Sultanate

We are going very far off the beaten path in this episode of the Sultanate, to the Hellhole! See the pictures at the associated episode post on my website. Just click here!  Sultanate Ep 035: Hellhole Associated blog post at Beyond the Route Learn about, and see other MECET expeditions MECET on Facebook Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

In this episode of the Sultanate, I talk about the life and death of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said. On this day, July 23, in 1970, Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said took power from his father Sultan Said bin Taimur Al Said in a coup d’état. This was the day that the Sultanate of Oman entered into its renaissance, and this day is celebrated as Renaissance Day. Who is Sultan Qaboos, what is the renaissance, and why is he revered among Omanis? Learn more at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!  Sultanate Ep 034: Sultan of Oman Links Associated blog post at Beyond the Route Sultan Qaboos Obituary Buy the Symphonic Impressions of Oman by Lalo Schifrin Read Sultan Haitham's first speech Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

In this episode of the Sultanate, I sit down with Tom Ordeman to discuss Wilfred Thesiger and his novel Arabian Sands. Tom Ordeman, Jr. is an information security practitioner at Oregon State University, and a part-time military historian. When he was an anti-terrorism consultant in Kuwait from 2010 to 2012, Oman became part of his responsibility. Later, Tom fell in love with the Sultanate of Oman during a life-changing visit in 2012. He's written several articles for Small Wars Journal, and he's previously discussed Oman on the War College podcast and the International Spy Museum podcast, called Spycast. Join us as we discuss Wilfred Thesiger and Arabian Sands. Learn more at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!  Sultanate Ep 033: Arabian Sands with Tom Ordeman Links Spycast - When COIN Works: An Interview with Tom Ordeman War College - The Most Important Middle Eastern Country You’ve Never Heard Of Tom's articles on Small Wars Journal 5 Must Read Histories of Oman prepared by Tom Ordeman Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

In this episode of the Sultanate, I sit down with my friend Nadhira al Harthy to discuss why there are so many chip brands in Oman, the quirky ways to consume the sumptuous fried snack, and conduct a taste test to find the most popular chip in Oman. Be apart of the conversation. What is your favorite chip in Oman?  Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

This month on the Sultanate podcast we sit down with my friend Nadthera to discuss a noteworthy section on Oman’s food culture, the chips! The episode launches on the 10th of January, 2019. Subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, learn here. Follow the show and learn more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

Ashura is a significant occasion for all Muslims, but it is particularly important for Muslims practicing the Shia branch of Islam. Little known to outsiders, Shias in Oman quietly observe this occasion openly among the narrow streets of Muttrah. Join me as I share with you the unique sights and sounds of Ashura in Oman. Be sure to view the images, and learn more at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!  Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

This month on the Sultanate podcast we visit downtown Muttrah, late at night to observe a unique religious event. You don't want to miss this one. The episode launches on the 10th of October, 2018. Subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, learn here. Follow the show and learn more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

The best time to visit Oman is... well, it depends on a lot of factors. The climate and weather being the most significant. Just like the British, it seems us Omani residents discuss the weather, a lot. Usually it’s something like, “It’s really hot today,” or “Wow, the humidity came out of nowhere.”  There is no hiding the fact that Oman is a hot, desert country. We are within the tropic latitudes, and hold a portion of worlds largest sand desert within our boundaries. High temperatures are in the forecast no matter how you look at it. However, the climate or weather shouldn’t deter you from visiting. In this episode of the Sultanate I discuss the different climate regions of Oman and give my opinions on the best times to visit Oman. Now I want to hear from you. Do you have and opinion on the best time to visit Oman, or a weather related travel story from Oman? I want hear it. Leave me a note in the comments. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Here in the Muslim world it is the holy month of Ramadan, where worshipers fast during daylight hours to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Mohamed. The major mosques in the sultanate host post-fast meals called Iftar which take place at sunset and before the Maghrab prayer. For this audio postcard I’m here in Ruwi, which is the business district of Muscat, observing the moments before Maghrab and Iftar. In the parking lot of Sultan Qaboos Mosque, an area is cordoned off for a communal feast of rice and grilled chicken. There are hundreds of participants here all seated in long straight rows, sitting on ground mats in front of large round aluminum platters folding their feast. Near the platters are large bottles of cold water, cartons of laban (a yogurt buttermilk) and dates. Officially the fast ends as soon as the Muezzin starts the Adhan. Everyone breaks fast together. Ruwi Drama So, I specifically went to Sultan Qaboos Mosq...... head over to the website to read about the full drama. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

This month I am sending you an audio postcard from the town of Ibri at the animal market. One of the popular activities tourists do in Oman is visit the animal market in Nizwa on Friday. While this is nice to do, it gets overrun by tourists at times. What people don’t know is these animal markets happen all over Oman in the major towns. So, it’s not just unique to Nizwa. The Ibri market happens on Saturdays, and as you can hear is very lively. The buyers stand on the outer perimeter of the shaded pen. While the sellers circle in the middle calling out their asking price for their cows, goats, sheep, and camels. At anytime a buyer can stop and inspect an animal or start negotiating. Unique Ibri What I like about visiting less known animal markets is the locals aren’t too used to foreigners and tend to be more receptive of your curiosity, but maybe that's just me. So, wether it’s Nizwa, Ibri, Rustaq, or Sinaw a visit to an Omani animal market makes for a fun morning. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Nestled at the entrance to the world's largest contiguous sand desert, al Hashman is a calm oasis in an inhospitable neighborhood. To your east and west your neighbors sit 70 kilometers away. North of you flows a sea of angry red sand. Those who are crazy enough to venture into that sea should hope to find the Saudi border before being shot at. Al Hashman is fascinating place. At first glance you wonder, "why would anyone live here?" However, look deeper and you'll realize al Hashman is more than a dusty outpost. Audio Postcard – al Hashman I'm trying out this new audio postcard format on the Sultanate. Do you like it? Surely, this formant will not stay forever, but let me know if you like it or not in the comments. Also, let me know if al Hashman sound like a place you want to explore. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Read my post about my friend Jeff, it's a goody. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you. Music: "Valantis" by Blue Dot Sessions

