicewood, Texas, USA

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🌿💦

A post shared by Matthew W. Guthrie (@guthrie_mw) on Mar 9, 2020 at 8:16am PDT

Rich in natural beauty, the rural town of Spicewood sits on the banks of Lake Travis. Many people know Spicewood for being home to music superstar Willie Nelson, but the town has so much else to offer too.

Things to Do

Although Spicewood isn’t big, there are a few major attractions here, including:

  • Krause Springs – a swimming hole with natural caves, sunbathing rocks and waterfalls, as well as a rope swing for the truly adventurous
  • Ziplining – in addition to ziplining through the canopies during the day, you could also try a night ride, when the trees are lit up with fairy lights and lanterns
  • Pace Bend Park – the best place to go to explore the shoreline of Lake Travis
  • Spicewood Vineyards – a traditional winery that offers tours and tastings
  • Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area – the perfect place for some exhilarating mountain biking, along with incredible views

Where to Stay

There are a few accommodation options sprinkled through Spicewood, but for an experience you will never forget, book yourself in to Cypress Valley. This resort has five treehouses sitting at the top of majestic cypress trees, each one decked out to offer the ultimate in modern comforts.

Sip your morning coffee from your treetop deck, overlooking the ravine, and then end your day in the soak tub or the hammock – total relaxation!

The Maldives

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Maldives beautiful beach . . . @bestvacations @scenicfever @amazinghote.s @travelawesome @tourfervor @tropicals @exoticleisure @tripfervor @exoticleisure @earthpix @amazingtravelguides @travelsfever @beaches_n_resorts @travelandleisure #maldives #maldivesislands  #switzerland #nature #naturephotography #trip #travels #travelworld #travelgram #travelphotography #travelgram #traveltheworld #travelworld #travelpics #travellife #instatravelling #travel #travelgoals #travelbloggerlife #travellover #worldtraveler #naturelover #travelawesome #traveladdict #travelblogger #tourlife #tour #tourist #turismo #traveler #nightlife #photography

A post shared by Travel | Vacation | Nature (@travel.placed) on Aug 12, 2020 at 10:11pm PDT

If you’re looking for an exclusive, tropical beach vacation, you won’t be disappointed with the Maldives. This is possibly one of the most famous vacation destinations out there, and now is the perfect time to tick the Maldives off from your bucket list.

Things to Do

With over 1000 islands to explore in the Maldives, many visitors usually spend their time island-hopping, trying to fit as much as possible into their itinerary. However, in the time of social distancing, this wouldn’t be wise – you want to try to keep your movements to a minimum.

Fortunately, the Maldives makes this easy. Secluded outdoor activities are the norm here, whether you spend your days diving and snorkeling or simply relaxing on a quiet stretch of beach.

Where to Stay

Over-water villas are also extremely popular in the Maldives, and these tend to be much safer than a hotel, minimizing your contact with other people.

Soneva is a resort that offers luxury water villas, each one complete with everything from personal gyms and plunge pools to water slides and wine cellars, meaning that you won’t need to venture too far from your villa during your stay.

Musandam, Oman

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Living in the UAE, I’m curious to know how many of you have crossed the border into Musandam ? Musandam is a peninsula that is on the Strait of Hormuz and its only land border is with the UAE. . . . . . #roadtrip #roadtrippin #roadtrips #roadtripping #nature #naturephotography #naturelovers #nature🍃 #simplelife #postcardsfromtheworld #inlet #travel #travelblogger #travelphotography #iphone6splus #travels #travelers #travelgram #travelgrams #igers #igersdubai #travelingram #travelbug #travelpic #travelpics #beach #musandam #musandamoman #peninsula #itsinstatuetdy

A post shared by Vivek 🇦🇪🇮🇳🇺🇸 (@dubai_vices) on Aug 11, 2020 at 6:26am PDT

Oman was seeing a rapid increase in tourism numbers before the Coronavirus outbreak, with more and more people from all over the world discovering what this amazing country has to offer. While many parts of Oman can get pretty crowded, Musandam tends to be one of the least-visited areas, partly due to the fact that it is an island that’s largely cut off from the mainland.

