How to plan a perfect trip to Salalah
A world away from Muscat, Salalah offers its own unique blend to visitors. The city puts on its best front of lush green during the khareef (monsoon) season. And there are architectural, natural as well as cultural wonders to discover in the city. In this guide, we’ll take you through the ins and outs of planning a perfect trip to Salalah.
How to prepare for a visit to Salalah
Salalah is generally a hot, desert-like place. But if you are visiting during Khareef season you can expect refreshing weather. Pack light but long clothing that covers most of your body. Dressing modestly will allow you to blend in better with the locals and move freely. Don’t forget your sunglasses, bug spray and sunscreen. And don’t forget to pack rain shoes, a hat and a light jacket. If you are visiting during the Khareef season, be sure to book your hotel ahead of time. For a luxurious stay book a hotel with an Oman Spa. A number of hotels such as the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara offer spa facilities and easy access to attractions.
What are the best beaches in Salalah
The Taqah beach is scattered with white sand and fringed with clear blue waters. It is the ideal spot for catching spectacular sunsets. Located about 4 and a half kilometres away from Salalah’s Public Park, Al Hafa beach is yet another beautiful beach in Salalah. And, then there is the Dahariz beach right in the middle of the city. It is a coconut fringed beach, ideal for a picnic or an evening stroll.
What are the historical and architectural sights in Salalah
The Taqa Castle is a historical building and a fine example of Omani architecture. About 8.8km away from the castle lies the Old City of Samharam, which was once a big part of the age-old frankincense trade route. Once you are in the city, you’ll catch glimpses of the ancient world. The port in Samharam once shipped Omani frankincense across the globe to mostly royal and aristocratic buyers. There is an archaeological gallery nearby, displaying the way of life in Omani as it evolved and grew through the times.
The Sultan Qaboos Mosque is the largest one in Oman, and it is adorned with exquisite decorations including elegant carpets, crystal chandeliers and more. The Al-Nahdah Tower located on Ar Rubat Street is yet another architectural wonder that symbolizes the city of Salalah.
Why do you need to visit fruit plantations in Salalah
With the subtropical climate and the blessings of the khareef season, Salalah is a prime fruit-growing location in Oman. At these fruit plantations, you will see trees bejewelled with papayas and bananas as well as tall coconut trees bearing fruit. If you wish to bite into some luscious tropical fruit, head towards Corniche to find fruit stands.
What to eat in Salalah
Mediterranean fare is popular and comes in its authentic form in Salalah. You can breakfast on delectable Mediterranean dishes while watching the golden rays of the sun peeking over sandy beaches. Lunches and dinners can take you into the delicious world of Lebanese or traditional Omani food. And don’t forget to feast on sweets and Omani hot drinks at cafés.
Where to shop local in Salalah
Similar to many cities in Oman, there are plenty of malls and shopping centres in Salalah. You can get some retail therapy in the malls, well-stocked with luxury brands and more. But the best place in any city to truly feel the local vibe would be arguably the place where the locals shop. And, in Salalah, this place is the Al Husn Souq. You will walk into tiled paths with lots of different stalls selling goods in many-hued arrays. You can buy some ethnic wear or modern clothes and purchase some dainty Frankincense jewellery. And the spice stalls will beckon you with wafts of wholesome fragrance, gifting you with fond memories to treasure for life.