Oman is full of exciting places to explore. Places like our lush canyons and soft deserts. However, this excitement doesn't just reside in far flung and off-road locations. Most of these interesting places are right in front of us like the town of Mazyunah. Of course, Mazyunah isn't really an easy place to reach, or on the normal tourist route; but it is an accessible town nonetheless. Mazyunah is located on the border with Yemen and there really aren't many reasons to be passing through for obvious reasons. Mazyunah Unlike Others I've passed through Mazyunah twice during my travels, the most recent being with my mate Fahad Alabri on our epic journey to handstand the world's tallest dune. Both visits left me with huge smiles on my face. You see, Mazyunah is a town along Oman's border with Yemen. This proximity helps it to be wild, fresh, chaotic, and what I believe Oman to be like not too long ago. I relish both my visits to Mazyunah because they were unpredictable and surprising, unlike most of the little towns that dot the countryside. Mazyunah is definitely worth scheduling more time on my next visit down south so I can capture more of this unfettered reality. Put on your headphones because I take you into the heart of Mazyunah for this month's episode of the Sultanate via a new format, the audio postcard. It's not a permeant change to Sultanate, but let me know if you like it in the comments below. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Learning Arabic in Oman was one of my goals when I arrived back in 2011. I thought it would be easy to pick it up since I'd have plenty of opportunity around me to practice, just like when I learned Spanish. Well, it is 2018 and while I can speak enough Arabic to get by, and understand more than I can speak, I am nowhere near proficient. Before I leave this place I have to learn Arabic. My challenges to learning Arabic in Oman are: Time commitment Non-roman script Native Arabic speakers tend to revert to English when you try to practice Omani Arabic dialect very different from Modern Standard Arabic Drive Basically all of the above challenges boil down to drive. How bad do I want it? For now learning Arabic remains on the back burner, but recently it's on my mind because I put together a cool list of local Omani greetings with the help of Noor Majan Arabic Institute. I got in touch with Noor Majan who invited me down to their new Muscat campus. To the visit I brought along my microphone and met Sulatan al Faris, the Director; and Simone Bettega, one of their students. We talked about what it is like learning Arabic in Oman, how Noor Majan Arabic Institute is different from others, the types of courses they offer, the difficulties of learning Arabic, and the uniqueness of the Omani Arabic dialect. It was especially interesting talking with Simone because he specifically researched the Omani dialect for his doctorate degree. This episode of the Sultanate includes that conversation along with the list of Omani greetings, 10 ways. Check it out. Sultanate Ep 025: Learn Arabic in Oman Links Omani Greetings, 10 Ways Noor Majan Arabic Institute website Noor Majan Arabic Institute local courses (winter-spring 2018) Sultanate Ep 002: Language in Oman (discussion about the many languages spoken in Oman) List of Arabic words and phrases in Oman for visitors Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Music: "TGIF" by Tortue Super Sonic Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you. Disclaimer - Noor Majan Arabic Institute did not pay me or offer me any service to make this podcast. This is not an advertisement. All opinions are my own.

This month on the Sultanate podcast we visit Noor Majan Arabic Institute to talk about learning Arabic in Oman, the Omani dialect, and how to talk like a local: Omani greetings, 10 ways. This is a fun one, you don't want to miss it.... mark your calendars. The episode launches on the 10th of February, 2018. Subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, learn here. Follow the show and learn more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

The world's tallest dune is a magnificent sight. Standing tall at 455 meters, it pierces the barren landscape like a surgeons scalpel, but without the precision. Its meandering arms radiate, twist and bend in an attempt to dissuade you from clamoring to the peak. However, the luscious red sand seduces you into thinking it's possible. After a more than a 900 kilometer journey into Oman's Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter), I stand at the foot of a behemoth, the king of all giants, the grand daddy of them all; the world's tallest dune. At this point my trip is complete, I've reached the pile of sand, logged its location, and I can go no further. Yemen is to my east, 12 kilometers away, and Saudi Arabia is to my north, 36 kilometers over dense star dunes. However, standing to my right is Fahad Alabri, and his mission just started. Handstanding Atop the World's Tallest Dune In this episode of the Sultanate I team up with Fahad Alabri to locate, record, climb, and handstand the biggest, baddest dune of them all. Fahad is a local personal trainer who is on a mission, across the world, to use the act of handstand to break through cultural barriers while promoting health, fitness, and wellbeing. On his Instagram page, Fahad is seen upside-down all over Oman and beyond in places like Milan, London, Spain, and Zanzibar. Regarding this trip, "I really have not much of an experience to balance my hands in a sandy desert ground, but I'm going to figure it out," he says. "It's about the connection with the hands and the ground so I just have to manipulate my hands toward it, and then I am gunna go to the inversion." Tune in to find out if Fahad can overcome wind and sand to handstand atop the world's tallest dune. You can download the GPS files and read my track report at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!  Sultanate Ep 024: World's Tallest Dune Links Fahad's Instagram @cavemangram "Voices of Arabia" by Dr. Eid al Yahya D's Top 13 Sand Driving Tips Sultanate Ep 004: Rub' al Khali Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you. Music: "Mister S", "Neogrotesque", and "On Five", all by Tortue Super Sonic

Bonus cilp from episode 24 of the Sultanate. listen to the full episode here.  Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

This month on the Sultanate podcast we visit the tallest dune in the world which is located right here in Oman! Joining me on this adventure is my friend Fahad Alabri who attempts to handstand on the peak. It's not an easy task, but can he do it? Tune in to find out if he accomplishes his mission and why he handstands every city. The episode launches on the 11th of January, 2018. Subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, click this link. Follow the show and learn more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

