- We're looking to go scuba diving. Is ODC still the place to go? Any other companies and/or locations reliable and good?
- How do you get to go see the turtles these days? Last time I went, I drove down with an Omani friend of mine and we slept on Turtle Beach at Ras al-Had to wait for the turtles to come in, which they did. I imagine that's way too "unofficial" these days;
- Is Jabrin Fort finished yet? Would love to go as it looked very interesting;
- Best bar in town? I liked Al-Ghazal at the Intercon so we will likely go there for old times' sake. But other ideas would be welcomed;
- How can we get to play a round of golf on a grass course? It was all sand when I lived in Oman!
- Best shopping experience? I lived in Qurm and I see there's a City Centre there now. Is it better than the Seeb City Centre? Always felt a bit short changed there;
- I hear A'Seefah beach is being developed. Is it still worth a visit for a day out at the beach? If not, where's the best place to go? I used to go to Qantab Beach but I hear it has declined lately;
- Is Wadi Shab still a not-to-be-missed experience? I know there's a black top all the way there these days (what a shame) so it is well within striking distance, but if it is not as it was then we'll give it a miss and go somewhere else;
- Any other advice?
Thanks a lot. See you in Oman (we may pass each other in the street - or the beach - or the shopping centre) and never know!
5 comments:
Hi, I don't live in Muscat so I'm not sure about all your questions, but I do know 'The Wave' just launched their golf course. Andy wrote about it here
http://andyinoman.wordpress.com/2011/12/04/almouj-golf-course-at-the-wave-is-now-open-to-the-public/
Hiya!
Going to see if I can answer as much as I can :)
1 - I don't dive but I know friends who still go to ODC for it. Otherwise get hold of the people at Marina Bandar al Rowdha or Al Sawadi Resort as I know others who go there.
2 - I think you have to go through the hotels/companies to see the turtles now. Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve is the place to go as they have priority if I remember right.
3 - No idea, sorry.
4 - Al Ghazal is a bit cattlemarket, but so are most the places here. I feel most comfy in Left Bank or the Piano Bar at ShangriLa, but what can I say, I'm a classy lady!
5 - Golf = as DG mentioned, check with Andy in Oman or Muscat Mutterings re the new course.
6 - Qurm City Centre is pointless. I only go there because it is closer to home than Seeb, but if I want "proper" (and I use the term loosly) I go to MCC, which now has the M&S there but no Borders :(
7 - The couple of times I've been to Qantab beach it has been filthy, while ODC means dealing with some interesting staff members! There is a new hotel at Jebel Sifah called Sifawy and it looks amazing, don't know about the beach being public tho.
8 - Not sure.
9 - Fancy bringing me some jammy dodgers and parma ham over? Lol :) have fun.
OB
For the turtles you need to book a permit in advance to go on one of the turtle watching tours. Contact: reservations@rasaljinz-turtlereserve.com You can either stay at the turtle nesting beach itself - at Ras Al Jinz scientific centre, or at Turtle Beach Resort at Ras Al Hadd.
Yes I know people who still go to ODC
Best Bar - I personally like Park Inn (rooftop) with this gorgeous weather and Left Bank (Majan). I have heard John Barry bar at the Hyatt is also good.
Shopping - I still stick with Seeb City Centre.
Enjoy!!
Thanks for all your advice. I'll get cracking and make some bookings so that we don't miss out when we're over.
TheOmaniBrit: Love both Jammy Dodgers and Parma Ham. I'll gladly bring some for you but they may be a little nibbled by the time they get to you - it's a long flight from the UK you know!
Is D'Arcy's Kitchen still at Shatti Qurm Beach shopping area? That was my favourite cafe.
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