Al Rabi Hiking Trail is considered to be one of the best lesser known spots for camping and hiking. Located in Khorfakkan in the United Arab Emirates, roughly one and a half hours away from Dubai. The Al Rabi hiking trail is perfect for both beginners as well as expert hikers/campers. The location provides a breathtaking view of Khor Fakkan city on one side and the majestic Gulf of Oman on the other. A panoramic view that is bound to win everyone’s heart. What makes it unique is that though this place is well-marked yet it hasn’t lost its natural charm. The route is easily accessible and famous amongst everyone as a quick weekend getaway. It has been my go-to place ever since I visited it a couple of years ago, so in this post let’s learn everything you need to know about it and why you should visit it!
Al Rabi Hiking Trail
Al Rabi- About
The Al Rabi Hiking Trail begins at the Al Rabi Tower, one of the first of a series of watchtowers built in the 1915 A.D. in the Khorfakkan city to look out for any trespassers as part of a defense network for Khorfakkan. Hikers can follow a well-marked trail that zigzags up to a 395m summit with scenic views. Khorfakkan city holds hundreds of years of history as a prosperous port and was once attacked by the Portuguese. This is one of the UAE’s most popular spots for hiking and camping because it is doable by the entire family.
Al Rabi Hiking Trail in Khorfakkan
Best time to visit
A comfortable and risk-free trail for beginners and casual hikers. The best (and the most popular) time to do the hike is before sunrise. If you start early enough, you could get the best view at the top in time for sunrise.
Al Rabi Hiking Trail- A safe beginners’ hiking trail that can be comfortably done within a few hours.
Checklist
Comfortable shoes
Plenty of water and snacks
Cap, sunglasses, scarfs, etc.
Sunscreen
Mat
Garbage bags
Some Tips n Tricks
Arrive early to find a parking spot near the Al Rabi tower but if you don’t find a spot, then you’ll have to go back to the starting point.
If you plan to hike with children, drop them off near the tower, before looking for parking.
There is fresh fruit, vegetable, and meat market on the main road, you can find a washroom there.
Go either early morning or late afternoon on a weekday to avoid the rush.
The place has a beautiful spot nearby (hardly a 5-10 min drive from Al Rabi Tower) for watching the sunrise… Just in case!!
Save the offline Google Map for the place as the network coverage over there can sometimes be unreliable.
If you are planning for a full-day trip then do visit the nearby places like Shark Island, Heart Beach, Khorfakkan beach, etc.
The Khorfakkan beach has a lot of food trucks, etc.
On the way up, there’s a message from the Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Sultan Al Qassimi which reads: ‘God cherished nature. We are wary of man’s tampering with nature. If you love Sultan, appreciate what he has done for nature’. So please, leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but pictures (and great memories)! Hope you enjoyed reading it, do check out the other travel-related posts.
Hair masks don’t cost a fortune but they have wonderful (short as well as long term) effects on your hair and scalp It doesn’t matter how promising a store-bought hair mask is, it cannot beat the hair masks that our moms and our grand-moms told us about (but we have been too lazy to try!)! I have summed up my 5 all-time favorite DIY hair masks. Try one of these tonight, and I promise your hair will thank you for it!
If I am not out and If I am not procrastinating then there’s a pretty decent chance you’d find me at home, preparing DIY hair masks or face masks for my friends (Hello sustainable living and zero-waste lifestyle!). If it’s a food item, you can guarantee I’ve smeared it on my face/body/hair—which means I’m also totally aware of what ingredients work and what ingredients I dare not touch! Trust me when I say there are many, many horrible recipes out there on the internet (We have all seen influencers dancing and swearing by Baking Soda for skincare. *grunts*) that are crap and I wouldn’t even bother to test them out. So, to save you from a probable hair disaster, save this blog post and share it with someone to show that you care for them **cough it would be a great conversation starter cough**
Want to smoothen that dry and frizzy hair? Then prepare this hair mask that will make your hair soft and lustrous. This hair mask works better for every hair, mainly beneficial for dry and frizzy hair.
You need:
Very Ripe Banana
Yogurt – 4-5 teaspoon
Honey – 2 teaspoon
Olive or Almond Oil- 1 teaspoon
Instructions:
Ensure that the banana is very ripe (next time, don’t throw bananas when they turn black!) Mash it in a blender till it becomes thick paste-like.
