Oman
Award-winning cookery writer, chef, recipe developer and presenter Dina Macki joins us on the Grapevine this week with a stellar collection of recommendations.
Born and raised in the UK in an Omani and Zanzibari family, Dina’s love for food is exceeded only by her drive to share the culture and hospitality of Oman and Zanzibar with the world. Choosing food as her medium to break down the barriers surrounding the Middle East and to cast a light on the immense cultural and culinary diversity of the region, Dina tirelessly works to bring the tastes of her heritage to the world.
Now a treasured annual fixture in Muscat, the Royal Opera House Muscat has been hosting Sufi and Inshaad concerts to celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan for several years, bringing together regional and local artists for a spiritual journey through the medium of sound.
Few genres evoke the depth of spiritual connection and emotional resonance quite like Sufi and Inshaad music. These musical forms serve as profound vehicles for spiritual elevation and communal expression.
Our Founder, Laura Cretney, shares the story of Pink Jinn, from a tiny British island to the deserts of Oman.
Wondering what you should read this summer? Look no further than our top picks of books by Middle Eastern and North African authors – a list of unforgettable reads that will keep you captivated whether you’ve got a packed summer of travel planned, or are looking forward to balmy evenings lounging with a book at home. From timeless love stories to unwind with, to compelling short stories that will keep you on the edge of your deck chair, your next perfect read will be on this list!
Set between sprawling white sand beaches, ancient ruins and a freshwater lagoon, the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Ananatara is perfectly placed for the ultimate Salalah getaway. On the shores of the Arabian Sea, Salalah is Oman’s tropical paradise. This beautiful city is famed for its blissful coastline, unending supply of fresh coconuts, and of course the novelty of monsoon rains in the desert – Salalah’s khareef season! Immerse yourself in Arabian hospitality, history, and incredible food in the Land of Frankincense – and stay in the lap of luxury at the Al Baleed Resort for the trip of a lifetime!
For 5000 years, frankincense has been coveted across the globe for its otherworldly fragrance and health and beauty benefits. This extraordinary resin has helped ancient empires to rise, graced churches and temples around the world, and been obsessed over by kings, queens and pharaohs.
nkincense and fragrance products will go to Mind, to support their work providing mental health advice and support, as well as campaigning to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
If you’re looking for a luxurious Middle Eastern escape, look no further. The Alilu Hinu Bay Resort in Mirbat, Oman is the perfect place to relax and restore. From incredible food to indulgent spa treatments, you won’t even need to venture outside of the hotel to have a blissful holiday, but if you’re looking for a touch of adventure, there’s plenty to explore in this stunning corner of the Omani coast.
Travellers from all across Oman, the Gulf and much further afield flock to Salalah during the Khareef season to witness this transformation, but did you know just how stunning this region is during the rest of the year? The unique draw of the monsoon rains doesn’t just bring stunningly verdant vistas – they also bring huge numbers of tourists and higher prices at hotels and attractions. Visiting at other times of the year can ensure a more sedate holiday as well as being kinder to your budget, but never fear, there’s still plenty to do and see in this gorgeous coastal city. Here’s some ideas for a truly unforgettable trip to Salalah at any time of year!