Are you aware of the scenario in which you may live the true-to-life Arabian Nights dream world without being bored out of your mind at places that are too touristy, then Nizwa, Oman is a top choice for your vacation. Ignored by most mainstream tourists, this long-ago town, a port to the Indian Ocean, renders a safe and very welcoming journey through the Middle East. The experiences one can hardly expect beforehand.
In the middle of Nizwa, you can find the wondrous Nizwa Fort, which is the proof of Omani architectural and engineering prowess, which is the equivalent to the greatest European castles. Erected in the year 1668, this wonderful piece of architecture is not only a testament to the culture, but also a real-life museum that the visitors can use to look back in time. The amazing views can be revered from the castle’s tower, you will be left in awe of the commanding beauty
of the city and the nearby mountains. This fortress, which showcases a myriad of defenses, like a murder hole which is an opening where boiling date syrup was poured down onto attackers, reminds the visitors of the ingenuity of the Omani people in a hostile desert land.
However, Nizwa is not just limited to its rich history. The vibrant Nizwa Souk reveals that it is not necessary to relinquish authenticity so that traditional markets can attract buyers in the modern world. Society at large, unlike the over-cleaned markets in tourist hotspots, is still maintaining meaningful economic activities in the Nizwa market. The fact that the livestock farmer's market
is held every Friday is a sight that will intrigue you and leave you with at least one or more photographs. In very rare instances are you able to spare some time to partake in both an amazing goat auction and gazing across the street at a 17th-century castle?
If you are one of those people who are skeptical of the middle east, Nizwa, Oman will be your perfect choice. Usually, the people are generous and friendly, and they are happy to let the visitors discover their lifestyle and culture. English is quite popular, particularly among the young Omanis, which makes communication a lot easier than expected.
The first subject that is very important to most visitors is security. On a global level, Oman is often listed as one of the safest countries, with very low instances of crime. Oman is on the list of destinations travelers often brag about, due to the lack of tourism and one of the best kept secrets in the middle east.
One who loves food will have a chance to taste almost everything in Nizwa. The aroma coming from the spice market and mixed with the colors is such that the senses are overwhelmed. The traders advertise their numerous spices in a friendly welcoming way as you walk by. Omani traditional cuisine is a combination of Arab, Persian, Indian, and East African influences that
deliver a tour of tastes far from the common tourist dishes.
So for the individuals with curiosity and a sense of exploration, Nizwa can be a very good place to start feeling the natural beauty of Oman. The mountains are nearby and there are plenty of activities like walking, rock climbing, and watching traditional villages that seem to have stood still in time.
Nizwa breaks the stereotypes about the Middle East. It is the place where the old lifestyle and the new one interchange so harmoniously where you can taste the exotic without feeling so lost. In a time where over-tourism is rampant, Nizwa is a place that is becoming increasingly rare, a less crowded choice for a more authentic intercultural experience that needs to be shared with
the whole Globe.