{"id":121,"date":"2019-07-11T09:18:00","date_gmt":"2019-07-11T08:18:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/swisstraveler.net.mars.preview-kreativmedia.ch\/wp\/uncategorized\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/"},"modified":"2024-03-17T11:50:14","modified_gmt":"2024-03-17T10:50:14","slug":"omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/","title":{"rendered":"Oman\u2019s far south of Salalah &#8211; Coastal bliss off the beaten track"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Where_to_stay_in_style_what_to_do_on_a_four-night_stay\" title=\"Where to stay in style &amp; what to do on a four-night stay:\">Where to stay in style &amp; what to do on a four-night stay:<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#General\" title=\"General\">General<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Economy\" title=\"Economy\">Economy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#ClimateBest_time_to_go\" title=\"Climate\/Best time to go\">Climate\/Best time to go<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Get_in_get_around\" title=\"Get in &amp; get around\">Get in &amp; get around<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Activities\" title=\"Activities\">Activities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Where_to_stay_in_style\" title=\"Where to stay in style\">Where to stay in style<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Al_Baleed_Resort_Salalah_by_Anantara\" title=\"Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara\">Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Location\" title=\"Location\">Location<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Rooms\" title=\"Rooms\">Rooms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Facilities\" title=\"Facilities\">Facilities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#AmbianceStaff\" title=\"Ambiance\/Staff\">Ambiance\/Staff<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Food\" title=\"Food\">Food<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#What_to_do_on_a_four-night_stay\" title=\"What to do on a four-night stay\">What to do on a four-night stay<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Day_1_beach\" title=\"Day 1: beach\">Day 1: beach<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Day_2_Salalah_city_tour\" title=\"Day 2: Salalah city tour\">Day 2: Salalah city tour<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Day_3_east_of_Salalah\" title=\"Day 3: east of Salalah\">Day 3: east of Salalah<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Day_4_west_of_Salalah\" title=\"Day 4: west of Salalah\">Day 4: west of Salalah<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Overall\" title=\"Overall\">Overall<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/oman\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal-bliss-off-the-beaten-track\/#Pin_it_for_later\" title=\"Pin it for later\">Pin it for later<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_style_what_to_do_on_a_four-night_stay\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Where to stay in style &amp; what to do on a four-night stay:<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">Salalah, Oman\u2019s second-largest city not very far from the Yemeni border, is quite different from the capital of Muscat. It is much quieter, relatively unspoilt by tourism and boasts some kind of micro-climate. And it is usually not the place you visit on your first visit to Oman as it is best reached by a domestic flight from Muscat. My husband and I did not make it here until our fourth stay in the Sultanate but were glad that we finally did it! <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><\/span><br \/>\n<a name=\"more\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"General\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">General<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">As I highlighted in my previous two posts about Oman \u2013 an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.swisstraveler.net\/2019\/06\/oman-perfect-destination-for-seekers-of.html\">overview<\/a> and a report about the mountainous region of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.swisstraveler.net\/2019\/06\/omans-jabal-akhdar-spectacular-mountain.html\">Jabal Akhdar <\/a>\u2013, this country owns a versatile landscape that one would not expect from a desert state. Of course, there are sandy areas but also fantastic beaches, beautiful coastlines and a magnificent green mountainscape.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-S5MOg42mok0\/XO6rSPkvKdI\/AAAAAAAAHCc\/YgHSQwjy1Vwo4job1pNMbAU-9SD10dKEACLcBGAs\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a72.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-S5MOg42mok0\/XO6rSPkvKdI\/AAAAAAAAHCc\/YgHSQwjy1Vwo4job1pNMbAU-9SD10dKEACLcBGAs\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a72.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economy\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Economy<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">The city of Salalah with a population of about 300,000 is located on the southern coast of Oman and is the capital of the Dhofar province. It is also the birthplace of the current sultan, Qaboos bin Said. <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><\/span>Thanks to the incense trade, fame and wealth were brought to Salalah in ancient times. Frankincense has been produced here for many centuries and it is still omnipresent,<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-b4u28il_aP8\/XO6pV9ReVyI\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/6JOZAKVdoiIBYynrvJXGj_ZUaxDXv7ezQCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a31.