Things to Do

Its isolated location makes Musandam perfect for a socially distanced vacation. Explore the coastline on a traditional dhow cruise, and then spend some time adventuring underwater by snorkelling.

Renting a car here is a good idea – this gives you the opportunity to take short road trips around the island, driving through its small villages and historic forts.

Of course, to actually get to Musandam, you will likely need to first fly into Muscat. Although the capital city is quite a busy one, most businesses have put safety measures in place, meaning that a brief stint here is still doable. One must-visit spot in Oman is the Bareeq Al Shatti Mall, where you will find an OROGOLD boutique store – stop here to treat your skin to a luxurious VIP facial and free product demonstrations.

Where to Stay

If you’re looking for exquisite luxury, the Six Senses Zighy Bay is one of the best resorts in Musandam. It sits on a private bay and sandy beach, giving you the chance to soak up the sun without having to worry about other people nearby.

The resort is also known for its world-class spa. Unlike many others around the world, the spa here only uses natural products, combining these with a mixture of both Eastern and Western techniques.

The Algarve, Portugal

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Have you been to the beaches in the western part of the Algarve? ✨ They are magnificent and very different from the other special beaches in our region. #AlgarveLooksGoodonYou⁠ ⁠ 📸 @jorgemestresimao_photography⁠ ⁠ #featuremealgarve #algarvetourism #visitalgarve #algarve #visitportugal #portugal #travel #traveling #instatravel #travelgram #wanderlust #summer #vacation #holiday #salema #ocean #love #sun #beachlife #sea #instagood #beach #beachwalk

A post shared by Algarve Tourism (@algarvetourism) on Aug 11, 2020 at 6:35am PDT

The Algarve is the southernmost region in Portugal, and it has certainly become much more famous in recent years. While most people stop off in Algarve after taking in all that the larger cities have to offer, there is definitely enough to do here to dedicate your entire vacation to the area.

Things to Do

The Algarve is known for its contrast and diversity, meaning that you will find plenty to do here, even while socially distancing. Spend time on the beaches, visit historic ruins, and stroll along the towering cliffs.

This is a region that is fantastic no matter the time of year – it’s known for having one of Europe’s best climates, and is enjoyable in all seasons.

Where to Stay

You will find several secluded resorts throughout the Algarve, each one perfect for keeping yourself well-isolated. However, if you really want to treat yourself, head to the EPIC SANA Algarve.

This wellness resort is set within a stunning pine forest, and overlooks the Praia Falesia beach. With several restaurants, landscaped gardens, five outdoor pools and a fully-equipped wellness center, complete with an extensive menu of holistic spa treatments, you’ll find pretty much everything you could need right here.

As an added bonus, this is a hotel that is really committed to keeping its guests safe throughout this pandemic – they’ve altered their restaurant layouts, are operating at a limited capacity, and are taking pre-bookings for all facilities.

Hayman Island, Australia

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I mean…. someone’s gotta do it 😉 – – – #haymanisland #whitsundays #whitsundayislands #intercontinentalhotel #lovewhitsundays #australia

A post shared by J A D E C L A R K E (@jadeclarke3) on Dec 20, 2019 at 8:00pm PST

You will find the Whitsunday Islands just off the coast of Central Queensland, and Hayman Island is the most northerly of them all. Located on the Great Barrier Reef, this private island is only about 294 hectares in size, but it truly is a tropical paradise.

Things to Do

Hayman Island is home to such a rich array of biodiversity, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers. Since this island is pretty exclusive, it doesn’t get too crowded, meaning that you will easily be able to socially distance here.

Water sports are popular, especially those that take you up-close to the Great Barrier Reef, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also one of the great wonders of the world. A trip to the famous Whitehaven Beach is also a must – you can only access it by boat, helicopter or seaplane.

