| The Sultanate of Oman is a country in Southwest | | | | presents an enigmatic challenge. |
| Asia, on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula. | | | | Oman is an amazing place for exploration and |
| It borders the United Arab Emirates in the | | | | discovery, especially by foot in its spectacular |
| northwest, Saudi Arabia in the west and Yemen in | | | | mountain scenery. The country is the best kept |
| the southwest. The coast is formed by the Arabian | | | | tourism secret of the Gulf region, if not the entire |
| Sea in the south and east, and the Gulf of Oman in | | | | Middle East, having striking scenery, friendly people |
| the northeast. The country also contains Madha, an | | | | and year-round sunshine. |
| enclave enclosed by the United Arab Emirates and | | | | Camel racing is an exciting sport where camels and |
| Musandam, an exclave also separated by Emirati | | | | their owners congregate at racetracks around the |
| territory. | | | | country. Racing camels are bred for the track and |
| There are plenty of activities to do here. | | | | are highly prized possessions. |
| Oman has a varied coastline over 1600 km long. | | | | Bull fighting is very popular in Oman but it is a far cry |
| There is a wealth of underwater flora, marine life and | | | | from the Spanish variety. In this instance two |
| diving thrills awaiting the underwater explorer. Several | | | | Brahmin bulls of the same size are pitted against each |
| companies specialising in diving services offer a | | | | other. The first one to get knocked down or run |
| complete range of diving courses, diving equipment | | | | away is declared the loser. The fight lasts only for a |
| and activities. | | | | few minutes and the bulls suffer no injury except |
| For serious and casual photographers there are photo | | | | perhaps a wounded pride and a bad headache. Bull |
| opportunities galore stark majestic mountain ranges, | | | | fighting usually takes place on Friday afternoons in |
| serene sandy beaches, and lush green jungles all | | | | the cooler winter months at arenas along the Batinah |
| within a wink of a shutter. Wildlife, rustic villages, | | | | coast, notably in Seeb, Barka, Sawadi, and Sohar |
| majestic forts, colourful natives there is inspiration | | | | Game fishing is now becoming very popular in Oman |
| everywhere. Best months for photography are | | | | as would be anglers try their hand at bagging the big |
| November April in the early morning or late afternoon. | | | | one. Species such as marlin and tuna are highly |
| Use of a UV and polarizing filter is recommended. | | | | sought. The sport is affordable and Omani waters |
| Rugged mountains, rising to 3,000 meters, amongst a | | | | are abundant in the bait fish that attracts larger |
| maze of spurs, deep canyons and towering cliffs. | | | | predators. The coasts off Sur and Masirah are |
| Getting onto the mountain in a four wheel drive is | | | | especially suited for this unique sport. |
| easy. For the rock climber, every mountain face | | | | |