Ahlan wa salan! (Welcome!)

The four Muscat-eers* (Hana, Colleen, Jenn and I) are heading to Oman on April 4th to spend a couple weeks exploring a country that is nestled deep in the heartland of the Middle East.

Bordered by the United Arab Emirates (on the Arabian Ocean side), Yemen and Saudi Arabia (on the Red Sea side), Oman is a small country with a rich cultural and geographical diversity. Picture mountain villages clutched against canyon walls, clusters of dates weighing heavy in trees, a ribbon of sand blowing across the dunes, a lone camel padding across the dusty interior... these are just some of the experiences of the senses I am hoping to have!

Here are a few facts of the country that you might be interested to know:

• Population: 3.2 million, based on a 2007 census
• Size: 119, 500 square miles (about the size of the state of Nevada)
  
• Capital city: Muscat (population 620,000)
• Government: Sultanate
• Head of State: Sultan Qaboos bin Sa’id (since 1970)

Miscellaneous: Good roads link nearly every town in the country, every region has modern health care facilities, and all Omani citizens are given free primary and secondary education. Oman has gained an international reputation for being a peaceful, settled nation, loyal to Arab neighbours whilst maintaining close, friendly ties with Western countries, particularly the UK.

How's that for a teaser for now. Stay tuned for more tidbits as I count down the days!
~ Lala

* I love puns, and I couldn't resist that groaner. ; )