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-b4u28il_aP8\/XO6pV9ReVyI\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/6JOZAKVdoiIBYynrvJXGj_ZUaxDXv7ezQCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a31.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">although nowadays, it has lost most of its importance. This loss of significance went hand in hand with Salalah\u2019s decline. In the past years, efforts were made to catch up with modern development by upgrading its industrial port. Efforts have also been made to promote tourism but the big boom has not arrived (yet).<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ClimateBest_time_to_go\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Climate\/Best time to go<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">Salalah boasts some kind of a micro-climate. Although having a hot desert climate, its summers are cooler than in the north of Oman and in the neighboring countries of the Arabian Peninsula. This is due to the so-called phenomenon of khareef. The region is touched by monsoon winds between June and September and the temperatures drop to \u201ccooler\u201d 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). It rains almost every day and the landscape transforms from desert in a lush green environment. During the rest of the year, it is hot in Salalah although temperatures seldom go over 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).<\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">While June to September here are popular for Middle Eastern tourists (when the temperatures are soaring in their countries), European and \u201cnormal beach vacation makers\u201d will usually not appreciate these conditions. The perfect time for a visit for them is from October to April. <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><\/span>Due to the micro-climate in Salalah, fruits like coconuts and bananas as well as some vegetables can be grown here, what makes this city quite green also in dry periods and results in pretty color spots throughout the urban area.<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-XvbH7jQiHE4\/XO6pbTSWT3I\/AAAAAAAAG-k\/CBy_8yFKIP407c4rs7_FykxB4Yt-tXXfgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/IMG_2690.JPG\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-XvbH7jQiHE4\/XO6pbTSWT3I\/AAAAAAAAG-k\/CBy_8yFKIP407c4rs7_FykxB4Yt-tXXfgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/IMG_2690.JPG\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_in_get_around\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Get in &amp; get around<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">Salalah can be reached by car from Muscat in about 10 hours (1,050 km\/652 miles), but I would advise against doing it as the drive is supposed to be scenic only on the section between Muscat and Nizwa. Afterwards it seems to be rather flat and boring, the road and horizon appearing to form one never ending continuous mirage.<\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">The best way to get to Salalah is by plane. Oman Air flies from Muscat about three times a day and the flight time is about 90 minutes.<\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">If you want to explore Salalah\u2019s surroundings, a rental car is essential as there is very little public transport available. An extensive and ever-expanding network of modern roads is here at your disposal.<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Activities\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Activities<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">As mentioned, many Arabian tourists pay Salalah a visit in the khareef season from June to September. During this time, the khareef festival is also run to celebrate this spectacular season, featuring traditional performances alongside stalls selling Omani handicrafts and typical food. <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><\/span>From October to April, Westerners especially come here to make use of the beautiful white sandy beaches of Salalah.<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-kk-JKTzc_BE\/XO6pcUS6AVI\/AAAAAAAAG-4\/IXqr6YCEOYcs38PzWYEa2rNi0s9T6gv1ACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_559c.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-kk-JKTzc_BE\/XO6pcUS6AVI\/AAAAAAAAG-4\/IXqr6YCEOYcs38PzWYEa2rNi0s9T6gv1ACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_559c.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">While there is a focus on beach vacations, an increasing number of tourists also makes day trips in the immediate surroundings. Whereas the city of Salalah does not have abundant places of interest, there are several worthwhile things to do nearby, for nature lovers as well as for people interested in culture. <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><\/span>Before going into these activities, here my recommendation where to stay here as a discerning traveler.