National Day is celebrated on the 18th of November, the birthday of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. The whole country decorates the streets with Omani flags and portraits of their dear leader. For me it's the best time to be in Oman. Here's why: 7 Reasons Why National Day is the Best Time to Visit Oman 1. Weather The weather in November feels amazing. At this time we finally start to feel the affects of the coming winter, so the days are warm, and the nights are cool. This is also a good time to find rain in Muscat. 2. Decorations Omanis go all out with decorations. The prime examples come from the displays along the highways in Muscat. The Muscat Expressway is lined with miles of Omani flags. Along Sultan Qaboos Highway you find lighted displays on every lamp post and a string of colorful lights connection them all. In villages and towns, residents erect large portraits of His Majesty and hang Omani flag streamers which dance the the cool breeze. Locals are also allowed to decorate their cars, something we are not normally allowed to do. The results are really fun to see. Have a look at the National Day Car Series I photographed last year. 3. Celebrations Here's were it really gets interesting. It seems that throughout the course of November every company schedules some sort of celebration. It might be as simple as a luncheon with traditional Omani food. Or larger like a parade with a full marching band and dancing. These are all the privately organized celebrations. The government organizes events too. Fireworks displays, parades, and performances are just to name a few.  4. Invitations Omanis are great hosts so it's likely you will get invited to a celebration. I've heard stories of tourists driving through small towns and being stopped and invited to come and view the town's activities. A real special experience that is as real as it gets. 5. Surprises Every town has something different to offer. You never know what is around the corner. 6. Holidays We all love to have paid time off work, and Omani workers always receive two days off. These days, however, don't come on the 18th of November. Rather, they are usually given after the 18th and are positioned just before or after a weekend, often giving you a 4 day holiday. Who doesn't like that? 7. The Whole Month Basically the whole month of November is set aside for National Day, with the frequency of celebrations happening closer to the 18th of November. So, you can still experience National Day even if you can't make it for the 18th. While traveling around Oman you are bound to come across the wonderful sights and sounds of celebration. Come to Oman in November, you won't regret it. You can view find Oman's national anthem translated into English at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!  Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Bonus cilp from episode 23 of the Sultanate. listen to the full episode here.  Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

Who knew Surfing in Oman is a thing? While Oman is best known for many wonderful things includeing its expansive dunes, towering mountains, endless wadis, aromatic roses, and delicious honey; surfing in Oman is not one of them. However, quietly, this sport is alive and practiced by a group of friendly locals who tell me the waves are surprisingly good. In this episode of the Sultanate we meet three guys from the very welcoming group, Oman Surfers. Nasser al Gadani, Maynard "Japz" Ringor, and Gigante take a break from their surf session at Joe's Point to fill me in on all the details about surfing in Oman. We discuss the locations of the surf breaks, the best season for surfing in Oman, the dangers, and how to get involved. These guys are the real deal. Caring, passionate watermen who are open to sharing and newcomers. So, if you are interested to try your hand at surfing in Oman as a beginner or as a seasoned rider, be sure to look these guys up. You can view the map of all the surf breaks in Oman at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!  Sultanate Ep 022: Muttrah Fish Souq Links Oman Surfers - Facebook oman.surf - Instagram Map of the surf breaks in Oman Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Music: "Surfing Day" by Marcos H. Bolanos Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Bonus cilp from episode 22 of the Sultanate. listen to the full episode here.  Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

This month on the Sultanate podcast we go on a surfing safari with the Oman Surfers. The episode launches on the 12th of November, 2017. Subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, click this link. Music: "Surfing Day" by Marcos H. Bolanos Follow the show and learn more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

Recently the Muscat Municipality opened the doors to the long awaited Muttrah Fish Souq, so I’m down here poking around and finding out what’s changed under the roof of this modern building. Has tradition and charm left when we tore down the old? Let’s find out! In this episode of the Sultanate I bring my microphones down to the tour around the new souq. You can view images from this visit to the souq at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!  Sultanate Ep 021: Muttrah Fish Souq Links Sultanate Ep 007: Muttrah Souq 6 Fun Things to Buy at Muttrah Souq Riyam - Muttrah Hike (C38) Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

This month on the Sultanate podcast we head down the newly opened Muttrah Fish Souq. The episode launches on the 5th of October, 2017. Subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, click this link. Follow the show and learn more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

In Oman you have to be flexible, and that's exactly what I needed on my last Salalah road trip. My friends and I found ourselves stuck in the mud! In this episode of the Sultanate, my friend John and I take you along with us on a nine day trip from Muscat to Salalah and back again. Something you might be considering to do yourself. Along the way we visit rich lagoons, interesting geological sights, historical towns, tourist sights, friends, and a muddy pasture. There are so many sights to see in Salalah and Dhofar, including many ways to reach the area from Muscat. This Salalah road trip is just one option for an itinerary, but one I've been recommending to readers for years. It gives you a little bit of everything, and a heavy helping of adventure. You can view images from our trip down the coast at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!  Bottom line, if you have just over a week to visit Dhofar, consider taking the coastal route for a little more excitement. It is definitely off the beaten track. If you have less time for your holiday you might consider flying from Muscat to Salalah and hiring a car from the airport. That'll give you more time to see the sights of Dhofar. Also, don't try to do it all! Fourteen days is too short, in my opinion, to really enjoy both the south and north of Oman. Plan your trip wisely. Sultanate Ep 020: Stuck in the Mud - Salalah Road Trip Links City Hotel Duqm Review 7 Things to See Around Duqm Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Bonus cilps from episode 20 of the Sultanate. listen to the full episode here.  Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

Join me on a road trip to Salalah. The episode launches on the 11th…. September 11, 2017. Be sure to subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, click this link. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