Where to Stay

The InterContinental Hayman Island Resort is known for being one of the best on the island. In addition to a handful of different swimming pools, this resort also has one that’s seven times the size of an Olympic pool. You’ll also find several sports facilities, a beauty salon, restaurants, a retail mall, and more here.

The resort offers several activities for guests to take part in too, limiting your outside exposure. Whether you want to go catamaran sailing or try your hand at some fishing, the resort will help you with all of this.

Fogo Island, Canada

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REPOST from @shorefastfogoisland:⠀ Happy World Oceans' Day. Fogo Islanders have always lived in concert with the sea – a delicate and tenuous relationship that oscillates between harmony and dissonance, but is ultimately defined by reverence. Indeed, as human beings collectively sharing this same small planet together, we should all consider our lives as being inextricably bound up with our planet's oceans.⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Shorefast's New Ocean Ethic Program encourages us to consider a higher fidelity relationship with the waters that sustain our communities. Click the link in our bio to review the initiatives of this program. (Yes, the link in in our @fogoislandinn bio, too!)⠀ ⠀⠀ 📸 by @iwanbaan⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ #worldoceansday #worldoceansday2020 #shorefast #fogoisland #explorecanada #fogoislandinn #exploreNL @explorecanada

A post shared by Fogo Island Inn (@fogoislandinn) on Jun 8, 2020 at 9:07am PDT

If you want to go somewhere where you really won’t see much of other people, then Fogo Island in Canada is the destination to choose. This is Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest offshore island, with the only way to access it being by ferry.

Things to Do

The beauty of Fogo Island is that there isn’t much to do here. Its dreamy location makes it perfect for exploring the great outdoors, with everything from the sea-cliff paths to the dense forests to the meandering coastline worth checking out.

The island’s art scene has also recently had quite the resurgence. The Fogo Island Gallery is a must for art-lovers, where you will find regularly-changing exhibitions from both local and residential artists. There are several other art galleries dotted around the island too, each one creating and selling beautiful pieces.

Foodies out there may be apprehensive after hearing that there are only about ten restaurants, cafes and pubs on the island, but don’t let this put you off. What the island lacks in quantity, it makes up for in quality – expect fresh seafood from the harbor, foraged plants and berries, and locally-farmed meat.

Where to Stay

If you have ever heard of Fogo Island, then you probably also know about the Fogo Island Inn – the place that brought the island to the attention of the masses. This award-winning hotel actually sits on its own little island, and each guest room has floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the dramatic views.

In addition to the scenery all around it, the hotel boasts a few extra features that make it extra-special:

  • Wood-fired saunas
  • Outdoor hot tubs
  • A library
  • An art gallery (the above-mentioned Fogo Island Gallery)
  • A cinema