Mix Yogurt, Honey, and your choice of Oil to this paste.
Apply this hair mask to moist hair from top to bottom.
Tie your hair up and you may cover it using a shower cap.
Leave it on for 30 minutes.
Then, wash as usual.
Hair Mask for Oily Hair
If you have oily hair that gets greasy after 1-2 days, this mask is for you.
You need:
Besan
Methi seeds
Coconut milk
Instructions:
Soak Methi seeds overnight, next day grind them.
Mix it with Besan and Coconut.
Apply it to the scalp and massage.
Let it sit for 30 minutes then wash as usual.
Multitasking Mask Hero!
As the name suggests, this hair mask is a multitasking mask then will make your hair shiny, smooth, remove dandruff and this also helps in controlling hair fall. Don’t be overwhelmed by the list of ingredients, this hair mask works like a wonder and you wouldn’t regret the efforts you’ll put into preparing it!
You need:
Onion Juice
Honey
Yogurt
Curry Leaves
Cinnamon
Castor Oil
Instructions:
Mix Onion juice, Honey, Castor Oil, and Yoghurt.
Grind and make a paste of curry leaves.
Mix everything, add a pinch of cinnamon
Apply to the scalp, then from roots to end.
Wash as usual
Hair mask to Boost Hair Growth
If you are experiencing unusual hair fall, then this is what you should go for. Remember, a good diet, proper sleep, and exercise play huge importance, and then comes what you do externally with your hair.
You need:
Aloe Vera Gel (natural is preferred else go for good quality if store-bought aloe gel)
Castor Oil
Indian Gooseberry (fresh or powder)
Brahmi powder
Black seed
Methi or Fenugreek seeds
Instructions:
Soak overnight black seeds and fenugreek seeds.
Grind and make a paste of it.
Mix the liquid ingredients.
Apply to the scalp and then from the roots to the ends.
Leave it for 40 minutes and then wash as usual
Hair Mask for hair fall
One more mask for hair fall, this one doesn’t need a lot of ingredients like the previous one.
A. Ideally, a hair mask should be applied once a week. However, if your hair is very dry and greasy, you can start using it more than once but pay attention to how your hair behaves after using a hair mask. Choosing the right ingredients for your hair type is everything.
Q. How long should I keep hair masks for?
A. Preferably, keep hair masks till they get absorbed (30+ minutes). However, if you feel your hair is very dry and unhealthy, you can use it for 40+ minutes. On the other hand, if your hair is in good condition, you can use it for 10-15 minutes as well.
Q. How do I select the hair masks?
A. Select a Hair mask according to your hair type. You should identify what your hair needs the most and choose a mask according to it.
If you are someone who enjoys home remedies and DIY masks then don’t miss these posts. Hope you enjoyed reading it and do let me know if you are looking for something specific.
Mughaibar fort in Hatta, a secret farmhouse that no one tells you about! It is a secret fort cum farmhouse that is nestled in the Hajar mountains amidst lush greenery that will soothe your senses and help you unwind. In this post read everything you need to know about this secret farmhouse in Hatta that has been beautifully renovated and has now opened its doors for the public.
Mughaibar fort Hatta
About 2 hrs drive from Dubai International Airport Hatta is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a quick escape from the hustle-bustle of city life.
Mughaibar Fort Hatta-
Mughaibar fort in Hatta is a beautiful farmhouse that’s surrounded by rich gardens overlooking the mountains. Recent renovations mean this fort is an ideal union of royal fort vibes blended with a modern twist. There is a private pool, kitchen, dining area, barbecue pits, a small animal farm, making it the perfect choice for anyone planning an escapade or even a big family get-together. Keeping in mind that the property is pretty huge, ‘the more, the merrier.’ is the mantra for this place!
It’s also a great pick for families with children, there’s a kid’s pool, there are animals that you can pet and there’s also plenty of place for kids to just run around! It is good for small as well as big groups, each bedroom comes with a separate washroom, there is also a kitchen with basic amenities.
The place is impeccably clean and well maintained, few areas are still under maintenance. If you are visiting with kids, please ensure that you do not let them unsupervised.
A bit about Hatta
Hatta is a town in the United Arab Emirates that comes under the emirates of Dubai. It is located in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains. It is separated from the main part of the emirate by territory belonging to Sharjah and Oman. Hatta is best known as a heritage village. Less than a two-hour drive from Dubai, it’s the favourite pick for a weekend escape and close enough for a mini-daycation. In winter, Hatta is the go-to spot for hiking, kayaking, biking and other such adventure activities, while in summer it’s worth a visit for its cooler temperature.