No other wadi in Oman packs so much excitement into such a small place as Wadi Ta'ab. This little canyon has it all. Isolation, rappels, swims, jumps, sheer walls, and beauty. However, all these features require respect or the canyon will punish you. In this episode of the Sultanate I take you along with me to Wadi Ta'ab. Also joining us are my friends Franc, Gilles, and Marion. All of us are experienced climbers and two of us, myself and Gilles, have completed this canyon route before, but never in the dead of summer. Wadi Ta'ab is located in the Eastern Hajar Mountains at an altitude of about 500 meters along the dirt track that reaches Salmah Plateau. This whole mountain is made up of limestone, which is a soft stone that erodes easily, creating large caves and deep canyons. Along with Wadi Ta'ab, in this area you'll find the 7th Hole Cave opening and the world renown Majlis al Jinn. Safety Canyoning is dangerous! Do not attempt to enter this wadi unless you know exactly what you are doing. Help is very far away. With that said, canyoning is very exciting when done with expierenced guides like twenty3 extreme and Muscat Adventure Center. These companies can take you here safely, and get you home in one piece. For today's trip through Wadi Ta'ab, suffering from heat exhaustion is our biggest concern. Inside the canyon the temperatures are not too bad because we have shade and the water to cool off in. However, to exit the wadi we must climb up the side of a cliff in the direct sun. This is not for the weak. We also have to keep watch for vipers which like to feed on the frogs in the wadi. These snakes really don't want anything to do with us two legged animals, but it is easy to accidentally step on one if he didn't hear us coming. If you get bitten it'll take an long time to reach the hospital. So, better to be cautious. Lastly, we have new ropes to use on the big rappels. We hope they are long enough. There is no room for error. Put on your harness and swimming trunks, we're heading to Wadi Ta'ab! You can view images from Wadi Ta'ab at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out!   Sultanate Ep 019: Wadi Ta'ab Links twenty3 extreme Muscat Adventure Center Learn more about the Eastern Hajar Mountains: Salmah Plateau, 7th Hole Cave, Majlis al Jinn Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Join me in Wadi Ta'ab. The episode launches on the 11th…. August 11, 2017. Be sure to subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, click this link. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

Living and working in Oman has its many positive qualities. The expat life is diverse with outdoor activities and the beautiful landscape clearly at the top of the list. However, there are others things to consider if you are job hunting in Oman. In this episode of the Sultanate I sit down with my mate Jonty Baulk to discuss what it is like living and working in Oman. We cover topics like jobs, working culture, working hours, recreation, salaries, packages, the Oman Labour Law, and the Omanization. Our conversation starts off in my recording studio at my super secret location, but we finish the discussion in typical expat fashion; over a pint of cold beer at the local watering hole. There is one more topic discussed at the associated episode post on my website. Check it out! Sultanate Ep 018: Expat Life Links Jonty's previous appearances on the Sultanate, Ep 001, Ep 004, Ep 009 Oman Labour Law Oman InterNations Ras al Hamra Recreation Centre The Lazy Lizard 13 Ways to Beat the Heat in Oman Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Oman is full of surprises tucked away in dusty corners of this vast land. Honey bees are just one example. However, it should be no surprise that apiarists cultivate liquid gold from the honey bee. The Qur'an speaks highly, and encourages this ancient craft:  And your Lord revealed to the bee saying: Make hives in the mountains and in the trees and in what they build: Then eat of all the fruits and walk in the ways of your Lord submissively. There comes forth from within it a beverage of many colours, in which there is healing for men; most surely there is a sign in this for a people who reflect. (The Qur'an, An-Nahl 16.68-69)  Bee Adventure In this episode of the Sultanate, I enlist the help of my friend Yasir al Thahli to teach me more about this quiet past time. Yasir keeps his own bees on his farm in the Hajar Mountains, and when you ask him just one question about bee keeping, you quickly realize how passionate he is about bees. Especially for their delicious product, honey. Being a young man, Yasir is still new to this craft, but learning from his mentor and friend, Omar. View the images I shot from my visit to Jebel Dawi in the associated episode post on my website. Omar al Hatmi is one of a handful of bee keepers who use the traditional Omani bee house, a hollowed out date palm trunk, laid on its side. I discovered during my visit, that there are only three other locations in the Hajar Mountains that keep bees in this traditional way. The modern square box being more popular for its efficiency. Omani Honey There are two main types of honey in Oman. Sidr and Smer, named after the trees that offer their precious nectar. Samr, which is harvested in the summer, is dark in color and tick in consistency. As opposed to the winter harvested, Sidr, which is light in both color and flavor. Omani Bee keepers are proud of their product, and ensure it is the highest quality and flavor. Some apiarists even move their bee colonies to different locations to ensure the best outcome. So, why do some Omani bee keepers use the traditional bee house as opposed to the modern box? Join me as I explore the answer to that question, and more, in the hamlet of Jebal Dawi. Sultanate Ep 017: Bees Keeping in Oman Links Goos and Agnes's previous appearance on the Sultanate, Ep 003 13 Ways to Beat the Heat in Oman Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a review on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

The Bees! episode launches on the 9th…. June 7th 2017. Be sure to subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, click this link. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

Every spring something special happens on the green mountain. The roses start to bloom, and the farmers descend upon their fields to collect their precious pink flowers.  I knew roses are grown for making rose water on Jebal Akhdar, but that's about all I knew until I decided to investigate for myself with my microphone. What I discovered is a traditional, dainty, craft that continues to thrive despite its many limiting factors. What wasn't limiting is the knowledge given to me by my new friends, the rose farmers I met in the village of al Ayn. Yahir al Riyami and Nasser al Riyami take us on an journey into the traditional life of the Omani rose farmers. View images I shot from this year's harvest in the associated episode post on my website. Rose Season Weather is the main factor in determining if the rose harvest will be good or not. This year there didn't see much rain, and I'm told it is significantly affecting their yield. A days picking could yield ten kilograms of flowers, but this year is averaging six kilograms for Yahir al Riyami. Typically the rose harvest starts at the end of March and lasts for about three weeks. However, a bit of rain can fend off the rising heat and extend the season for another week. This year the farmers received a day of rain just after the roses stoped blooming, unfortunately. Water is another factor in determining a good rose harvest. If the tanks are full, the farmers can expect to water using the falaj (traditional irrigation system) to transport water to their precious plants once every five days. This year brought an unusually dry winter and there is only enough water to irrigate every fourteen days, which limits the roses.  The Process When the roses start to bloom, it's all hands on deck to collect the fragile product. Brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters descend on the fields to pick the flowers before the sun rises and dries out the precious rose. There are two main ways to collet the the flowers. The first, and most common, is to take a men's massar (typically worn on the head), or a woman's hijab (also, typically worn on the head), and tie it around your neck in a way to create a storage sack for the picked roses.  The second method is only for the men, and is my favorite. One simply folds up his dishdasha and ties a knot around his waist with the loose material to create a knee-height rose collecting sack. This method can hold a huge amount of fresh roses. Rose Water Once the morning haul is gathered, the farmer takes the pink loot to his still where he will process the roses immediately to capture all the available moisture the flower has to offer. The rose water still is a simple device. At its center is a series of clay chamber pots that sit in a solid base made of concrete or mud. The number of chambers can vary depending on the amount of roses needing processing.  Under the chamber pots is the heat source, a flame. Gas is mostly used these days because it is consistent, convenient, and cheap. When the time comes the farmers places about one-half kilogram 0f his fresh roses inside the chamber along with a small bowl in the middle. Then covers the chamber with a concave lid filled with cold water. The heat turns the moisture in the roses into a gas inside the chamber which condenses on the underside of the lid and drips down into the small bowl. The whole process takes three hours and yields about 350 milliliters of rose water. The still can have anywhere from two to twenty chambers. The rose water from each chamber joins the others in a tank where it will sit for one to two months before it is bottled and sold. Uses Rose water has a number of uses. Mainly it is used as a cosmetic for its lovely smell, but it also has moisturizing and medicinal properties. I come across rose water typically in food. Omani Halwa often features the pleasant undertones of Omani roses, along with tea, and my favorite, coffee! Now you will definitely have a greater appreciation of Omani rose water the next time you spot a bottle in the souq. Sultanate Ep 016: Omani Roses Links Jebal Akhdar Guide Wadi Bani Habib RAF Venom Crash (Jebal Akhdar War) Sultanate Ep 009: Via Ferrata at Alila Jabal Akhdar Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