Gobi-Altai Mountains, Mongolia

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بیابان گُبی (Gobi desert) ————————- پنجمین بیابان بزرگ در جهان با وسعتی حدود 1.300.000 کیلومتر مربع که بخش‌هایی از جنوب مغولستان و شمال غربی چین را در بر می‌گیرد و شامل بیابان‌های استپ و فلات‌های نیمه بیابانی می‌شود و در مسیر جاده ابریشم قرار دارد. این بیابان از اطراف توسط کوه‌های آلتای، بیابان تکله‌مکان و فلات تبت احاطه شده‌است. ویژگی خاص این بیابان سرمای شدید آن است نه گرما.دمای هوا تا منفی ۴۰ درجه نیز میرسد که حتی تپه های شنی نیز پر از برفک می شوند.موج های سرمای بیابان گبی می توانند باعث مرگ انسان شوند. این منطقه محل سکونت گونه‌های متعددی از حیوانات مانند شترهای دوکوهانه، آهوی دم سیاه، شتر باختری، گرگ‌،موش خرمای وحشی اروپایی،الاغ‌های وحشی مغولی،خرس قهوه‌ای،پلنگ برفی و آبچلیک است.عده ای نیز معتقدند که اولین تخم دایناسورها در این مکان یافت شده‌است. این بیابان خانهٔ سنگواره‌های بسیاری از دایناسورهای قدیمی است که تاکنون کشف شده‌است. همانند سایر کشفیات مهم فسیلی،گبی بخش اعظمی از امپراتوری مغول،یکی از بزرگ‌ترین امپراتوری‌های جهان در طول قرن ۱۳ و ۱۴ را تشکیل داد بود. گبی همچنین شهرهای مهمی برای توقف و استراحت بازرگانانی که از اروپا به چین سفر می‌کنند در خود داشته‌است. مارکو پولو،جهانگرد مشهور ایتالیایی، با شهرهای افسانه‌ای گبی در سفر خود در آسیا در راه بازگشت به ونیز برخورد کرده و آن را در کتاب سفرهای مارکو پلو ذکر کرده‌است. ————————– #desert🌵 #kavir #tabiat #LetsGoBiaBon #adventuretravel #gobidesert #iranoffroad #BiaBoni_show #کویر #طبیعتگردی #طبیعت #ادونچر #بیابونی_شو #آفرود #آفرودسواران #ماجراجویی #تجهیزات_کمپینگ #بیابان #اکوتوریسم #بيابوني_شو #بومگردی

A post shared by ʙɪᴀʙᴏɴ|بيابون (@biabon.ir) on Aug 8, 2020 at 8:07am PDT

The vast expanse of the Gobi Desert makes it easy to keep yourself away from others – perfect for a post-Coronavirus getaway. The Gobi-Altai Mountains are in the Gurvansaikhan National Park, where you will be able to try a variety of traditional activities.

Things to Do

Camel rides over the sand dunes aren’t just a fun activity here – they are a mode of transport. This is the most efficient way to get around the desert, whether you then plan on hiking up a mountain or looking for dinosaur fossils.

A few spots in the area worth a visit include:

  • Yol Valley – the lushness of this region will surprise you, with steep valley having been carved out by an ancient river
  • Tugrigiin Shiree – home to a famous dinosaur fossil showing two dinosaurs fiercely in combat
  • Bulgan Sum – a small nomadic village that is famous for its organically grown produce
  • Flaming Cliffs – these magnificent cliffs emit a mystical orange glow at sunrise and sunset

Where to Stay

Gers, otherwise known as yurts, are the most common form of accommodation in Mongolia, and the Three Camel Lodge has done theirs up in the most luxurious of manners.

Each ger opens straight out onto the desert and features hand-painted furniture and hand-made decor, while also being very sustainable.

In addition to cooking up delicious meals with ingredients from their on-site greenhouse, this hotel also offers a number of exciting activities to guests, such as:

  • Camel and horseback rides
  • Mongolian cooking classes
  • Mongolian films in their private cinema ger
  • Traditional massages and spa treatments in the dedicated massage ger
  • A shop filled with authentic local goods

If you have started to get the travel bug after spending so much time indoors, you’re not alone. While it may not yet be safe to travel to and from many destinations, there’s no harm in planning a trip for the future. Social distancing is likely to be around for quite a while, even if and when Covid-19 gets under control, making it worth taking this into account when planning your next adventure.

Australia, Canada, Maldives, Mongolia, Oman, Portugal, Texas | Comment
Travel |

July 18, 2020

| OROGOLD

Road Tripping Through Oman

Mountain roads in Oman

Being one of the safest countries in the Middle East, and so easy to self-drive, Oman is the perfect location for those seeking a road trip. From majestic fjords to bustling souks, many of this country’s most-prized attractions are best explored by road.

When to Visit

There are a few things to keep in mind when deciding when to visit Oman…

To begin with, Oman is a Muslim country. If you visit during the dates of Ramadan, many restaurants will be closed during the day.

In terms of weather, you can basically choose between summer or winter. Don’t be fooled into thinking that winters (October to April) are cold here; this is when temperatures are at a balmy 20°C, making winter the peak tourist season. February and March tend to be busiest, but since you’ll be road tripping off the tourist trail, this shouldn’t be much of a problem for you.