Far away from the hustle-bustle of city life
How far is it?
It is roughly 2 hrs drive from Dubai, you might want to keep some water, food, etc for your drive as there are a limited number of shops, etc. on the way. The drive is beautiful and Mughaibar fort is easily reachable even by a sedan.
Things to keep in mind
Do not miss the terrace from Mughaibar Fort Hatta, it is an enchanting sight!
ThoDo not miss the terrace from Mughaibar Fort Hatta, it is an enchanting sight!
Though the place has a couple of grocery stores they have limited options available, so try to carry everything that you might need during your stay.
Mughaibar Fort provides almost all the basic amenities (toiletries, towels, cooking utensils, barbecue items but remember to carry extra coal, wood, food items, etc.)
The place can get a bit cold at night so prepare accordingly.
Carry water, snacks, etc as the nearest grocery store is around 10 min drive from the farm.
The place is exquisite, do not litter, do not damage the property, try to leave it better than you found it.
The service staff is there at the property, it would be nice to tip them if you can.
Be mindful of your surrounding, do not play loud music after 10 pm..
A taste of Royalty!
My experience
The place looks straight out of some fantasy land! Great attention has been paid to the details and great care has been taken to maintain the place. The fort will give you a taste of living like royalty and it is insanely peaceful. As not many people know about it yet, Mughaibar Fort Hatta should be on your list if you have a thing for hidden gems and lesser-known places. The place has an excellent team that lives right next to the property and is always ready to assist you. From serving fresh dates from the farm to getting extra water bottles, from helping us to find nearby restaurants to tell us about the story of the fort, the staff ensured that we had a memorable stay. The sunrise from the terrace is surreal and shouldn’t be missed!
How to book?
You can book or enquire by sending them a direct message on their Instagram page.
Hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it, do not miss more travel related hidden gems here, also let’s stay in touch and connect on Instagram, Twitter, Youtube and TikTok.
The New Age and its ever-evolving panorama of alternative wellness can sometimes be overwhelming! From Reiki to Plant medicine, from Holistic healing to Ayurveda, with a plethora of available options, information overload (thanks to the internet!) and the ever-growing interest for improving the overall immunity (thanks to Covid-19!), health and wellness have become trickier and a never-ending topic! Read on to know about my first Hijama experience!
I love to try new things with a lot of curiosity, a pinch of a healthy dose of sarcasm! I love to document my experiences with nothing but good intentions, hoping it might help someone. It is safe to say, ‘I try things so you know what to and what not to!’
While writing this post, it has been a little more than 24hrs since I had my first Hijama or Wet cupping experience in Dubai. To familiarise yourself with Hijama or Wet cupping, don’t forget to read my previous blog post on Hijama. You can learn all about its benefits, procedure, etc. in that post.
My Hijama Experience
Before the Hijama session:
I read articles to familiarise myself with the Hijama process. I also read people’s experiences etc, to mentally prepare myself. Bearing in mind, I am scared of needles as well as blood, convincing myself for Hijama wasn’t a cakewalk! I was so sure I was going to chicken out at the last minute! Anyway, I took a nice long shower (as you can’t taker a shower after the Hijama session for 24hrs). I was suggested to have a proper meal and drink plenty of fluids before going for the session.
Take a nice shower.
Have a proper meal, drink plenty of fluids.
Prepare yourself mentally.
Read to know what to expect!
Be clear of your expectations.
At the clinic:
First, my vitals were checked and then I was requested to fill out a form and mention all the details. By this time, I was on the verge of running away yet I tried to stay calm! I then met my Hijama expert and her assistant. I discussed with both of them and cleared all my doubts. I also asked her about the Dos and Dont’s etc. Talking to her helped a lot and calmed me down! I tried to remain focused and think about all the positive effects it will have on my body and overall immunity!
Talk to your Hijama or Cupping expert.
Clear your doubts.
Don’t hide anything from the doctor.
Tell the doctor if you suffer from any ailments so they can decide what is best for you.
During the session:
My Hijama session lasted for less than 15 minutes, from the moment I was asked to lie down to the moment I thanked my doctor! I was suggested to go for 11 cups and was asked to come back after six months or so. The number of cups and the next session varies from person to person and will be communicated to you after the session.