The Omani Roses episode launches on the 7th…. May 7th 2017. Be sure to subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, click this link. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

I've done canyoning, climbing, off-roading, hiking, flying, but there's one thing I haven't done in Oman. Caving! Probably the best cave chamber to visit is the Canyon Room, accessed from the Seventh Hole on the Salmah Plateau. Of course, the pinnacle of caving in Oman is Majlis al Jinn, but it's off limits by government order. So, this is the next best thing. However it's far from disappointing. The Seventh Hole derives it's name from being the 7th hole, or access point, found on the plateau. These seven holes access Oman's largest surveyed cave system. There are literally miles of passageways and chambers carved through the soft limestone, hidden below the surface. It's very fascinating, and something I only learned about on this most recent trip. I joined twenty3 extreme for this particular journey because I know nothing about caving or have the experience to safley navigate Oman's underworld. I needed a guide and they were going with an open group. twenty3 extreme is Oman's newest outdoor adventure company, offering guided experiences to the sultanate's most supreme locations. So I was excited to meet them and to see what they had on offer. Besides caving, they offer canyoning, hiking, via ferrata, and kayaking; all with qualified guides. This particular trip requires nine hours of training, which we all completed as a group. Senior Instructor Joe Daniels made sure we obtained the required skills to safely complete our journey. All the time and effort to prepare was worth it, as the trip is amazing.  So, join me as we abseil into the Seventh Hole, explore deep underground in the bowels of the Salmah Plateau, and claw our way back to the surface. Sultanate Ep 015: Seventh Hole Links twenty3 extreme Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Music Credit: Sly Tout Croche by Tortue Super Sonic (climbing scene) Disclaimer: twenty3 extreme did not pay me to write or speak about their company. In fact I paid them to join the trip, albeit a discounted rate. This episode and blog post is not an endorsement, just my opinions and experience. If this activity is terrible, I will tell you it is terrible. 

The Seventh Hole Cave episode launches on the 7th…. April 7th 2017. Be sure to subscribe using Sticher, the iOS Podcast app, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you don’t know how to do that, click this link. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

Paramotoring has quietly been around for a few years in Oman, but the new kids on the block, SkySchool, bring it to the next level. In this episode of the Sultanate I meet up with Seth Royce, who manages SkySchool Oman. He gives me the lowdown on what this crazy sport is all about, how he got involved with paramotoring, and what kind of experience one can expect when flying in Oman. Seth is a long time traveler but recent expat in Oman. You can feel the excietment in his voice when he describes his first experiences in the country through the purview of paramotoring, and his lust for more. So, join me as I take you down to al Sawadi Beach, and up in the air with Seth to see Oman from a truly unique angle. Thank you to everybody who participated in the survey. Sultanate Ep 014: Paramotoring Oman Links SkySchool Oman Instagram SkySchool Oman Facebook SkySchool Oman Website Beyond the Route's Reader 2017 Survey Thank you! #trypod and #trypodoman campaign images for you to use! Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

Most of you listen to the Sultanate podcast because of the information that I provide, but this project isn't about me. It's about filling a gap in the travel information for independent travelers to Oman. In other words it's about YOU! While, I am the conduit for good information from my point of view, I do realize that my view is just that... mine. So, in this episode of the Sultanate I meet and interview two pairs of travelers to Oman to get their perspectives. Both pairs originally reached out to me with questions they had while planning their visits. I love talking to new people, so I responded to their questions and offered to meet up with them when they were on the ground. It is interesting to me to see Oman from the perspective of a new visitor. Briana Jorgenson and Jason Forman are a young American couple who wanted to visit the Middle East, but were a little wary to visit Egypt or Jordan because of the safety risks. After seeing Oman pop up on a "places to visit" list, they decided the sultanate was the right fit for them. They hopped on a Turkish Air flight and arrived with a very full, self planned, itinerary as many visitors do. (Be sure to check out Jason's video from Oman on his Instagram account, it's really fun to watch.) Anthon Keuchenius and Bob Askew are long time travel buddies and chose to visit Oman so they can get close to Yemen. I though that was strange too, but I learned Anthon is journalist and writes a bit about Yemen. So, getting close to the story in Oman is the best he can do until the fighting stops. We actually met up twice during their visit. Once for lunch near the bus station at the start of their journey, and another time for a hike and overnight camp at the end. Anthon and Bob are longtime travelers with rich and diverse experiences to draw from. So, join me as we talk to four travelers in Oman and hear about their own visits to Oman. Thank you to everybody who participated in the survey. Visit my website to view the map and sample itinerary that is similar to the journeys the interviewees took in Oman. Click here to view.   Sultanate Ep 013: Traveler Interviews Links Ep 013: Traveler Interviews sample itinerary at Beyond the Route Beyond the Route's Reader 2017 Survey Thank you! Briana's Instagram @midnightcloaker Jason's Instagram @illking and Flickr page Anthon's Instagram and Twitter @abumelle, Facebook, and website. Bob wants to remain off the grid :) Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

