28th October 2007 - Oman
Took a tour called Oman Heritage which travelled into the 'real' Oman. First we went along the easterly cornish to the coastal village of Taqa where traditional rafts and boats are still made. We saw views of the village from the cliffs and then visited the castle previously occupied by the Wali (local tribal chief). Next we went a further 20k to the tomb of Bin Ali who brought Islam to southern Oman - a very striking building and impressive tombstone. This was on the outskirts of Mirbat, a traditional Omani fishing port, where a number of traditional buildings with elaborate carved doors and windows still survive. We also saw the fort - not as well preserved as Taqa - and amazingly a collection of over a dozen teenage girls waiting at the door of the Madrasa (school) for a bus which was to transport them to an exam. The women in the party were allowed to talk to them but not the men. They were very happy to show Mandi and Jackie their geography books. Photographs were strictly verboten. We moved on to the port where we witnessed the catch of the day (see photos) being landed from traditional dhows. We returned to the ship via Salalah were we drank coconut milk through a straw straight from the topless (macheted) husk.
Took a tour called Oman Heritage which travelled into the 'real' Oman. First we went along the easterly cornish to the coastal village of Taqa where traditional rafts and boats are still made. We saw views of the village from the cliffs and then visited the castle previously occupied by the Wali (local tribal chief). Next we went a further 20k to the tomb of Bin Ali who brought Islam to southern Oman - a very striking building and impressive tombstone. This was on the outskirts of Mirbat, a traditional Omani fishing port, where a number of traditional buildings with elaborate carved doors and windows still survive. We also saw the fort - not as well preserved as Taqa - and amazingly a collection of over a dozen teenage girls waiting at the door of the Madrasa (school) for a bus which was to transport them to an exam. The women in the party were allowed to talk to them but not the men. They were very happy to show Mandi and Jackie their geography books. Photographs were strictly verboten. We moved on to the port where we witnessed the catch of the day (see photos) being landed from traditional dhows. We returned to the ship via Salalah were we drank coconut milk through a straw straight from the topless (macheted) husk.
