Middle-aged flash packers

An early start to see the grand mosque. I ignored a few grumbles from him indoors about getting up early and we were at the mosque by 9. A wise move because when we left at 10.30 it was very, very busy.

I dutifully wore my long sleeved shirt, maxi skirt and scarf. We stored our shoes and it was a delight to walk on the cool polished marble slabs. Everywhere was so clean and pristine. 

We wandered into the mosque and were underwhelmed. Very plain and unadorned. Nothing special at all. That transpired to be the women’s mosque. Apparently they get the crap one because they can pray at home and don’t need a nice one. The men’s mosque – wow. Beautiful and no expense spared. Lavish chandeliers and hand painted ceramics. Fabulous. They have this because they are not allowed to pray at home. Well that’s fine then.

There was some reverse radicalisation going on, with people charming us with coffee and dates, and university scholars discussing with us the advantages of Islam and gently countering our concerns.  I appreciated their point of view and grace when faced with many people’s ignorance about something very important to them.

Pool time and a wander around Qurum (beach area in Muscat) completed the day.

One more day in Muscat then it’s off to Jebel Shams where Oman’s answer to the Grand Canyon resides.