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_style\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Where to stay in style<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>UPDATE:\u00a0<\/strong>Hotel <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alilahotels.com\/hinubay\/\">Alila Hinu Bay<\/a> has been open since May 2021<\/p>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">The one and only place to stay for travelers seeking luxurious accommodation is Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, opened in 2016. <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><\/span>Maybe this luxury hotel will be joined in the time to come by another one as there is an ongoing development in work, in fact another Alila property (see here my post with my review of the other one in Oman \u2013 in Jabal Akhdar, in the mountains). I do not have information about the project progress. I read that it should have been opened already but this is apperently not the case. At least there is a corresponding sign on site.<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-gEaAFQCW8wQ\/XO6s-J9dIII\/AAAAAAAAHCo\/7qaQnqb2phc0U1THIMAm6hejFe9FOqw_gCLcBGAs\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_571a.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-gEaAFQCW8wQ\/XO6s-J9dIII\/AAAAAAAAHCo\/7qaQnqb2phc0U1THIMAm6hejFe9FOqw_gCLcBGAs\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_571a.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1600\" data-original-width=\"1070\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">As to the location, it is not exactly close to Salalah but in Mirbat, more than a one-hour drive from Oman&#8217;s second-largest city.<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Al_Baleed_Resort_Salalah_by_Anantara\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.anantara.com\/en\/al-baleed-salalah\">Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"> <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/>Now to the hotel where we had a great four-day stay!<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Location\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Location<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">The hotel is situated between the beautiful white beach and a lagoon at the city\u2019s east end, bordering the Al Baleed archaeological site. The setting is great, near the city center yet secluded enough to be considered as peaceful beach destination. It can be reached in a 20-minute drive from Salalah Airport.<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rooms\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Rooms<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">Out of the 136 rooms comprising of premier and deluxe rooms as well as one- resp. two-bedroom villas my husband and I opted for a one-bedroom beach villa<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-3096\" src=\"http:\/\/swisstraveler.net.mars.preview-kreativmedia.ch\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/670F092F-59CA-4D57-8D2E-88A1E9DD967E_1_201_a-1030x688.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1030\" height=\"688\" srcset=\"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/670F092F-59CA-4D57-8D2E-88A1E9DD967E_1_201_a-1030x688.jpeg 1030w, https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/670F092F-59CA-4D57-8D2E-88A1E9DD967E_1_201_a-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/670F092F-59CA-4D57-8D2E-88A1E9DD967E_1_201_a-768x513.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/670F092F-59CA-4D57-8D2E-88A1E9DD967E_1_201_a-1536x1027.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/670F092F-59CA-4D57-8D2E-88A1E9DD967E_1_201_a-1500x1002.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/670F092F-59CA-4D57-8D2E-88A1E9DD967E_1_201_a-705x471.jpeg 705w, https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/670F092F-59CA-4D57-8D2E-88A1E9DD967E_1_201_a.jpeg 1616w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1030px) 100vw, 1030px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">and friends who accompanied us for a one-bedroom lagoon villa. These accommodations come with personalized villa host services and separate living rooms.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">And our rooms were heavenly! My husband and I stayed at the only beach villa without pool \u2013 the ones with pool would have been better of course but they seemed a little too expensive \u2013 and our friends were upgraded to a lagoon villa with pool<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-9MJw5Ld0tsU\/XO6pQyJ9NOI\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/kIKBqY7-l6MHjdy9WX3Ia4LldA6LN2LoACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a22.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-9MJw5Ld0tsU\/XO6pQyJ9NOI\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/kIKBqY7-l6MHjdy9WX3Ia4LldA6LN2LoACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a22.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">so that they could stay near to us! These accommodations are extremely spacious (176 sqm), with a generous bedroom,<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-U6J7Kefc7uk\/XO6pOo304tI\/AAAAAAAAG-4\/zzZqRjuTMuEtSr6hfbtyaU51YaCyNXAPACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a1b.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-U6J7Kefc7uk\/XO6pOo304tI\/AAAAAAAAG-4\/zzZqRjuTMuEtSr6hfbtyaU51YaCyNXAPACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a1b.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">a huge living room with a kitchenette,<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-azy1MyO65YA\/XO6pQ9wDo5I\/AAAAAAAAHCQ\/BbeBdbcIre4bkwdtCnVENjz19L7X4DJJwCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a23.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-azy1MyO65YA\/XO6pQ9wDo5I\/AAAAAAAAHCQ\/BbeBdbcIre4bkwdtCnVENjz19L7X4DJJwCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a23.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">a lovely bathroom<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-rsAlBkbolyI\/XO6pO-m-u_I\/AAAAAAAAG_8\/yo5nB1E2Ito609Yi7KBilmLjDaO8kMDfgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a1e.