When you’ve exhausted the many historical and scenic attractions of Oman and thoroughly explored its waters, it’s time for a spot of souvenir shopping followed by some much-needed pampering before you head home

Shopping in Oman’s traditional markets (or ‘souks’) is an adventure in itself. You can devote a whole afternoon or more to wandering the mazes of alleys, browsing the stalls and soaking up the lively sights, sounds and smells. Alongside fresh produce, livestock and a variety of household goods, the spirit of Oman can be found in its silver jewelry, traditional garments, rugs and other handicrafts. Go prepared to bargain when you buy as it’s all part of the experience.

The Silver Road

Silver can be found in abundance in Oman’s souks, from chunky necklaces and bangles to delicate earrings and ankle bracelets. Prices are cheaper than in the West and the designs are unique. For a true memento of Oman, take home a “Khanjar” (a traditional curved dagger) which is the country’s national symbol.

Heavenly Frankincense
Oman is at the heart of the frankincense trade and you can detect the sweet aroma on every street corner. There are huge stores selling nothing but frankincense in all the major cities around the country. The fragrant resin comes from the boswellia sacra trees that grow near the Nejd Desert and Dhofari Mountains. According to tradition, the smoke from burning frankincense has healing powers and brings harmony to a room. It’s most commonly available in crystal form packaged in plastic bags or containers. The best frankincense money can buy is known as “silver” while darker crystals indicate lower quality.

Must-see Markets

Muttrah Souk, in the old quarter of Muscat, is the most famous market in Oman. The market is a labyrinth of small alleys lined with stalls and it’s easy to get lost. The most commonly found items are frankincense, perfumes, spices and antiques. Bedouin women in traditional dress sell ‘Bukhoor’, which are fragrant woodchips, soaked in sandalwood, frankincense and other essential oils.

Tucked away in a corner of the market is the Golden Souk where you can custom design your jewelry, mixing gold with pearls and precious and semiprecious stones. You can also find traditional Bedouin clothing here including dishdashas (robes), kummers (caps), mass (turbans), surwal (trousers) and lihaffs (shawls).

If you have the time, Nizwa Souk is also worth a visit. Located two hours from Muscat, this souk is famous for its high quality silver jewelry and other objects. You can also find old rifles, pottery, wooden jewellery boxes and other traditional items. The market has a great atmosphere on any given day but on Fridays, everyone in town gathers at the market in the early morning to buy and sell cattle.

Time to Relax

Once you’ve finished shopping, treat yourself and your tired feet to an idyllic spa treatment. In line with Oman’s traditional architecture, Six Senses Spa, located in the Bay Six Senses Hideaway Zighy in Musandam features nine luxuriant treatment rooms built into the mountains, outdoor showers, and idyllic gardens.
The Al Nahda Resort & Spa, in Barka, just three kilometers from Muscat, offers head-to-toe customized services for each guest according to their ailments that incorporate exercise, physical therapy, massages and beauty treatments.

At Chi Spa, located at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort in Muscat, all treatments begin with a hot cuppa and a warm foot bath peppered with fragrant rose petals. Guests can then select from a range of treatments such as a hilot massage or facial in the comfort of their private spa bungalow.
You’ll go home feeling like a new person.

Useful Links:

www.sixsenses.com/Six-Senses-Hideaway-Zighy-Bay/Six-Senses-Spa.php
www.alnahdaresort.com

Images by:
Cnntraveller.com
Tripadvisor.com

Amitmitbawkar.com