In this blog entry I jump back to the events of Friday December 30 2011. Our first full day in Muscat and a chance to see some sights and get some provisions for our desert foray.
Muscat is on the coast and the Sultan of Oman maintains a number of vessels. His is the large white one in the background
Meanwhile we zoom in to see a traditional fishing vessel. The Sultan has kindly provided boats and equipment subsidies but it is rumoured that this has lead to overfishing in some areas.
The temperature at noon is about 29 degrees Centigrade. Actually low in comparison to the summer temp which can reach 50 degrees. Marcus with his sun allergy is okay with the temperature but not the sunshine.
Walking back on the quayside we observe an impromptu game of Cricket. Oman has a gross population of 2.7 million and of that 600,000 are foreigners. This is ex-pats and then several hundred thousand Indian workers employed mostly in construction. The Indians have brought cricket with them :-)
Oman has reasonable oil reserves and this provides for the Sultan's wealth which is generously distributed by the Sultan. Low oil prices do translate to an abundance of large engined cars, classic Mustang 5.0 shown above.
Arrival at Al Alam Palace of the Sultan. The last section is behind a large locked gate
This Gate
The adjoining square is large enough for Marcus to dance in
Click to enlarge :-)
Women in cloth bags are spotted on the horizon. A topic I shall return to.
Arrival at the Al Bustan Palace
What wine should we choose darling?
The view from our lunchtime terrace is livable
Arrival at the Mutrah market
A great place to buy that next pair of sandals
Marcus manages to find a Swiss Shop
Lots of jewellery for sale
I am quite interested in purchasing a Burqa. I convince Agata and Annemarie to enter a shop as cover. The Burqa would be for me :-) I could wear it to show solidarity and also combat that sunshine against my allergic skin. After consultation we think my wearing it might be dangerous to my health so the plan is canned ... for now.