There are a ton of caves in Oman of all sizes. Majlis al Jinn is the largest and most unique, but thousands of other caves dot the countryside and make for some interesting surprises if you happen to have a look. This month I share with you a taste from both sides of the cave spectrum. Richard "Roo" Walters is an amateur cave explorer who is on a mission to laser scan the world's largest cave chambers. He recently scanned Oman's largest chamber, Majlis al Jinn, and I was keen to talk with him for a few reasons. Firstly, the Majlis is off limits to visitors so it's rare to meet an adventurer who descended to the darkness. Secondly, I wanted to get his opinion and experience from inside the cave. Roo has visited all the large chambers in the world and can give us good comparison. Lastly, lasers are cool and the data they record can give curious adventurers like us the best view since we can't go ourselves. Lasers and restricted caves are fun and all, but Mohammed Said Ali brings us back to earth when he shows me his cave in Dhofar and tells me about the "tigers" (Arabian leopards) that can eat twenty of his goats in one night. I never met anybody who owned a cave before I met Mohammed. So, join me as I take you across the sultanate and into the caves! Lasers, Caves, Tigers and ghosts... What name do you give the Bond villain in this script? Tell me in a comment on my website. Sultanate Ep 012: Tigers, Caves, and Majlis al Jinn Links Roo's Majlis Cave flythrough Maio Room 3D Tour (National Geographic) Roo's Sketchfab Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter .

You probably didn't know it, but Oman is a fantastic place for rock climbing. There are some challenges with the heat, but the rock is fantastic, and the climbing community is even better. Strap on your climbing shoes we are going to the crag. I met up with local rock climber and professional life coach Read Macadam to give us an insight into the climbing community and the ongoing development here in the Sultanate. We talk about some of the places to climb like Hadash, Khubrah Canyon, Wadi Dayqah, Umq Bir, Jebal Misht, and Bandar Jissah. In these places alone you will find world class bouldering, sport climbing, trad-climbing, multi-pitches, and deep water soloing. Read also made a film called Valley of the Giants which features himself, Philippe Ribière and Dan Bates. In it the trio explore a remote wadi that features giant limestone boulders. The film really gives you a good flavor of rock climbing in Oman. You can view the film here. So, come along as we go rock climbing in Oman with Read Macadam. Finally, click over to this episode post at www.beyondtheroute.com to view the map with all the locations Read and I discuss. Sultanate Ep 011: Rock Climbing in Oman with Read Macadam Links Read Macadam's Website Read Macadam's Instagram Climbing in Oman Facebook Page 27 Crags - Sport Climbing Guide Website rakkup - Smartphone Guide (I highly recommend, and special discount!) Oman Adventure Sports Guides (these are dated, so please use caution) Climbing in Oman by Jakob Oberhauser via panico.de Climbing in Oman by Jakob Oberhauser via amazon Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Wishing you all a wonderful National Day celebration in Oman. New episodes on the 5th of every month. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter

When we travel and experience new places and cultures, inevitably we compare what is in front of us to what we know. Some things we easily understand, some we disagree with, other thing we even find funny. Being exposed to different ideas and experiences ultimately makes us better humans. Today, after six years of residency in Oman, I am still finding new and exciting observations in this wonderful place. During this episode of the Sultanate I take you on an audio tour and share with you "Nine Things You didn't Know About Oman." I teach you about honey wagons, construction, religion, mushkak, car horns, backwards water faucets, afalaj, the ocean, and of course, the weather. So, come along and join me as we search for the interesting things in the sultanate.  Sultanate Ep 010: Nine Things You Didn't Know About Oman Links Sultanate Ep 001: Introduction to Oman Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

I always wanted to try out a via ferrata, and it finally happened with a visit to Oman's newest via ferrata at the Alila Jabal Akhdar hotel. A via ferrata is a protected climbing route, and Jebal Akhdar is one of the most beautiful places in Oman. Mix the two together to make a memorable adventure in the mountains. In this episode of the Sultanate, Jonty and I take you along the via ferrata course at Alila Jabal Akhdar with the help of our guides Majid and Rob. Along the way Majid points out the variety of plants growing on the mountain, and how they are used by the locals. We also learn about the history of the surrounding area before we muscle up the challenging section of the course to take in the spectacular view. Via Ferrata at Alila Jabal Akhdar Details Cost for hotel guests: 35++ OMR per guest for 2 Hours Cost for outside guests: TBA by management once this service approved Reservations: email: jabalakhdar@alilahotels.com OR call: +968 2534 4200 / +968 9910 4204 Sultanate Ep 009: Alila Jabal Akhdar Links Alila Jabal Akhdar Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you. Disclaimer: Alila Jabal Akhdar hotel did not pay me to write or speak about the hotel. This episode and blog post is not an endorsement, just my opinions and experience. If this activity is terrible, I will tell you it is terrible. 