Keep calm and breathe normally.
Divert your mind to something nice (Do lots of Dua)
Talk to the doctor if you want the pressure to be reduced.
Tell the doctor if you have any discomforts, etc.
After the session:
I almost cried (with joy!) of course after my Hijama experience! I drank some water and ate few dates. I was asked to sit and inform them in case I felt any abnormality. I was asked not to swim, or work-out or do any rigorous physical activity for the next 24 hrs and avoid eating unhealthy.
For next 24 hours-
Avoid taking a shower.
Do not apply anything on the Hijama points unless prescribed by the doctor.
No Caffeine, alcohol, sugary foods and drinks.
Stay hydrated.
Do not go for a massage.
Do not work out or swim.
No weight lifting.
Do not eat red meat or any dairy products.
Overall experience:
I wasn’t expecting the Hijama session to be that smooth and that painless! The pictures of people bleeding had left me with sleepless nights. To my surprise, it wasn’t painful at all! That night, I slept like a baby. I didn’t have any major pain or discomfort etc. I had bruises (completely normal and they go away in less than a week)) and slight discomfort due to the bandages (that I removed soon after!) I had slight pain in my lower back point but it also faded after resting a bit. I did feel a little itchy and slight discomfort in lying on my back.
The charges were 150 aed per session and the doctor recommended 11 cups for my Hijama.
Feel free to ask me if you have any questions regarding my Hijama experience!
If you ever see me or someone donning marks that look like a round, blue bruise, don’t ask them what’s wrong just yet! Read my personal experience here! It’s not a sign of abuse or injury, but the telltale marks are about a new fad that has caught the fancy of the West and may well be the next big thing soon! It’s called ‘Cupping Therapy’ in Arabic ‘Hijama’. Jennifer Aniston showed off her cupping marks in a strapless top at the premiere of a film and she’s not the only one to try it out! Victoria Beckham and now Denise Richards have all displayed cupped backs too.
From Olympic winning Michael Phelps to celebs like Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston, hailing the benefits of cupping therapy, it is the new go-to-therapy! It is said to make one look ageless and do away with aches, pains, strengthen the immune system and detoxify the body. So, what’s making everyone go back to this ancient medicine technique?
According to the experts, cupping therapy or Hijama can stimulate blood flow around the lymph nodes and stretch out sore muscles and tissues, helping one deal with problems like chronic muscle pain, insomnia, bad blood circulation and also give your skin a good glow! The process only takes a few minutes but promises you both short term and long term benefits.
Cupping therapy can also help treat conditions like fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety, arthritis, insomnia, and blood disorders like anaemia, etc. It is also said to balance out breathing and fertility issues in both men and women. While there is no scientific backing, they work based on detoxification and purifying blood.
Hijama- The new fad that has caught the fancy of the World
Hijama and its benefits
The list of benefits is endless, some of the benefits of Hijama are as follows:
Enhances general health and wellbeing of the body.
Helps in treating insomnia.
Relief from Migraines.
Improves Blood Circulation.
Relieves Chronic Pain (Headaches, Back pain, Arthritis, Period pain, Injuries, etc.)
Improves physical and mental health conditions (Depression, Anxiety, Emotional problems, etc.)
Strengthens the immune system.
Cupping can clear colon blockages and aid digestion.
Rejenuvates the body.
Helps with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in females
Helps in regulating hormones.
Improves the body’s self-healing process.
Detoxifies the Body and purifies the Blood.
Improves the skin (Anti-ageing, acne, etc.)
Soothes Digestive Disorders.
Asthma.
Fertility issues.
Weight loss and much more!
What is Hijama or Wet Cupping?
Wet cupping is also known as Hijama (Arabic: حجامة lit. “sucking”) or medicinal bleeding, where blood is drawn by local suction from small skin incisions. The first reported usages are found in the Islamic Hadith, sayings attributed to or describing the actions of the Islamic prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Hadith from Muhammad al-Bukhari, Muslim ibn al-Hajjaj Nishapuri and Ahmad ibn Hanbal support its recommendation and use by Islamic Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). As a result, wet cupping has remained a popular remedy practised in many parts of the Muslim world.
