MOJO HD

Browse the Episodes

• Somalia
• Kenya
• South Africa
• Botswana
• Sudan - Part 1
• Sudan - Part 2
• Sudan - Part 3
• Afghanistan - Part 2
• Afghanistan - Part 1
• Oman
• Djibouti
• Saudi Arabia
• Syria
• Jordan
• Yemen

Oman

Sitting quietly on the way southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, the sultanate of Oman has long been a highly valued geographic gem, routinely colonized for nearly 500 years by the Portuguese, the Ottomans, and finally, the British. Oman’s location at the crossroads of the Middle East and Africa, along with its European connections has given way to an eclectic and colorful population. True independence came to Oman in the 1970’s when its present ruler Qaboos bin Said Al Said came to power, and today, Oman is, by Middle Eastern standards, one of the most progressive countries in the region. Education, public works and tourism have taken off, and the country’s infrastructure has been strengthened by wise reinvestment of its oil revenues. Women have been voting since 1997, and when universal suffrage was granted in 2003, two women were elected to the sultan’s advisory council. Still, Oman is a very traditional Muslim country where discretion and modesty are revered. It is slowly creeping onto the world’s tourism radar, thanks to its gorgeous wadis, clear seas, and awe-inspiring sand dunes, along with the openness and hospitality of its people. In this episode, Dr. Bob experiences Oman’s charms by taking on the challenges of its terrain via 4x4 vehicle, high-flying “zipline,” and bobbing inner tube.

Currency: Omani Rial (OMR), US $1 equals 0.38577 OMR

Location: Muscat

• Ornate royal palaces, quaint fishing villages and cosmopolitan personality all mesh in the city of Muscat, making it a terrific introduction to Oman. The city is bursting with museums, lush parks, bustling souks, and ornate mosques, and a long calm waterfront welcomes leisurely strollers and hungry diners who show up to enjoy those.

Location: Wadi Shab

• One of Oman’s top draws, this canyoned valley is dotted with turquoise pools, rushing waterfalls, bright fruit groves and terraced plantations. One of the most irresistible pools is in a cave where light pours in from above and the secluded silence is broken by the cave’s incredible echoing acoustics.