The travels and musings of Matt and Heidi
Out with the Krew many weekends, there is nothing like life on the ocean in Muscat. For three quarters of the year the temperatures in Muscat get to well into the 30’s, often the 40’s and for the summer time the only chance to get outside is to be on the ocean, everywhere else is just... Continue Reading →
Rebeca Nigrinis is a Colombian artist whose paintings are well known by their bold lines and bright colour combinations. Inspired in her Latin American background and the Middle East influence, she has developed a unique style combining the vibrancy emanating from the vivid colours of her Caribbean background, with the exotic beauty of the Middle... Continue Reading →
The consolidation of political power and religious authority in Oman during the 1600's produced new requirements for fortified buildings, including the lodging of the Imam. Fulfilling this purpose, Nizwa Castle (built c1650) became the pulsing heart of the Imamate. Within its walls the Imam entertained important visitors, held public audiences and conducted the daily affairs... Continue Reading →
Photographed at the restored fort in Nizwa the plaque behind it reads: Omani 3-pounder cannon. Early 17th Century, cast bronze. This superb and unique cannon is almost certainly of Omani construction. It was probably cast at Sohar. With its intricate cartouches, it provides a talking point for Arabic scholars. It is mounted on a replica... Continue Reading →
Down the coast, to the east of Muscat, is the resort town of Jebel Sifah. It's a great place for a weekend, especially if you are a golf aficionado or water sports fanatic. The area is being steadily built up with accommodation, restaurants, bars and boutique shops, so you can expect this little gem to... Continue Reading →
Just a slightly restored fort overlooking a boat on the way to Sur 😉
A trip to Melbourne for a job fair in 2016 reminded us that posh western hotels, with English speaking staff, can be just as frustrating as any foreign hostel or lumpy mattress disaster. Ok, so the room wasn't ready. No problem, we've all had this experience before I'm sure. But it was after we finally... Continue Reading →
Hamid tells me the recipe for this bread made daily over an open fire is flour, salt and water. Roll it out thin, put it onto the fire for 30 seconds or so each side, take it off and pat it to expel the air. Easy right? I swear the man had silicone hands!
Early mornings in the desert show you how lively the nights must have been. Small shrubs glistened with dew drops and the footprints of various animals lined the sandy floor like a dance studio for beginners. Before the heat of the day the desert offers up a serene landscape filled with birdsong, camel grunts and... Continue Reading →
Hamid is a Bedouin. His family have lived in the desert for generations. He is one of three sons and two daughters. His family live in the local village, breed camels and run a desert camp where people can experience some of what life is like. Hamid welcomed us to Nomadic Desert Camp and after we... Continue Reading →
Wish You Were Here 