The procedure of Hijama or Wet Cupping-
Hijama is the non-invasive method that involves the application of cups (glass or plastic) on specific body points which corresponds to specific illnesses. The body part is cleaned and then cups are applied. These cups create negative pressure. Due to the vacuum and the negative pressure inside the cup, the blood accumulates at that point. After the pooling of blood, the cupping experts remove the cups and make small incisions over the skin. Cups are applied again to the same points. The blood starts to ooze out due to the vacuum inside the cups. After the blood seeps out the cups are removed, and the expert cleans the area and puts bandages over the points.
The main mechanism by which Cupping or Hijama works in treating illnesses is that the blood which comes out contains toxins. As cupping removes toxin containing blood from the circulation, it gives place to fresh and healthy blood to circulate. The blood which is pulled out takes with it all the disease-causing toxins.
Is it Painful? and is it Safe?
When done by an expert, cupping, be it dry or wet, is not painful at all. Slight discomfort is normal but it is not as painful as the images make it appear!
Hijama from the Islamic point of view-
Numerous narrations are present in Hadith regarding Hijama as an effective approach to treat illnesses:
Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that Prophet Muhamad (PBUH) said “healing is to be found in three things: drinking honey, the knife of the cupper and cauterization of fire” (reported by Al-Bukhari, 10/136)
Anas Ibn Maalik (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “I did not pass by any group on the night when I was taken on a night journey (Isra), but they said to me, “O Muhammad, tell your Ummah to do cupping” (reported by Ibn Maajah).
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said: “if there was something excellent to be used as a remedy then it is cupping (Hijama).” (Sunan Abu Dawud, Sunan Ibn Majah).
There are many other Hadiths related to Hijama, but the above mentioned are enough to get an idea about its importance in Islam.
Some of the celebrities that are said to be fans of cupping-
Gwyneth Paltrow
The Iron Man actress sported cupping marks on her body back in 2004 and brought the treatment into the limelight.
Jennifer Aniston
The Friends star was spotted with multiple cupping marks on her back in 2013; Aniston supposedly underwent the treatment to boost her fertility.
Freida Pinto
The Slumdog Millionaire actress turned heads at the LAX airport in 2014 despite her low-key ensemble.
Lady Gaga
The popular singer has also given cupping a shot in the past; photographer Terry Richardson shared an image of cupping marks dotting her body in a bathtub.
Justin Bieber
As part of his spiritual (and physical) makeover, Bieber is said to have undergone an intensive cupping session to flush out toxins from his body and seek relief from physical stress caused by lifting weights.
Victoria Beckham
Another early adopter of the technique, Beckham is said to have taken up cupping on Paltrow’s advice.
Kim Kardashian
What else would Mrs West use cupping therapy for other than anti-ageing? Kim uses facial cupping to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Final words
When done under the supervision of an expert, Hijama is said to have numerous benefits. From stimulating the blood flow around the lymph nodes to stretching out sore muscles and tissues. The process only takes a few minutes but promises you both short term and long term benefits. Would you be giving it a try? Do not miss reading my personal experience of Hijama here.
Dubai is the United Arab Emirates’ holiday hot spot. The city of gold and high-rises and shopping malls has transformed itself into one of the best tourist spots in the world. Whether your idea of fun is jumping out of a plane or watching the city’s charismatic fountains gush 500 feet in the air, almost anything is possible in this city. I love to travel and experience new things, it has been more than 5 years since I’ve moved to this city and not even a single week has passed when I told myself there is nothing to do in here! There is so much to do and so many things to see that it is impossible to cover everything but there are a few things/places that you shouldn’t miss when you are here. Read on to know about the best things to do in this city.
Best Things to do in Dubai
There are so many marvelous things to do and places to visit in Dubai – from indoor theme parks to amazing restaurants, from desert escapes to pristine beaches that sometimes it can get a bit overwhelming while trying to decide what to do. To make sure you have a handy list whenever someone asks you about the most enjoyable things to do in Dubai in 2021, I have made a ready-to-use list for you!
