Summer Holiday Activities

The summer holiday season (anytime from the beginning of June to the end of August) is a time that most Omanis dread. It is infamous for its scorching weather and unrivaled temperatures. Not only that but it can get quite boring if you have no clue of what to do with your time.
Some may be lucky enough to travel overseas to enjoy a cooler climate. But the rest are left behind. It is for those people that this thread has been opened.

** What many of you might be unaware of is that, opposed to popular belief, Oman is full of activites and places to go to. It is just a matter of acknowledging all of this, and being able to comprehend the unlimited opportunities and experiences that our dear Oman has to offer!

Please do not hesitate to share any ideas, suggestions or comments about any available activites to engage in, places to visit and things to do during the summer holiday.
Feel free to ask about anything that crosses your mind!

I guess I would take a trip to down south of Oman to Dhofar or Salalah, and enjoy the khareef there on the mountains with a tent and mosquito repelant and keirosene lamp. Never had that experience yet, but I'm planning to do it one day but not this year, as this year I'd be really busy working till September.

One of the other places that I would love to visit is Tanuf and the Jabal Akhdar areas, which I heard no matter what is the weather out here in Muscat it would still be a beautiful place to be.

As of beaches in those sunny days I don't think its a good idea, as the sand would be burning hot, what if now itself its burning so someone could imagine when the temperature goes really high about 45 and above... I don't think I can take such high temperatures, am not used to it.

But yeah, a run-away to Salalah at these times would be a good idea.

Lol, Im actually coming to Oman in this period when everyone else is running away from it. I dont know, probably living in this cold country for this time, I've missed the heat.

I've planned to meet friends, organise bbqs, get that license, play football etc. Hopefully I'll have a good time inshallah.

I think its just about time someone revived this thread. I believe there's no better time than now. I shall be back with a detailed post very soon, until then, anyone please feel free to share any info.





(PS. this thread is not for complaining, criticising or behavioural mis-conduct towards anything related to Oman. I'm willing for it to stay this way! Have a nice day! )

... I know there are countless places one could go in Oman... it truly is NOT a boring country... if you know the places and make a plan then u'll see how wonderful it can be... I was told once that Oman has many virtues and is a great country only people here don't know how to use it ....
very well... let's say the diving club for example... the u canm also go see dolphins or go surfing. Al-jabbal al-akhdar would be the best place for hiking or camping or having a picnic... one could indeed join clubs like the PDO and have fun there... ummmm there are really nice restaurants!! I'll come up with more when I know them...

book alot of them,drinking tons of water,fighting with my sis all the time.the last one in paking my bag,room is a mess and alot of movies,well that is mine

Sorry for my lateness in replying to the thread!

** What many of you might be unaware of is that, opposed to popular belief, Oman is full of activites and places to go to. It is just a matter of acknowledging all of this, and being able to comprehend the unlimited opportunities and experiences that our dear Oman has to offer!

There is something for everyone in Oman!

Oman offers excellent opportunities for an exciting range of land, water, leisure and recreational activities.
For fun or adventure, Oman has more than enough to offer everyone.
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Oman is a country with an enormous wealth of natural attractions, fascinating culture, stunning landscape and a warm welcoming people who take pride in showing off their country to visitors(being foreign or local).
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Many of the activities I am about to mention will require long drives. Only then will one be able to appreciate everything our dearest Oman has to offer.
There is also however an abundance of activities and sites that are available for everyone to enjoy within the Muscat region.
The activities include everything from one day trips to overnight or even packaged trips/adventures.
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The following information could be categorised into several categories:

Local Tourism - Which includes travelling to, visiting and sightseeing of many different locations across the Sultanates region.

Natural/Geological sightseeing -

Daily Activities (suggestions) -

It is recognized worlwide that Oman has a geological heritage so unique and so accessible that it is almost unrivaled anywhere on Earth. It would possibly take a lifetime wandering around the world to observe all the geographical features which can be found in Oman. The geology of Oman represents a cross section of almost all the rocks in our planet.
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I would recommend a one day trip to the following places in the inner region of the Sultanate (Al-Dhakhiliya): Nizwa - Bahla - Tanuf - Jabrin

One would seek out the palaces of yesteryear from which Sovereign Lords surveyed their Kingdom at Nizwa. From there they could stop by at Tanuf on their way to Bahla. Walk amongst the ruins of Tanuf and get an idea about the use of loam with which the town was built. Tanuf is famous for its mineral water springs. Later on, on they way to Jabrin stopping by the magnificent fortress of Bahla, whose origin predates the advert of Islam. The fort is undergoing renovation by UNESCO. Bahla is the oldest recorded region of civilization in Oman and is also known for its pottery. From here it is a short distance to the mighty bastation of Jabrin and crown seat of the Al-Yaruba dynasty.
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Omani Caves -
Majlis Al-Jinn
Kittan Cave
Bird Sinkhole
Wadi Darbat

All of the above caves have so many interesting and amazing facts about them. No doubt many of you have heard of some of these famous places before.
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Omani Wadis -
Wadi Bani Khalid
Wadi Shab
Wadi Tiwi
Wadi Al-Abyadh
Wadi Al-Houqain
Wadi Dheeqa
Wadi Fida
Wadi Dham
Wadi Al-Taieen
Wadi Dima
Wadi Dooka

Each and every one of these Wadi's has its own distinguished feature, and distinctive environment to be thoroughly enjoyed.
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As absurd as it may sound, but for those luxury seekers out there that wouldn't mind spoiling themselves to a mesmerizing indulgence one could even consider spending the weekend in one of Oman's luxurious hotels or resorts, indulging theirselves in an unforgettable experience.

