Below you'll find a list of all posts that have been tagged as “Middle East”
Flying into Amman, Jordan the first emotion was ‘at last’. Evocative images of the famed Treasury at Petra having stoked my imagination for many years, admittedly Indiana Jones had also played his part. Hopefully this would be a slightly less eventful visit, only slightly less though. At Peace in Jordan Inspiration to travel is at our fingertips, magazines, television, films, …
The emirate of Dubai is a relatively new state, a city which sprung directly from the surrounding desert in little more than a single generation. It has become synonymous with ‘over the top’ luxury. Making most of its dollars from tourism, the economy is built on providing visitors with the biggest, the best, the highest and the most luxurious. The …
Browsing souqs (souks) whether in Morocco, Egypt or in Oman is always a fascinating experience. They are entirely different from western markets, hives of activity where haggling is usually not only encouraged but expected. Often bustling, especially in popular tourist destinations where visiting a souq is one of the one of the highlights of the trip. Alien experiences which allow …
Oman is one of my favourite destinations, it is such an authentic country with a friendly people, that always seem to make visitors feel welcome. There is plenty of interest in the main city, Muscat. The cool souks offer a relaxed shopping experience without the hassle of other similar city markets. The Grand Mosque is a beautiful building which is …
The Muscat Festival of Oman Culture provides some insight into the nomadic lives of the original tribes which roamed freely through the country. Pitching tents in the drifting sands of the deserts, keeping camels, goats and horses, practicing skills and cooking in the traditional manner. My favourite displays however were the ones which showed children at play, although they were …
Visiting the Muscat Festival a celebration of the culture of Oman is an interesting if contrived insight into the country and its people. There are numerous displays of traditional crafts, cuisine and products, many of the goods are available to purchase. It is a celebration of the original nomadic lives led by the people of the region. Most are wearing colourful …
I recently posted another photo of three performers at the Muscat Festival this was one of them but displaying an entirely different image. I love both images but the portrayal of intensity in his stare with this one is especially captivating. It is hard to know what is on his mind, but he is not camera shy. Both images convery …
I’m spoiling you today with a touch of luxury from The Chedi in Muscat, Oman. Those unaware of this hotel, it is in the high end of the five star hotel market. The long pool displayed below is a 103 metre stretch of liquid relaxation, perfect for getting a little exercise or just chilling. Oman is comfortably warm even in …
This is the gateway to Wadi Shab in Oman. Arriving by car at the village of Tiwi this is viewed just before turning to see the stunning and impressive entrance to one of Oman’s finest attractions. Loacted a short drive from the coastal town of Sur and a few hours from Muscat it is worth taking a drive to visit. …
This is a traditional shoe maker and repairer in the small fishing village of Seeb near Muscat, Oman. He does not appear to actually have a stall just a small corner of the souk, where he sets up his very basic equipment. This seems to consist of a small hammer, glues, tacks and a crude anvil. Using mixed off cuts …