(8) (Arabia) Oman


Oman

From Ras-el-Hadd to the extreme northern limits of Arabia at the head of the Persian Gulf, the provinces of Oman and Hasa complete the sea-coast. Oman is a mountainous district, its principal rage, that of Jebel Akhdar, or the "Green Mountain," so called from the abundant vegetation that covers its sides, reaches an ascertained height of 6000 feet; several other minor chains run parallel with it and with the coast; the plains beneath them are well watered and fertile, though, like every other part of Arabia, destitute of running rivers or streams, the want of which is here atoned by copious wells and springs, running over into large pools, and supplying an extensive system of irrigation. The rocks are chiefly granite on their upper, limestone on their lower level; but here, too, as on the Red Sea coast, indications of volcanic action, though at a comparatively remote period, are frequently to be observed; hot springs, too, such as those known by the title of Imam Alee, near. Mascat, are not uncommon. The only good harbour on this part of the coast is that of Mascat, with which the immediately contiguous part of Matrah may be reckoned. By the sea-shore the climate is intensely hot, rivaling in this respect that of Aden, and far from wholesome; among the mountains inland the air is cool and pure.





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"The best (and one of the only) guides to a very pleasant and seldom-mentioned country, Ochs has done a wonderful job of giving us a very interesting introduction to the culture, language, history, religion, cuisine, customs, geology and attractions of the safest and most attractive of the Arabian countries. Included is a wealth of information that every traveller will need to know before embarking on their trip."
-- Gsiberry (Amazon reviewer)

"The numerous hikes, drives and trips that are outlined are excellent. However, the reason to buy this book is not for Ochs' encyclopedic knowledge of the country, its people and its history, but for the throwaway lines and personal experiences that are scattered throughout the text. A good sprinkling of spice in a dish that has been served many times."
-- Jill Stockbridge, Editor, Adventure Oman

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