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-rsAlBkbolyI\/XO6pO-m-u_I\/AAAAAAAAG_8\/yo5nB1E2Ito609Yi7KBilmLjDaO8kMDfgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a1e.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">and a private garden with direct beach access (pool villa only),<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-a8lEF76GOB4\/XO6pP-llAwI\/AAAAAAAAG_8\/FHd9i8mPgwc9qotlz_8-9gUCG0fWbjxIwCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a1f.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-a8lEF76GOB4\/XO6pP-llAwI\/AAAAAAAAG_8\/FHd9i8mPgwc9qotlz_8-9gUCG0fWbjxIwCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a1f.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">all of them with locally inspired touches in the decoration and furnishing.<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Facilities\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Facilities<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">The public spaces also show a design influenced by Omani architecture and culture, be it the lobby<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-zM2dTTZsVKo\/XO6pWJLqLRI\/AAAAAAAAG-k\/oY84VjifI0Qca34az5R28U5zLo2qHgaZQCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a32.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-zM2dTTZsVKo\/XO6pWJLqLRI\/AAAAAAAAG-k\/oY84VjifI0Qca34az5R28U5zLo2qHgaZQCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a32.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">or the way buildings are built and laid out, with the local coastal fortresses in mind.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-uzkcAwD8z8g\/XO6pSX1wH3I\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/flblUGhiqnwgpi11g2pFsS04BKet5TbmQCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a27.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-uzkcAwD8z8g\/XO6pSX1wH3I\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/flblUGhiqnwgpi11g2pFsS04BKet5TbmQCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a27.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">The swimming pool in combination with different decorative pools is a feast for the eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-t2OcxiWxfXk\/XO6pSozLQjI\/AAAAAAAAG-4\/0PHZ0Q8xBr8U5MiVgu1s1EaHwKwEMKM-gCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a29.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-t2OcxiWxfXk\/XO6pSozLQjI\/AAAAAAAAG-4\/0PHZ0Q8xBr8U5MiVgu1s1EaHwKwEMKM-gCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a29.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">And the beach is gorgeous, long and wide with white sand and lots of space.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-HZH4iWk5xVE\/XO6pSXA8QJI\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/vkPfIu2oJGA7tRwQCCmXdwb6eVtDqIUbwCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a28.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-HZH4iWk5xVE\/XO6pSXA8QJI\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/vkPfIu2oJGA7tRwQCCmXdwb6eVtDqIUbwCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a28.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">There is a gym along with a spa and hammam, further activities include beach and water sports as well as tennis. And there is much to do for children and teenagers, with an outdoor play area and children\u2019s pool as well as separate kids\u2019 and teens\u2019 clubs.<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"AmbianceStaff\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Ambiance\/Staff<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">What struck me most here, was the strong service orientation. Throughout our stay we experienced a warm hospitality. As we stayed in the villas, we could make use of a private butler service, which was great. Toodtu, our butler did a terrific job, kudos to her! A highlight were the activities around the birthday, which two of our party celebrated. On three occasions throughout the day attention was paid to this special date.<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Food\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Food<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">A great range of eating options is on offer here, from the main restaurant Sakalan<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-dnkgGYGgTFo\/XO6pRSxZnlI\/AAAAAAAAG-k\/Wn2gUsI7S7I3Qt8VDvmM7KQ06VC38IsdwCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a25.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-dnkgGYGgTFo\/XO6pRSxZnlI\/AAAAAAAAG-k\/Wn2gUsI7S7I3Qt8VDvmM7KQ06VC38IsdwCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a25.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">providing all-day international dining with an Omani touch, to Al Mina<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-Xbz2Vem-qPY\/XO6pfuB1K-I\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/8CHSmO0CRGQ5j4oG0y3PbQOpB-BotxgRACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_58ac.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-Xbz2Vem-qPY\/XO6pfuB1K-I\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/8CHSmO0CRGQ5j4oG0y3PbQOpB-BotxgRACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_58ac.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">with a beachside Mediterranean cuisine for lunch and dinner as well as Mekong<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-bcTk17t_WE8\/XO6pR65P1TI\/AAAAAAAAHCU\/6P3DQ8NbIswGi7X8OkZ9SOmCgIDitES8wCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a26.