Nizwa and Oman's Historical Gems Tour

It is one of the oldest markets in the country and you will find fruit, meat, sweets, pottery, souvenirs and antiques... There is a lot to discover as you stroll through in the middle of the locals. Below is my guide to help you plan your visit.

d was built on top of the ruins of a 9th-century castle. The massive structure has been nicely restored, with many rooms set up to look as they did when the fort was in use; you'll see interesting historic tidbits offered in various displays in many rooms. Be sure to check out the prisoner room and read about the wartime use for the local dates, which were turned into a deadly weapon in the form of a cauldron of boiling date syrup. The views from the central tower are spectacular and worth the climb.

Three ladies accompany guests around their traditional house in the aged and crumbling village of Al Hamra. They demonstrate the culinary arts of juniper-oil production, Omani bread-making and coffee-bean grinding, and there's an opportunity for a photo shoot in traditional regional costume. Sitting cross-legged in the majlis (reception room), surrounded by photos of local sheikhs, sampling coffee and dates, and exchanging sign language with the ladies is an experience not to be missed.