My personal suggestions would be the following 5-star hotels/resorts:
The Bustan Palace Hotel
Al Sawadi Beach Resort
InterContinental Muscat
The Chedi Muscat
Grand Hyatt Muscat

(The suites at both Bustan Palace and Grand Hyatt are exhilirating, the top class services, the views, the facilities... the works!)

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Khareef Salalah - Definitely one of the most sought after touristic destinations in the sultanate during its autumn season. Usually best experienced during July-August. When most of the region hides from the intensity of the scorching summer sun, Salalah - the land of frankincense - wears a mantle of mist and lush greenery. This natural phenomenon of rain-bearing fog is known as the 'Khareef Season' which every year attracts many thousands of tourists, especially families. It is Oman's heaven on earth during the summer season. Breathtaking sites, panoramic views and everlasting memories are guaranteed!

Khareef Festival - The Khareef festival is held every year from mid July to the end of August. The Khareef festival is a complete festival for the family - covering all interests, from shopping to games and from adventures to shows. The organising committee has planned a number of attractions to entertain the toruist. Some of the activities planned for this year are Heritage Village, Childrens Theatre, Tele Matches, Dolphin Shows, Family Entertainment, International Circus, Kite Festival, Fireworks, Cartoon Shows, Concerts(by high profile Arabic artists and bands) and Omani Folklore Shows.

Attractions -
Al Balid
Khor Rouri - Excavations have revealed a walled rectangular shaped town. Five stone inscriptions were discovered written in Arabic southern alphabet describing the establishment of the town, from which it is evident that from which it is evident that the town was built to ascertain the domination of frankincense trade. This same place is also infamous for its supernatural occurences among Omani's.
Lost City of Ubar (Shisr)
Tawi Attair 'Well of Birds' - is a natural sinkhole over 100 metres wide and 211 metres deep and one of the deepest in the world. As the name suggests, Taw Attair is home to many species of birds that can be seen swooping in and out of the sinkhole during the Khareef (monsoon) season.
Wadi Darbat - is a natural park with majestic views of waterfalls, lakes, mountains, caves, wildlife and lush green vegetation. During the Khareef season there is a 100-metre waterfall and many cave chambers with old stalactites and stalagmites.
Nabi Ayoub's Tomb - The Tomb of Nabi Ayoub (aka the Prophet Job from the Old Testament) can be found in the mountains about 40 kilometres from Salalah. The Tomb marks the place where the remains of the Prophet can be found, and there is also a small stone mosque believed to have been used by Nabi Ayoub for prayers.

Springs - Arzat, Jarzeez, Sahnout, Hamran and Athoum.
Mughsayl

There is a choice of accomodation available in Salalah ranging from simple self-catering flats to five star luxury offered by the Crown Plaza (formerly the Holiday Inn) and Hilton Salalah Hotel.
Please note that advance reservations are strongly recommended during the Khareef Season, mid June to mid September.
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Go-Karting - Oman Automobile Club (located on the opposite side of the airport, not too far from Golden Tulip Hotel previously known as Seeb Novotel). Not only that but it also has a variety of other activities and sports that could be enjoyed such as cricket, golf, motocross, dune buggies etc.

Health Clubs - Joining a health club or gym could be one of the most beneficial moves one could do during their summer holiday. Don't let the weather be an obstacle!

Bowling - With the opening of several bowling alleys around Muscat, it has been one of the rapidly growing sports/activities among our youth. Available at Bahja Complex, Al-Khuwair (Oman Bowling Centre), Sultan Qaboos University and Sheraton Hotel (Ruwi).

Movies - Joining a movie club or dvd library as they are sometimes called can fill your time with rather enjoyable times whether with friends or family, even if you're all on your own. Its always a chance to catch up on the great movies you've missed and always wanted to watch.

BBQ dinners/get-togethers - with almost an endless list of prime spots or locations.

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This is all the info I have gathered and was able to post so far.
I sure do hope that I have mentioned something worth reading for everyone out there. I may not have covered everything as it is virtually impossible, however your replies and participations would be greatly appreciated.

Do you have other suggestions to share?? The please do not hesitate at all, no matter how simple they could be, who knows.. someone out there might be looking for just that!

well long time i went to a farm its called "Mazra3at il-na3am" or something... its in Barka... anyway its really nice at the farm... there they have Ostriches, Horses, Camels, Crocodiles, Ducks..... i went long time ago and i thought it was fun.. but it was very very HOT..

I believe I've been to one... I'm not quite sure if its the same one you're referring to here
I remember that it was a great experience, but the weather was a problem too

the weather was a huge problem... its sooo hot now....
but at the farm it was really great.. i think everyone should visit it atleast once.. really great place

This thread is indeed a wonderful one
Well done

I might come and add some stuff latterz

Thanks Thuggy!
Looking forward to all members' participations!

Informative thread , sadly I won't be in Oman this summer to enjoy anything. Maybe that's a blessing

This thread to be kept alive