There are so many opportunities for adventure travel in Oman. Rock climbing, abseiling, caving, canyoning, via ferrata, hiking, and off-road driving are just a few adventurous activities practiced in the sultanate. One man, who has been to all of the great places, is Justin Halls. Justin Halls is a Senior Instructor with Muscat Adventure Center, and basically he takes clients to wonderfully beautiful places in Oman that you can not access without special knowledge, training, or equipment. He's the man when it comes to adventure travel in Oman. In this episode of the Sultanate, I sit down with Justin to discuss the places that are currently open to adventure travel in Oman, including what we can expect from Oman in the future. We discuss canyoning in Wadi Tab and Snake Canyon; caving in the 7th Hole Cave and al Hoota Cave; abseiling off Jebal Shams; and climbing the Jebal Shams via ferrata. I finish the conversation by asking Justin to share with us his idea of the best way to see Oman, using his ten years of experience traveling around the sultanate. So, join Justin and I as we travel beyond the tourist route to see Oman's hidden beauty. Episode Glossary There are a few words used in this episode that not all listeners will understand, and that's okay, because I have a handy glossary right here: Abseil - (v) to descend a steep slope or vertical drop using a rope secured from above - sometimes called rappel in North America. Khareef - (n) the name of the wet monsoonal flow that affects the Dhofar region of Oman. Via ferrata - (n) a protected climbing route that often includes a cable secured to the rock every 1-10 meters and allows safe climbing without the use of a rope. Sultanate Ep 008: Adventure Travel in Oman Links Muscat Adventure Center (website) Muscat Adventure Center Facebook Page Oman Adventure Facebook Public Group Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.  

With its narrow alleyways and tiny shops, Muttrah Souq offers shoppers a taste of traditional Omani life. Muttrah Souq quietly rivals other historical marketplaces around the world in terms of authenticity, but little was known about this important souq, until now. Meet Maxine Burden, the Australian author and expat in Oman, who literally wrote the book on the history of Muttrah Souq with her book Throw Down the Anchor: The Story of Muttrah Souq. She spent years gathering stories and photos from local merchants, residents, and shoppers to bring this history to life. In this episode of the Sultanate Maxine takes us on a tour of Oman's main shopping center to show us what she finds unique. She also gives us a great overview on the history hidden behind the souq's modern improvements. So, join Maxine Burden and myself as we go on-location to one of the worlds last remaining traditional arabian souqs. Grab your headphones, sit back, and relax!  View Muttrah Souq images in the associated episode post on my website. Sultanate Ep 007: Muttrah Souq Podcast Links Centre for Omani Dress Bait al Zubair Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Facebook Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

One of the qualities I like most about Oman is the small population. You can be 20 minutes outside of Muscat and find yourself, seemingly, the only person for miles. This seclusion gives you the feeling of owning a piece of Oman for yourself, even if it's just for an afternoon. One such place that makes me the sultan of my own kingdom is As Sifah Secret Beach. I took Lady M to As Sifah Secret Beach for a nice afternoon swim, not once; but twice during our travels recently. And in this episode of the Sultanate we discuss the exceptional qualities that make As Sifah Secret Beach our favorite place to have a private, peaceful swim in the greater Muscat area. Lady M is probably better known as Emma France to most. The two of us met at a friend's wedding in the Summer of 2015 in the Allgäu area of Germany. Lady M works for a children's book publisher and lives in sunny London. (Currently we are touring my home town of San Clemente, where there are no secret beaches at all!) After our discussion of As Sifah Secret Beach, Lady M also gives us a first hand report on the new Omani eVisa system, and how it can be best utilized on your travels to Oman. She concludes by giving us a great tip to employ when entering our details into the online eVisa system. So, join Lady M and myself for this episode of the Sultanate as we share with you our private beach. Visit the associated episode post on my website to view the map and GPX files relating to As Sifah Secret Beach. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

The Sharqiya Sands is one of my most favorite place in Oman. It has everything you could want; beauty, emptiness, mystery, easy access, and uniqueness. Whether you are into off-road sand driving, or you just enjoy the peace and quiet, the Sharqiya Sands is a must see in Oman. In this episode of the Sultanate I sit down with David, a geologist here in Oman, to discuss in-depth, what created the amazing Sharqiya Sands. Because of David's position in the oil industry, he has access to a wealth of research which he shares with us to give us a better insight and appreciation of the vast sand dunes. Before wrapping up we examine: the environmental impact recreational sand driving has on the Sharqiya, David suggests a few camps to stay at if you are not keep to tent camp, and why this location is sometimes confusingly called the Wahiba Sands as well as the Sharqiya Sands. Before speaking to David, I head out on a two day, off-road, trip through the Sharqiya with three of my mates: Goos (also featured on episode 3 of the Sultanate), Kif, and Paul. Together, we complete a test of the proposed route for next year's Wahiba Challenge off-road rally in order to help the Off Road Adventure Club gather valuable information on the conditions. During this trip we found the conditions challenging due to the direction of travel and especially the soft sand, forcing an unusual number of stuck and bogged vehicles in the team. In the end we survived unscathed, just a little sandy. But most of all we had a blast. So, join me on my journey as I the traverse the Sharqiya Sands with the boys, and get filled in on the desert geology with David. Sharqiya Sands Desert Camps Discussed in this Episode 1000 Nights Al Raha Al Areesh Nomadic Desert Camp Salma al Wasil Other Related Links in this Episode Off Road Adventure Club Sultanate Ep 003: What to Wear as a Visitor to Oman and Cultural Respect D's Top 13 Sand Driving Tips Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.  