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-bcTk17t_WE8\/XO6pR65P1TI\/AAAAAAAAHCU\/6P3DQ8NbIswGi7X8OkZ9SOmCgIDitES8wCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a26.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">featuring a taste of southeast Asia (for dinner only.) While we tried out all three restaurants and considered them as good, I especially liked Mekong for its high quality food from Thailand, China and Vietnam.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-u9OOdp4HDlY\/XO6pbUOOGSI\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/p-hD6cX89bwYp_TsnT7Wkvysp_urHTnYACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a51.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-u9OOdp4HDlY\/XO6pbUOOGSI\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/p-hD6cX89bwYp_TsnT7Wkvysp_urHTnYACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a51.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_do_on_a_four-night_stay\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">What to do on a four-night stay<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_1_beach\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\"> <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><strong>Day 1: beach<\/strong><\/span><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">When spending four nights in Salalah, the first day, which is most probably only half a day due to the arrival, is \u2013 in my opinion \u2013 best spent to get to know the hotel\u2019s offerings and at the exceptionally beautiful white beach, also as an enterprising traveler as I am.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-xmAnLU4769I\/XO6peCEALZI\/AAAAAAAAG-k\/_AhCuxzYu_Miusl0T0aYwAVDYFAUyM87ACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55a3.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-xmAnLU4769I\/XO6peCEALZI\/AAAAAAAAG-k\/_AhCuxzYu_Miusl0T0aYwAVDYFAUyM87ACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55a3.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_2_Salalah_city_tour\"><\/span><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;\">Day 2: Salalah city tour<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">Before heading further, I think it is always a good thing to explore the area in your immediate neighborhood. When staying at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, this means Salalah\u2019s most important attraction, Al Baleed Archaeological Park (an UNESCO World Heritage) and Museum of the Land of Frankincense, right next to the hotel.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-lUERpYzBVuo\/XO6pauxaKdI\/AAAAAAAAHCM\/YsFiQpcIkC8pql90dn1aaI_vJZY51r3HACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a4f.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-lUERpYzBVuo\/XO6pauxaKdI\/AAAAAAAAHCM\/YsFiQpcIkC8pql90dn1aaI_vJZY51r3HACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a4f.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Apart from the mentioned archaeological site, the city of Salalah does not have many sights. Notwithstanding that, a short city tour provides the much-needed sense of place. While Al Baleed Archaeological Park can be visited via free shuttle bus from Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, you need a car to explore the city.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">Point of interests here are the following ones. Walk through the grounds of Al Hosn Palace, the palace of the Sultan of Oman. You cannot enter the premises, but it gives you an idea of its size.<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/--SksIcnBj6Y\/XO6pjB0HvDI\/AAAAAAAAG_8\/MywKln2XUlc_3Nijrf5ol9cefFgzX0n8ACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_58b5.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/--SksIcnBj6Y\/XO6pjB0HvDI\/AAAAAAAAG_8\/MywKln2XUlc_3Nijrf5ol9cefFgzX0n8ACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_58b5.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">Make a stroll through Haffa Souq right a<\/span>djacent to the Al Hosn Palace, a traditional market where frankincense is sold amongst other things.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-5WQBkAPSDP0\/XO6pUYhH-nI\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/xRzQf1Qk_EErY2IQmlkW8SCuMO17xJtzACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a2d.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-5WQBkAPSDP0\/XO6pUYhH-nI\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/xRzQf1Qk_EErY2IQmlkW8SCuMO17xJtzACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a2d.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<p>A short drive away you will find the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, which can be visited also by non-Muslims. We decided to skip this attraction as we had already gone to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">At the city\u2019s east end \u2013 about a 15-minute drive from the mosque \u2013 there is one of Salalah\u2019s most beautiful beaches, Ad Dahariz Beach, which is very popular among locals. You find here a (lighted) walkway, gazebos and an array of coconut trees.<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-XjPN-t_QdWE\/XO6pVGNrwyI\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/Y1s3hlFaV9U7XKBIfF9ERgnhj6BzC_1wgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a2e.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-XjPN-t_QdWE\/XO6pVGNrwyI\/AAAAAAAAHAM\/Y1s3hlFaV9U7XKBIfF9ERgnhj6BzC_1wgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a2e.