In the summer months (May to September), temperatures often rise uncomfortably above 40°C. Although this means fantastic bargains from hotels and restaurants, properly exploring the country is near-impossible in these temperatures.

One other thing to keep in mind…

While many western countries have Sunday as their “day of rest”, meaning that many shops and facilities are closed, Oman has this on Fridays, which could influence how much you’re able to do on that day.

The Car

Car driving on sand dunes in Oman

It goes without saying that you’ll need a car to self-drive around Oman, but these are easy for tourists to rent.

Does it Need to Be a 4WD?

Ideally, yes. While you will be able to manage without one, this will mean that you miss out on some of the more mountainous routes, as well as the sandier roads.

A car with a GPS would also be useful, but keep in mind that many roads may not be on the map. When driving around Muscat in particular, you will also need to make sure that you aren’t distracted by your GPS – the traffic can be quite hectic, so you will need all eyes on the road at all times!

Off-Road Driving

For many, the thrill of an Omani road trip comes from the thought of a few exhilarating off-road drives. However, things can get a little tricky if you want to do this in a rental car…

Many of the insurance providers don’t cover off-road driving in their policies. This means that you either take a risk when going off road, or you spend some extra time looking for an insurance provider that can offer exactly what you need.

Driving Rules

If you plan on doing a lot of driving in a foreign country, it always pays to educate yourself before your visit on any new driving rules. Here are a few for Oman:

  • You’ll need to drive on the right-hand side of the road
  • Speed limits are enforced
  • There is zero-tolerance for drink driving
  • Prepare for unexpected animal crossings, such as goats or camels

Planning Your Route

Your route will likely be based on how much time you have. Don’t be tempted to cram too much into each day – the beauty of Oman is in its spontaneity, and you don’t want to end up feeling rushed and stressed.

Each region in Oman offers something a little different, so you could base your itinerary off their unique features. For example, the best beaches will be found along the East Coastal Area, while Nizwa is a must for those seeking heritage sites.

Here are some areas you won’t want to miss…

Muscat

View of Muscat

The capital of Oman, which many would say is the Gulf’s most beautiful capital, is usually where a road trip would begin. This is where most visitors enter the country, making it easy to find a suitable car for hire here.

Things to Do in Muscat:

  • Visit the historic Al Alam Palace
  • Explore the National Museum to learn about the country’s past
  • Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, not only famous for its exemplary architecture, but also home to the second largest Persian carpet in the world, and one of the largest chandeliers in the world
  • Watch a show at the exquisite Royal Opera House
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at the grand Bareeq Al Shatti Mall, where you’ll also be able to treat your skin to a VIP facial at the OROGOLD boutique here
  • Go off road to check out some of the capital’s unspoilt beaches, such as Khalouf Beach and Ras Al Hamra Beach

How long should you spend in Muscat?

This all depends on your interests – if you’re a fan of cultural attractions and museums, you’ll need at least three days. If you are more keen to get out there and see what else the country has to offer, two days should be plenty.

The East Coast

In terms of natural beauty and landscape, the East Coast is incredibly diverse. It’s also easy to reach from the south of Muscat, taking just a couple of hours by car on the iconic Muscat-Sur Coastal Road.

On your way, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramas of the Arabian landscape on one side, with the Eastern Hajar Mountains on the other side providing a jaw-dropping backdrop. The small fishing village of Quriyat is also worth stopping at, as is the unique Bimmah Sinkhole.

Things to Do on the East Coast:

  • Visit the Wadi Shab, a dry riverbed that contains water after heavy rainfalls – it’s a great place to swim
  • Take a stroll along Fins Beach
  • Enjoy a walk along the Corniche of Sur, which takes you by the waterfront
  • Check out the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, with the high season here being July to October
  • Explore Wadi Bani Khalid, a desert oasis with a beautiful swimming hole

Try to time your visit to the East Coast for midweek – this is a popular weekend spot for locals and it can get pretty busy!