Best Things to do in Dubai
Best Things to do in Dubai:
Visit Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the Aquarium
Go for Desert Safari
Visit Burj Al Arab and Wild Wadi waterpark
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Go for Sky diving
Explore Palm Jumeirah, Aquaventure waterpark and Lost Chambers
Helicopter ride
Sightseeing tour (Hop on and Hop-off Bus tour)
Visit La Mer and Laguna waterpark
Queen Elizabeth 2
Jumeirah Mosque
Visit JBR
Dubai Marina
Dhow Cruise
Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates
Gold Souk
Heritage Village (Fahidi)
Al Seef
Take Abra Ride
Spice Souk
Dubai Frame
Miracle Garden
Butterfly Graden
Kidzania
Glow Garden
Dolphinarium
Quranic Park
Museum in Al Fahidi
City Walk and Green Planet
Legoland
Autodrome
IMG world of adventure
Bollywood Motiongate
Wild Wadi Water Park
Go for a Safari
Al Qudra for camping
Love Lake
Expo 2020 Pavillion
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Global Village
Hope you enjoyed reading and do not forget to let me know if I missed out on anything!
The Musandam Peninsula in the northernmost tip of the Persian Gulf is one of the Arabian World’s most picturesque places. Although a part of the Sultanate of Oman, this enclave on the Strait of Hormuz is blissfully detached from other parts of the country by the UAE’s eastern coastline. With its breathtaking landscape comprising stunning fjords, sparkling waters, rugged mountains and several historical gems, Musandam is definite to capture your heart and soul. And if you can’t wait to explore them, check out this list of top things to do in Musandam.
Best Things to do in Musandam
Hit Musandam’s highest peak
For this, head to Jebel Al Harim! At a whopping height of over 2000 meters from the sea level, it’s not only the highest peak in the peninsula but also the most scenic in the whole of Musandam. Meaning ‘Mountain of Women,’ it gets this name as it was once used by the region’s women (to hide and protect themselves from the pirates) when their men were away for fishing, hunting etc.
It’s also a place of immense geological significance, being home to fossil rocks that throw light on an ancient civilization that once existed in the region. Surrounded by the most fantastic views, this high-altitude spot is a favourite of hikers, trekkers and campers alike.
Best Things to do in Musandam
Dive into underwater
For marine enthusiasts, a Musandam trip is incomplete without diving into its waters on a scuba diving or snorkelling session. After all, it has some of the Arabian world’s best diving spots such as Telegraph Islands, Lima Rock, Octopus Rock etc. Each of them is rife with exuberant underwater life comprising whales, sharks plus a vast array of corals and pelagic (including turtles, barracudas, kingfish and rays). And the best thing is that majority of these diving spots cater to all levels of divers.
Best Things to do in Musandam
Go kayaking
Don’t want to dive underwater but still want to experience the unequalled allure of its sparkling crystal clear waters? Go on a kayaking tour that allows you to admire both sea life underneath and the awe-inspiring mountainous beauty that surrounds the water at a leisurely, laid-back pace. Paddling or rowing a kayak boat is also one of the best ways to discover the region’s secluded coves and other hidden jewels along the coastline of Musandam.
Best Things to do in Musandam
Spot the boisterous dolphins
Dolphins have inhabited Musandam for millions of years. So what’s a Musandam holiday without catching up with the adorable dolphins in their real, natural habitat? Yes, don’t miss it! A dolphin-spotting excursion gives you the once in the lifetime chance to take in this creature’s strength, agility, and of course, its playful antics live, up-close. Moreover, this activity is safe due to the super friendly nature of dolphins. There are mainly two types of dolphins in Musandam, bottlenose dolphins and humpback dolphins.
Discover Dibba
Drenched in untouched natural beauty and enlightening history, this coastal town is unmissable during your Musandam trip. Whether you’re looking to go beneath its waters or want to take in the region’s modest past and culture, Dibba serves as a perfect base to discover Musandam and its amazing treasures.
Tour the historic Khasab castle
This is one of Musandam’s most visited historical attractions. Dating back to the 17th century, it was built by the Portuguese mainly to establish their reign in the Strait of Hormuz. But it later came into the hands of the Omani power and further served as the residence of Khasab’s wali. Following an extensive renovation, it’s now converted into a museum where you can see some interesting arts and artefacts that enlightens you about the region’s rich culture and heritage. Although a nominal fee is applicable to visit here, it’s still worth a visit for its antiquated architecture and fascinating displays.
Camp on the beach
Musandam’s beaches are so gorgeous that it’s worth spending a full day here. Bestowed with turquoise waters, incredible marine life, and pristine white sands, Khasab Beach is one of the most popular among them. Not to mention, it’s a haven for beach lovers, swimmers, divers etc. Its dreamy location and jaw-dropping scenery further make it perfect for an unforgettable overnight stay here. Many exclusive tours help you to discover the surreal beauty of Khasab and its beaches in utmost privacy and convenience. But make sure that you opt for one arranged by a professional service provider.
