Muscat -Muscat city, once a thriving and strategically located port of the Arabian peninsula in ancient times, is the capital of modern Oman. Its medieval appearance with two old Portuguese forts, Jelali and Merani, flanking the rocky cove around which the city is built, makes it a unique and unusually exotic place. Muscat's picturesque old buildings co-exist with modern commercial and residential quarters giving the city an ambiance of its own.

Nizwa - Nizwa is one of the largest cities in Oman and the capital of the interior region. It has a wealth of cultural and ancient landmarks, most prominent is Nizwa fort built over a period of 12 years and located in the city center. The fort is surrounded by ancient traditional souqs (markets) where the locals trade in traditional as well as imported merchandise, from vegetables to jewelry. Nizwa is an oasis in the enclosed by a series of mountains upon which the famous green mountain (al Jabal al Akhdar) lies. The city is also at cross roads that lead to southern Oman as well as the Dhahirah, Sharqiah regions.

Sur - Sur has a nearly ideal location in the northeast province of Sharquia and is a seafaring town, a fishing village and a trading port all in one. The highlight of the town is the dhow builder's yard on the coast just beyond the town. Sur started trading activities with the African coast as early as the 16th century A. D. walk through its labyrinthine streets reveals many fine old houses with caved doors, arabesque windows and other intricate details. Situated about three hours drive from Muscat, along the coast road to Salalah, Sur is an intriguing seafaring town and a trading port. It is a charming old town with winding streets, carved wooden doors and old Arabesque buildings. The nearby village of Tiwi is also worth a visit.

Sohar - The coastal city of Sohar was once an important Islamic port and the largest town in the country. Visitors will be attracted to its large and functional souq with handy tailors, fruit sellers, and fishermen vying for space, and its fort which stands apart with its four-story walls and six towers, an imposing sight overlooking the bay.

Salalah - The largest city in southern Oman, Salalah has a unique charm with its coconut groves and banana plantations growing right to the water's edge. Its beautiful beaches of white sand are a haven for swimmers ad sea lovers. The rugged beauty of its fertile plains, its freshwater springs, its bustling souq and tropical landscape leave a lasting impression on the visitor's mind.

The capital of the southern region is a surprising city blessed with lush vegetation. Sprawled along sandy beaches and set amongst coconut groves and banana plantations, Salalah seems almost tropical as it is one of the only places in the Arabian peninsular that catches the monsoon. The Al-Balid ruins, site of the ancient city of Zafar, are a major tourist attraction. Also worth visiting is Al Hafah Souk, famous for its fabulous perfumeries. The beaches of Salalah are striking and worth exploring.

Musandam- The main city in the fjord-like most northerly province of Musandam, Khasab is a small town of peaceful estuaries and palm trees. A small, well-restored 16th century Portuguese fort dominates its picturesque Cornish. Also, Strait of Hurmuz.

Buraimi - The oasis town of Buraimi is well worth a visit. It lies about 350 km northwest of Muscat on the border with the United Arab Emirates. The town has an old fort and a bustling friendly souq smelling of spices and palm products.
For more information on places in Oman please visit www.omantourism.gov.om