How long should you spend on the East Coast?

This is quite a vast area, packed with natural beauty. Three days here is a minimum, although you could easily stretch this to five or six.

Nizwa

Aerial view of Nizwa

Muscat, the East Coast, and Nizwa pretty much make a triangular shape on a map, so you could add Nizwa in either before or after your East Coast stop. It takes about an hour and a half to drive to Nizwa from Muscat, or even less if you’re heading there from the East Coast.

Things to Do in Nizwa:

Nizwa is a historic city with plenty to do, such as:

  • Shop at the Nizwa Souk, a labyrinth-like market that is known for being one of the busiest spots in the city
  • Sample the city’s famous Omani dates
  • Tour the well-preserved Nizwa Fort – the top of the tower will give you amazing views of the city and the nearby mountains
  • Visit the Falaj System, an ancient irrigation system that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the Bahla Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Climb to the Jebel Akhdar, a mountain peak that is surprisingly full of lush greenery

How long should you spend in Nizwa?

That depends – if you’re only wanting to explore Nizwa itself, two or three days should be enough. However, if you want to spend more time checking out the surrounding areas, you will need about five or six days.

Musandam Peninsula

Also known as the Ruus Al Jibal, the Musandam Peninsula forms the northeastern point of the Arabian Peninsula. Its a very remote area that isn’t often frequented by tourists, but its ancient and mystical ambience never fails to charm a new visitor.

Things to Do in the Musandam Peninsula:

  • Take a ride on a traditional dhow boat to sail through the area’s sparkling blue fjords, which usually also includes a snorkelling session
  • Go cliff jumping, canyoning or swimming in the area’s wadis
  • Take a dolphin or whale watching boat trip
  • Visit the 17th century Khasab Fort
  • Take a drive along the 17 mile winding coastal road from Khasab to Bukha
  • Paraglide over Zighy Bay

How long should you spend in the Musandam Peninsula?

There is so much natural beauty here – it usually takes the average visitor about two to three days to check out everything on offer. However, leave yourself some extra time if you want to spend a couple of days relaxing in the area’s stunning beaches.

The North Coast

Aerial view of Sohar

The northern area of Oman is famous for having some of the country’s most fertile land, meaning that this is where you will a large number of farms. This stretch of coast sits between the sea and the Al Hajar mountains, giving you the best of both worlds when it comes to things to do.

Things to Do on the North Coast:

  • Explore Seeb, a town filled with colorful traditional shops and a bustling atmosphere
  • Tour the Bait Na’aman, a fortified house that dates all the way back to the 1690s
  • Check out the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve, which is located 10 miles off the coast and is where thousands of migratory birds nest during April and September. Snorkelling and diving are also popular activities here
  • Visit Sohar, a town that is famous for its whitewashed fort and the Sultan Qaboos Mosque
  • Drive along the Wadi Bani Kharus, which has only been recently accessible by car due to the new road that has been build. This wadi is home to seven mudbrick villages and sediment that spans the past 500 million years

How long should you spend on the North Coast?

You will need at least a couple of days to explore all that the North Coast has to offer.

Extra Tips for Your Omani Road Trip Adventure

Putting together a realistic itinerary is often the most difficult part of planning a road trip in Oman. After all, some areas will appeal to you so much more than others, making it difficult to know in advance how much time you want to spend in each.

Fortunately, good accommodation is easy to find in Oman, giving you plenty of flexibility if you want to wing it and see where your journey takes you. Camping is another option, with wild camping allowed throughout the country. However, keep in mind that, especially in the more mountainous regions, it can get pretty cold at night!

Since Oman receives about 10 to 13 hours of daylight, you can cover a large amount of space each day. Most roads are also in great condition, making them a joy to drive.

Can You Start Your Omani Road Trip from Dubai?

