How to Travel Like a Local in Oman - Guide to Enjoying and Exploring Oman like an Omani

 As one of the Middle East's most dynamic tourist destinations, Oman welcomes visitors from around the world. Revered for its rich cultural heritage, the Islamic county remains a popular getaway option for those in search of something more than a Middle Eastern shopper's paradise. From adhering to local customs and traditions to digging into local treats, here are some tips on how to travel around Oman like a local.

Image via freeimageslive

 1. Hit the Road on Your Own Wheels

Although most travellers prefer to take public transport options or use taxi services to get around a foreign country they are unfamiliar with, securing a rental vehicle is by far the best way to get around. As the most popular means of travel for locals, driving around Oman can be a wonderful experience as the quality of the highways and byways has improved greatly over the years. The lack of public transport options apart from the Mwasalat private bus service means that getting around via taxi can be both expensive and impractical for those who wish to see more of the country at their own pace. That's why an international driving license will come in handy as one can rent a vehicle upon arriving in Oman and drive around like a local.

  2. Dig into Turkish Delicacies

While there are a great many Middle Eastern cuisines one can sample during a trip to Oman, locals tend to stick to Turkish dishes when dining out. From piping hot shawarmas to other exotic foods and beverages, tourists can wine and dine in one of the local hubs for Turkish fare at Al Khuwair. As one of the most popular Turkish food districts in Muscat, the area's many restaurants and street food stalls offer diners some of the cuisine's best-loved dishes at affordable price points.

 3. Stroll down Lovers Road

As a well-known hangout for locals, the area known as Lovers Road belongs to the Qurm Al Shatti region of Muscat. The seaside street not only offers ocean vistas and a cool atmosphere, the area truly comes alive after dark when the city's fanciest vehicles and revellers head to this charming beachfront street to enjoy a quiet stroll after dinner. Those who are based at Avani Muscat Hotel or any one of the other Muscat Oman hotels will have easy access to Lovers Road.

 4. Dress like a Native

As an Islamic country, tourists must be extra careful about their holiday attire when travelling to Oman. This is where following the lead of the locals is not only an option but a necessity. A conservative dress sense will get one far in Oman where locals respect and appreciate tourists that conform to their cultural biases. Exposing the shoulders and area below the knees is a faux pas for both men and women although children can get away with wearing more skimpy outfits. Keeping a shawl or a sarong handy when visiting mosques and other cultural points of interest is also wise as these venues require a modest dress code.

 5. Avoid PDA

Public displays of affection are also prohibited in Oman and visitors should avoid hugging, kissing and other acts of intimacy when sightseeing or walking around in public venues. This goes not only for couples but for married pairs with children as the rules do not differ whether you are married or not.

 6. Unwind with Karak Chai

Also known as Shai Karak, this sweet-tasting tea is arguably the best way to unwind after a busy day of shopping or sightseeing. Locals love to grab a cup of Karak Chai from a local cafe or coffee house and while away the hours in the afternoon as the tea is known to induce a relaxed state of mind. The availability and how addicted the locals seem to be to this particular type of tea have earned Karak Chai comparisons to alcohol.