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">Make a stop at one of the fruits stalls in the area to feast on locally grown coconuts, bananas or papayas.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-TT5gpOMT8m8\/XO6pVlFSR6I\/AAAAAAAAG_8\/9eHf7lb4dcIfAZ00mXbe9BJMsdcnd1l5wCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a2f.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-TT5gpOMT8m8\/XO6pVlFSR6I\/AAAAAAAAG_8\/9eHf7lb4dcIfAZ00mXbe9BJMsdcnd1l5wCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_5a2f.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_3_east_of_Salalah\"><\/span><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;\">Day 3: east of Salalah<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"> <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/>You can expect here a mix of cultural and natural points of interest. <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><\/span>First stop on this tour is Taqah, a fishing village, with a small fort worthwhile visiting.<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-BAmjm-cSPPE\/XO6pun9NuVI\/AAAAAAAAHCM\/O3fW7-jQTnANBsF5JSBvsSGEn6F-y8X-QCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55c0.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-BAmjm-cSPPE\/XO6pun9NuVI\/AAAAAAAAHCM\/O3fW7-jQTnANBsF5JSBvsSGEn6F-y8X-QCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55c0.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Next is Wadi Darbat, one of the region\u2019s most scenic ones, a valley with minty streams and cascading waterfalls.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-skHFtYjDYUA\/XO6pvJDbAwI\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/kW0x4m3Q1q03tGWKW8QHQSY-6Lt0gY-3gCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55c6.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-skHFtYjDYUA\/XO6pvJDbAwI\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/kW0x4m3Q1q03tGWKW8QHQSY-6Lt0gY-3gCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55c6.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<p>Camels are a common sight almost everywhere you go, most probably you will have to slow down more than once to let them pass the highway.<\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-5wrYGdmSlYM\/XO6pwA4K60I\/AAAAAAAAHB0\/3gZibLKmsNQTAdtXuxjskRDrv9YztVSMACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55cc.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-5wrYGdmSlYM\/XO6pwA4K60I\/AAAAAAAAHB0\/3gZibLKmsNQTAdtXuxjskRDrv9YztVSMACEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55cc.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<p>Not long after leaving Wadi Darbat, you come to Sumhurum (Khor Rohri), another archeological site (an UNESCO World Heritage). Here the remains of an ancient city situated at one of the most important frankincense ports in the antiquity can be found. While the site is less extensive than the one in Salalah, it is more thoroughly excavated and restored. A plus is the lovely natural setting between coast and hills, which contributes to the appeal of the place, a must-do activity!<\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-4ne5Owd8FQo\/XO66QzKM4lI\/AAAAAAAAHC8\/X05BWR5aJeMkFrFkL4H9xieGncjJdOLJwCLcBGAs\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_571e.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-4ne5Owd8FQo\/XO66QzKM4lI\/AAAAAAAAHC8\/X05BWR5aJeMkFrFkL4H9xieGncjJdOLJwCLcBGAs\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_571e.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"360\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<p>A possibly last stop before returning to Salalah is the town of Mirbat, home to a castle and old merchant houses in need of renovation. A nice spot to contemplate here is the old harbor, a sandy cove dotted with boats.<\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-w6L2M_MYUHs\/XO6pv2nX98I\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/XlSVQYJySH0xXGENI4kNG4HauGD_2WiXgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55ca.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-w6L2M_MYUHs\/XO6pv2nX98I\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/XlSVQYJySH0xXGENI4kNG4HauGD_2WiXgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55ca.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_4_west_of_Salalah\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Day 4: west of Salalah<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<p><span lang=\"EN-US\">This is the direction to go if you want to enjoy one of Oman\u2019s most spectacular mountain roads, the Zig Zag Road to the plateau of Jabal Al Qamar (Moon Mountain). This trip is more about enjoying the wonderful mountain scenery than going from one sight to another.<\/span><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-X44Tp41xYNc\/XO6qCfsrZsI\/AAAAAAAAHCM\/svVpJmycdTwFEZ1nxSHran6YU-8DDpYfgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_58ff.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-X44Tp41xYNc\/XO6qCfsrZsI\/AAAAAAAAHCM\/svVpJmycdTwFEZ1nxSHran6YU-8DDpYfgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_58ff.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p>First stop here is the tiny village of Mughsail, where a long pristine coastline catches your attention. In the rainy season (khareef) Arabian tourists come here in swarms for three natural blowholes, blasting jets of sea water in the air. Outside the monsoon they are less memorable and sometimes even cease to blow altogether.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-U9qMGcd9q-I\/XO6pw_rp-0I\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/qqQt-zhL7hA9rlES2vYd1rM9BLjXgiRWgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55d6.