Dubai still receives so many more visitors than Oman. Once there, the unique glimpse into Middle Eastern life that Dubai provides is enough to tempt visitors to see more of the region, leading to many looking into an Omani road trip.

Can this be done from Dubai?

Technically, yes, but there are a few things you need to be aware of…

It takes about four and a half hours to drive from Dubai to Oman, and this doesn’t include any stops. With all of the queuing involved, the border crossing can sometimes take quite a while. You will also need to make sure that the car you have rented in Dubai is allowed to cross over into Oman.

You also have the option of flying from Dubai to Oman, and then starting your road trip from Muscat. Flights take about an hour, and this is usually the easiest option.

Oman is an incredible place to visit, especially if you are able to take the time to road trip around the country. This is a part of the world that is packed with history, culture, and natural beauty, meaning that just about everyone will find something about Oman that truly appeals to them.

Middle East, Oman, Road Trip | Comment
Travel |

August 1, 2016

| OROGOLD

Great Beaches in the Middle East

 

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Rus S / Shutterstock.com

The Middle East is home to some of the finest beaches in the world, but, due to political reasons, beach tourism is often not promoted heavily in many areas. Nevertheless, each of these beaches are truly spectacular in their own right, and are well worth considering for your next beach vacation.

Beit Yanai Beach, Israel
Considered to be one of the best beaches in Israel, Beit Yanai Beach is located about a 20-minute drive from Tel Aviv. Since the beach is run and managed by the Israel Parks and Nature Authority, it is extremely clean, relatively quiet, and has some great facilities. Since the beach is not protected from the sea, it often experiences massive waves, making it a popular spot for surfing and kitesurfing.

Khor Kalba Beach, Sharjah, UAE
The beach at Khor Kalba is extremely hidden and tucked away, but this is a large part of its charm. What it lacks in amenities, it makes up for in privacy, seclusion and incredible natural beauty. From the surrounding mangroves to the nesting turtles, Khor Kalba in itself is an important nature reserve, and the beach is a fine example of a conservation success. The waters here are calm, and if you want the utmost in serenity, it is best to pay the beach a visit during the weekdays.

Mughsayl Beach, Oman

Katiekk / Shutterstock.com

Mughsayl Beach, Oman
Oman boasts about 1000 miles of coastline, many parts of which are just simply breathtaking. Hidden away in southern Oman, Mughsayl Beach offers quite a diverse experience, depending on when in the year you visit it. In the summertime, it is reminiscent of a tropical Caribbean island, with coconut groves and banana plantations lining the pristine sand, while in the winter months, giant waves crash into the cliffs, with water exploding out of blow holes dotted along the coastline. The beach is situated about 40 kilometers from Salahah, and is easy to access.

Naqoura, Lebanon
Situated in the south of Lebanon, Naqoura is a small city that boasts an expansive, and extremely clean, beach. Unlike many of the other beaches in Lebanon, this one is free of beach resorts, large crowds and noisy bars, giving you the opportunity to hear the sound of the waves crashing onto the sand, and the breeze rustling through the trees in the forest behind the beach. To access the beach, visitors need to cross a beautiful orchard, which also serves as a turtle reserve, and is home to a number of other wildlife species too. Rumour has it that developers are interested in Naqoura’s beach, so if you want to experience this untouched slice of paradise, now is the time to visit.

While the Middle East may not immediately spring to mind when planning a beach vacation, there is no denying that the beaches found in this part of the world are extremely underrated. From the sandy coconut groves of Oman to the abundant wildlife in Naqoura, these are all considered to be some of the finest beaches that the Middle East has to offer.

Beach, Beit Yanai, Best Beaches, Coastline, Great Beaches in the Middle East, Hidden Beach, Israel, Khor Kalba, Kitesurfing, Lebanon, Middle East, Mughsayl Beach, Naqoura, Natural Beauty, Nature, Nature Reserve, Oman, Oro Gold, Orogold, Orogold Cosmetics, Sharjah, Surfing, travel, UAE | Comment

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