The Rub' al Khali (الربعالخالي) literally means Empty Quarter in Arabic, and is the world's largest contiguous sand desert covering about 650,000 square km of land. To put that into perspective, the Rub' al Khali covers most of the southern third of the Arabian Peninsula with potions existing in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen, and of course, Oman. During the winter my mates Jonty and David joined me on the most epic off-road journey I have every embarked on. Destination: The Rub' al Khali. It's not the off-road conditions that make this journey epic, although they were challenging. But by no means extreme. It was the amazing views that stratified this journey for me. Pictures, words, or sounds cannot describe the feelings during this trip, but I'll try my best. We started off our Rub' al Khali journey in Muscat and drove all morning to petrol station one in Shib al Muqayrida where we filled up our tanks, grabbed some cool drinks, and started the GPS track recording. From here to the dunes is Oman's main oil area. The town of Fahud is the main camp, and it's clear you are in oil country. Oil operations began here in 1954, but commercial quantities didn't get discovered until 1964. I believe Fahud contributes to a majority of Oman's output, but I struggle to find current datainthe open source. But anyway, this place is super important for Oman. Out last interaction with parties outside our group was at our second petrol stop at Jibal. I carry about 130 liters of petrol onboard my magic carpeted ride, between the main and sub-tank. So, this stop isn't 100% necessary, but the jeeps don't carry as much, so we topped off as a precaution. The Jibal station is on private oil company land, and operates limited hours, closing for the typical early afternoon siesta, so don't rely on this station 100%. From here we go off-road and cross the salt plain basin of Umm as Samim (Mother of Poisons).The tracks are well used by the army and oil companies, so as long as you stayon the tracks you should avoid sinking below the dangerous crust. Take care if there is standing water after any rains. This place is a huge drainage basin where water collects from the Hajar Mountains. Makes you wonder if this is the reason why somuch oil and gas is found belowyourfeet. Satellite images illustrate the geography well. The sand dunes of the Rub'al Khali start just south of here, of which the largest are located just a few kilometers from the Saudi-Omani border. The third highest dune in Oman is located in this area, and is the focus of our journey. Our GPS measured it as 130m tall! On its own 130m doesn't sound very tall,but when you think about the fact that it's created by sand and wind alone, 130m truly comes into focus. This episode of the Sultanate covers our journey through the Rub' al Khali. The GPS track and important waypoints are located at www.beyondtheroute.com. We did this journey over the course of three days, and two nights. There aren't any campsites listed because this is the Empty Quarter after all, there's nobody around to bother you. Just pick what you like. Rub' al Khali Precautions and Safety Rules Bring a 4x4 in good working order. Bring safety and recovery equipment (shovel, kinetic rope, shackles first aid kit, fire extinguisher). Bring tools. Be clear on your route and navigation (GPS). Never go alone, minimum two vehicles. File your plan with a friend. Pack enough water (5 liters/person/day) + emergency water. Finally I'd like to add that the two nights spent in the Rub'al Khali were some of the darkest, most light pollution free nights I have ever had. Stargazing was off the charts! This Rub' al Khali journey is definitely beyond the route. So, come along and join us as we travel through the Sultanate. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments at www.beyondtheroute.com. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.  

In this episode of the Sultanate I chat with two of the most adventurous people I know, Goos and Agnes, about cultural respect as visitors to Oman, as well as clothing choices you need to make when planning a trip to the Sultanate. Goos and Agnes are a Dutch couple I met here in Muscat shortly after I arrived in 2011, and they bring to the table a wealth of knowledge from a lifetime of travel, including living and raising children abroad in some very exotic countries. Goos works in the oil industry which has taken him and his family to live in places like Pakistan, Scotland, Nigeria, Australia, and Oman. Currently Goos and Agnes are on their second posting in Muscat and can tell you some great stories about what it was like here on their first posting in the 1980s. We discuss the topics of: what to wear and what not to wear from both the men’s and women’s perspective, how to respect the Omani culture, how to project your marital status as an unmarried couple, how to stay cool when it is hot, handshaking, and I throw in a few stories for good measure. Head over to Beyond the Route to catch my recomendations on what to wear in Oman for both men and women. So, come along and join us as we travel through the Sultanate. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and tell me what you like in the comments below. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.  

In this episode of the Sultanate I sit down with two of my friends Abdullah al Wahaibi and Fayad al Zadjali to discuss; the different languages spoken in Oman, how widely English is spoken, Omani greetings, and we learn some useful Arabic phrases and words to help you on your travels. Abdullah is a Photographer for the Oman Chamber of Commerce. He works his butt off at the chamber so it's hard to nail him down to catch up with him because he sometimes travels for work and has a family life to mind. Abdullah lives in al Bustan village between Muttrah and the al Bustan Palace He speaks Arabic, English, and a bit of Hindi. You can connect with Abdullah through YouTube and Instagram. Fayad is an Operations Manager for Khimji Ramdas, Shipping Division. He speaks Arabic, English, Hindi, and Zadjali. I have definitely reaped the benefits of having a Hindi speaking friend, as he has helped me communicate with Indian expats a number of times. Muttrah is where Fayad calls home, as do a number people from the Zadjali tribe.  He tells me the Zadjali language is most spoken in a small section of Muttrah called Jeedan, maybe only 5% of the people living in Muttrah can speak this language, and it's in decline. You can connect with Fayad through Twitter and Instagram. Arabic is the national language in Oman, but I was surprised to learn, upon my arrival in the sultanate, that language in Oman runs wide and deep.  The vast number of languages spoken here is just one reminder of Oman's rich cultural history.  Languages and Dialects Spoken in Oman: Arabic, Bulushi, Zadjali, Lawati, Jibbali, Swahili, Hindi, Urdu, Bahrani Arabic, Baharna Arabic, Shihhi Arabic, Shehri, Lori, Bathari, Harsusi, Hobyot, Mehri, Shehri, Farsi, Kumzari. There are many reasons why so many languages exist throughout Oman, the most simplest answer comes from understanding that only since 1975 has Oman been "unified" after the Dhofar rebellion was suppressed. Before that time Oman was very much tribal, and even once had an autonomous interior government separate from the sultan's. The sultanate also once spanned from present day Tanzania all the way to parts of Pakistan/Iran. With such a far reaching kingdom comes a diverse culture and language.  Swahili and Bulushi are two examples, as both languages have their roots in these regions. You can still hear these languages today. I was once teaching a class full of expats at a local club. Well, they were all expats except for one middle aged Omani man.  Also, at the time I was taking Arabic classes and was eager to practice some of my Arabic when he stayed behind to chat with me after class. I started with "how are you?" and "Hello", all the standard stuff.  He looked at me with a smile, standing tall with his white dishdasha and kuma cap, and kindly told me, "I prefer to speak in English, I don't really know Arabic. We don't speak it in our home." This floored me. An Omani who doesn't speak Arabic? While uncommon, it happens in some homes. This man was from Muttrah, and spoke something other than Arabic at home, and as a child he was sent to private school where he studied in English. There is always something interesting to learn, and I love sharing with you what I learn about the sultanate. Be sure to check out the blog for a list of: Arabic Words and Phrase in Oman for Visitors. Follow the show and find more about Oman at: www.beyondtheroute.com Instagram Twitter Do you like what you hear? Be sure to tell a friend and leave a comment below. You can also leave the show a rating on iTunes. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.