Salalah
Salalah
The fertile Salalah plain around the modern metropolis in southern Oman is a popular travel destination for many Omanis from the north of the country, but also for Europeans and other travelers from around the world. The region around the capital of the Dhofar province provides its very own climatic conditions. Every year during the monsoon season from mid-June to September, the already fertile soil of the region is heavily watered by the monsoon rains. However, the rain showers here fall differently than in other regions of the world that are partially plagued by monsoon winds. For here, the monsoon comes neither with torrential rains nor with strong winds – no, here it falls in this phase almost all day long as fine drizzle. If it doesn't rain once, a dense fog covers the outskirts of the city. This allows the water to penetrate more easily into the soil, and the banana plantations around the city can thrive wonderfully.
The city of Salalah – a modern metropolis in historical garb
Primarily, the city, which resembles a large green oasis, is a modern metropolis. In the city center, mainly concrete buildings are found, which house government authorities and other important institutions of the city. Limestone houses, as known from Arab history and which once characterized the skyline of Salalah, can now only be found in the historical district of Al-Hafah. Al-Hafah is just the right place for all lovers of Arab history and the pleasant atmosphere of narrow Arab streets. With the old frankincense market, the old sultan's palace, and various small government buildings, Al-Hafah offers visitors a lot to enjoy. The Archaeological Park, which was built on the grounds of the historical settlement of Al-Baleed and includes several excavation sites as well as a very attractive museum, is definitely worth a visit. By the way: Anyone who wants to visit the grave of a Muslim prophet has the opportunity in Salalah. The grave of the prophet Nabi Amran is also open to non-Muslims. However, women must wear a headscarf, and shoes must be removed before entering the site.
Salalah is vacation for all senses
Anyone who is in Salalah should not miss out on taking at least one extensive walk through the tropical plantations of the city. Papaya and coconut palm trees line the paths, along with banana trees. These provide welcome shade for the vegetables and other plants on the ground. Here, you can find horse-radish trees, limes, sugar cane, and Indian almonds. At many small stands set up along the larger roads in the garden areas, one can linger and enjoy some small delicacies from the region.
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