Oman wasn't supposed to be the destination for my next trip. I was traveling in summer and aimed for a cooler climate. But articles kept popping up in travel blogs and newsletters describing the beauty of Oman and its well-deserved reputation for hospitality. Jagged peaks, lush wadis, deserts, ancient forts, and coffee made with saffron, cardamon, and rosewater made me want to go and see for myself. 

I was able to squeeze in a trip at the end of May which I knew would be hot but manageable. And since it was just an hour flight to Dubai, why not add on a short visit? 

Traveling through Oman was even more incredible than I expected. I hiked into wadis, fed wandering camels, admired the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and enjoyed a typical Omani lunch in a private home.  After nine days driving through otherworldly landscapes, I headed to Dubai.

The mountains were replaced by the bright, polished towers of Dubai. Everything seemed to speed up and I felt like I should be in a hurry to get somewhere. So I started moving... Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai Mall.

I rode the Metro to the Gold Souk and then hired an abra to ferry me around the Dubai Creek for an hour, almost losing my hat in the high winds. And I scheduled one long day in Abu Dhabi to visit the Qasr Al Watan Palace, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and other sites.  

Definitely one of my best trips; I hope to return soon and visit the Dhofar region of Oman and more of the Emirates.