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-U9qMGcd9q-I\/XO6pw_rp-0I\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/qqQt-zhL7hA9rlES2vYd1rM9BLjXgiRWgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55d6.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p>After climbing up the mountain road there is a parking lot on the left side where you reach \u2013 after a few steps \u2013 a superb viewing-point. The most insanely beautiful hidden beach can be seen from here, supposedly called Fazayah Beach.<\/p>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-_PpzQObjmeI\/XO6pxb4gCwI\/AAAAAAAAHCI\/ViHk2s7TiaQk6Hdtsmka5HE2IBMbjcpzQCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55dc.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-_PpzQObjmeI\/XO6pxb4gCwI\/AAAAAAAAHCI\/ViHk2s7TiaQk6Hdtsmka5HE2IBMbjcpzQCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55dc.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<p>If you have enough time, why not walk down and have a swim here? But check out such an undertaking with the hotel\u2019s concierge first as I have no idea how to proceed and how much time you need for this.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">When driving in this mountain range, encounters with camels seeking to cross the road are for sure. Be prepared to stop when camels are around!<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-SGE7axJx_cg\/XO6pxNhFrMI\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/0-s_Jh2u5NYo5dHdVP8JgvbQR6yK-ZlEgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55da.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-SGE7axJx_cg\/XO6pxNhFrMI\/AAAAAAAAHCA\/0-s_Jh2u5NYo5dHdVP8JgvbQR6yK-ZlEgCEwYBhgL\/s1600\/fullsizeoutput_55da.jpeg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1067\" data-original-width=\"1600\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<p>At an altitude of 1,000 m (3,281 ft) \u2013 and after the first military checkpoint, bring along your passport \u2013, you have reached the highest point, marked by a radio mast. Enjoy the panorama when the weather permits it and either drive on towards Yemen or return to Salalah.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overall\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\"><span style=\"font-family: 'arial' , 'helvetica' , sans-serif;\">Overall<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\">Salalah might be not the first place to go if you think about traveling Oman as it is preferably reached by a domestic flight from Muscat. We needed four attempts until we made it here, but we are pleased that we eventually managed it! This lesser visited paradise of the Gulf is certainly worth spending four nights. Not only is Salalah the ideal beach destination \u2013 with a fantastic hotel on site that will satisfy even the most demanding guests \u2013, but there are quite a few things to do for enterprising travelers, too! <br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><br class=\"avia-permanent-lb\" \/><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">Date of visit: April 2019<\/span><br \/>\n<span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\">\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pin_it_for_later\"><\/span><strong><span lang=\"EN-US\">Pin it for later<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" href=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-1xbayKqGu28\/XT2mg_oFWDI\/AAAAAAAAHOc\/qEuS8t4xVrs7KEEe4yuWbLOFLiVICGIiQCLcBGAs\/s1600\/Oman%2B19%2B3-1%2B%25281%2529.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/1.bp.blogspot.com\/-1xbayKqGu28\/XT2mg_oFWDI\/AAAAAAAAHOc\/qEuS8t4xVrs7KEEe4yuWbLOFLiVICGIiQCLcBGAs\/s1600\/Oman%2B19%2B3-1%2B%25281%2529.jpg\" border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1600\" data-original-width=\"1070\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"><\/div>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/www.swisstraveler.net\/2019\/07\/omans-far-south-of-salalah-coastal.html\">Oman\u2019s far south of Salalah<\/a>, coastal bliss off the beaten track first appeared on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.swisstraveler.net\/\">Swiss Traveler<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Where to stay in style &amp; what to do on a four-night stay: Salalah, Oman\u2019s second-largest city not very far from the Yemeni border, is quite different from the capital of Muscat. It is much quieter, relatively unspoilt by tourism and boasts some kind of micro-climate. And it is usually not the place you visit [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1629,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[28,107,105,27],"tags":[88],"class_list":["post-121","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-africa-middle-east","category-africa-middle-east-activities","category-africa-middle-east-hotels","category-oman","tag-beach-trip"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/121","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=121"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/121\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15896,"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/121\/revisions\/15896"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1629"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=121"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=121"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swisstraveler.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=121"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}