72 June 2013 www.bahrainthismonth.com An Arabian Paradise Elma Bartholomew Are the joys of your last vacation wearing off? Is it too soon to take another lengthy break? We’ve found the middle ground — a long weekend in Salalah. Oman’s second largest city after Muscat and the traditional capital of its southern province of Dhofar, Salalah is perhaps one of our best options for a weekend getaway. A visit to the subtropical city will have you wondering if you really are in the Middle East, especially if you are there in the peak monsoon season (or as they call it, (khareef). For those who have been to Muscat, be prepared to be hit by a contrasting setting. If you’re here between mid-June and midSeptember, you will be instantly spellbound by the greenery reminiscent of South India, which is not surprising as it is the monsoon clouds of the subcontinent that offer the constant drizzle in the area. Who knew that this part of the world had mountain ranges with gushing waterfalls? Surrounded by misty pastures and the pleasant weather, relaxation comes effortlessly. This province is meant for those who would enjoy being at one with nature. The oasis of captivating flora and the cool breeze isn’t the end of your trip. If I was to describe Salalah in one word, it would be ‘diverse’. If you go towards the coastal town of Mirbat, which is a mustvisit, you will have the luxury of viewing the infinite hill range or jebel on one side of the road, while you’re enthralled by the stunning white sand beach on the other. In a vast land like this, you will have to be prepared for long drives (most likely in a 4x4 owing to its often rocky terrain). Aside from coconut-fringed beaches, you will find plenty of plantations on your road trip, the usual suspects being bananas, papayas and pineapples. In addition to its own rich culture, the birthplace of the Sultan Qaboos bin Said is influenced by Oman’s former territories in East Africa as well as an international lifestyle. Like many Arab states, it has a large expatriate population. For the pilgrims The religious traveller will benefit from visiting Nabi Ayoub’s tomb, which lies 40 kilometres away from Salalah. As a sign of respect, it is advisable to remove your footwear and women should cover their head with a scarf. The reverence that envelops the area is a one-of-a-kind experience. It has to do with beauty just as it has to do with religious beliefs. The small stone mosque in the compound is believed to have been used by Nabi Ayoub (Prophet Job) for prayers. You can also find his footprint on stone by the tomb. The story behind this is awe-inspiring. Another highlight is the gorgeous gardens that are spread across the plot. The drive up Jebel Ittin is beautiful as well. In downtown Salalah is the tomb of Nabi Umran, also known as Imran. It’s a pleasant place at the back of which there is a small garden with peacocks, guinea fowl and other birds. destination Khor Rori
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