NCL Cruise from Dubai UAE to Singapore
Day 7 Fujairah U.A.E. East Coast Highlights November 23, 2916
The lush, fertile landscapes of the United Arab Emirates are today’s discovery on this tour of the scenic coast. The drive is along the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, a region known for its excellent beaches, the rugged Hajjar Mountain range and lush green expanses. We made a photo stop at the 300-year-old Fujairah Fort and another photo stop at the Oasis in Bithna, whose impressive fort guards the mountain pass.
A visit was made to the Fujairah Museum to see the displays of weapons, traditional costumes and artifacts. Other exhibits provide a glimpse at local lifestyle, past and present. Our visit to Fujairah included the Friday Market, a famous and colorful roadside market featuring souvenirs, clay pots, carpets and artifacts for sale. Even though it’s called The Friday Market it is open seven days a week from morning to night. Our final stop was to the Al Bidiyah Mosque, the oldest mosque in the Emirates – another great photo opportunity.
► Fujairah Port Highlights ► Fujairah Museum ► Fujairah Fort
► Friday Market ► Al Bidiyah Mosque ► Fujairah UAE
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Day 6 Khasab Oman Picturesque Khasab & Surroundings November 22, 2016
Today was to discover Khasab and the rugged beauty of the Musandam Peninsula. Khasab Fort, with its low walls and large central tower was our first stop. This picturesque, 17th-century stronghold was built by the Portuguese, who sought dominion over the maritime trade in the Straits of Hormuz.
After the fort we traveled along the coastal road to Bukha with scenic views of the coast. At the town of Bukha, overlooking the sea and with a backdrop of mountains, was the Bukha Fort, with watchtowers and surrounded on three sides by a dry moat. It is thought the Bukha Fort is older than Khasab Fort, it is better preserved.
► Khasab Port Highlights ► Bukha Fort ► Khasab Coastal Ride
Day 8 Muscat Mystical Muscat November 24, 2016
This was a day to discover the historic and religious sites of Muscat, Oman's political, economic and commercial center. The drive started through the exclusive Omani residential district of Shati Al Qurum. Stopping first to visit the Grand Mosque, the largest and most exclusive mosque in Oman. Next it was the colorful Muttrah Souq, where the scent of exotic Arabian perfumes and spices fills the air. The shops offer Omani daggers, or khanjars, handmade Omani costumes, antiques, silver jewelry and handicrafts.
We continued to Bait Al Zubair, a private museum housing collections of traditional Omani items that include weaponry, jewelry, clothing, household items, books, photographs, paintings, and maps. We finished with a drive along Muscat's scenic coastal road, through the charming fishing village of Sidab and on to Muscat's Old Town and the impressive Al Alam Palace, the official residence of Sultan Qaboos. The palace, adorned with Oriental-styled architecture, is strategically positioned between, two Medieval fortresses overlooking Muscat Bay.
► Muscat Highlights ► Muscat Port ► Grand Mosque A
► Grand Mosque B ► Muttrah Souq ► Bait Al Zubair ► Al Alam Palace