Sail down Musandam Fjords on a dhow cruise
Musandam is fondly dubbed as the Norway of the Middle East for its striking fjords and isolated mountains. And one of the best ways to take in the region’s bays, natural shores and islands are to go on a cruise aboard a traditional Omani sailing vessel (known as a dhow.) Starting with a welcome drink, this Musandam tour will cruise you down the region’s calm turquoise waters comes and with all food and refreshments on board. Apart from these, you will get to enjoy many activities as part of this cruise, such as fishing, swimming etc. Now if you wish to take this experience to a new level, consider opting for an overnight dhow cruise.
Take to heights on a pragliding adventure
If you think that all action and adventure in Musandam are centred on water, here is a thrilling activity which you can enjoy without ever getting wet. For this, simply make your way to Zighy Bay for an exciting paragliding tour. Kicking off from the Zighy Mountain (at a height of over 300 meters), this air-borne adventure feasts you the most spectacular views over the beaches, valleys and mountains that occupy the enormously majestic Zighy Bay. Whether you want to take a break from the region’s water or just want to experience Musandam from an alternative perspective, this activity is a must-do in Musandam.
Visit Kumzar
Musandam is the gateway to some of the region’s most historic and reclusive villages. Most noteworthy among them is probably Kumzar which lies in the Strait of Hormuz, amidst Oman and Iran. Believed to have been populated for more than 700 years, this quaint yet endlessly charming settlement is accessible only via a boat from Khasab. This takes around one hour to reach here on a speed boat tour and more than 2.5 hours on a dhow cruise. Being Kumzar one of Oman’s most secluded places with their own unique culture and language, non-Omanis must get prior approval to visit here.
Conclusion
With so much to experience in Musandam, go ahead and take inspiration from this precise list! It ensures that you won’t miss out on its absolute or unmissable highlights.
Hope you enjoyed reading this as much as we enjoyed jotting it down, don’t forget to read more travel-related posts here.
Let’s talk about Investing in Cryptocurrency In the UAE but before that, let’s understand what Cryptocurrency means. You may be familiar with the most popular versions, Bitcoin and Ethereum, but there are more than 4,000 different cryptocurrencies in circulation. In simple terms, cryptocurrency is decentralized digital money, based on blockchain technology. Part of the appeal of this technology is its security. You can use crypto to buy goods and services, although many people invest in cryptocurrencies as they would in other assets. While cryptocurrency is an interesting asset class, buying it is risky and you must take on a fair amount of research to fully understand how each system wors
Investing in Cryptocurrency In the UAE
Many companies have announced their cryptocurrencies, often called tokens, and these can be exchanged specifically for the good or service that the company provides. Think of them as you would arcade tokens or casino chips. You’ll need to exchange real currency for the cryptocurrency to access the good or service.
Investing in Bitcoin In the UAE?
UAE was also unknown and unfamiliar with cryptocurrency until 2018 when the country made investing in Cryptocurrency in the UAE legal. The move was welcomed by all and sundry and soon investing in Cryptocurrency in the UAE saw a trend like never before. The Dubai Blockchain Strategy envisions making Dubai one of the first cities to entirely adopt blockchain technology and even integrate it in government effectiveness. Today, UAE cryptocurrency is actively becoming part of the global trend. To become a pioneer in blockchain technology, the UAE has launched the UAE Blockchain Strategy 2021, according to which 50% of government transactions will be conducted using blockchain technology by 2021. To safeguard the interest of the people who are investing in cryptocurrency in the UAE and to prevent any dubious activity, the government has already started taking the necessary precautionary steps.
How to invest in Cryptocurrency in the UAE?
While there are plenty of platforms available to buy and transact in cryptocurrency in the UAE, the one that I personally trust and I find extremely user friendly is BitOasis You can create an account for free by clicking here.
Final Words
Talking about the future of investing in cryptocurrency in the UAE, the UAE landscape is very favourable for blockchain and cryptocurrencies and hence the authorities are increasingly contemplating organizing such business activities and attending to the market demands and protecting the interests of consumers, businesses, and investors.
Hope you found this article useful and do not forget to check more tips/tricks and suggestions here.
Like many of you, I’ve been a huge fan of Bear Grylls Explorer Camp for as long as I can remember! I used to get an adrenaline rush just by watching him on the TV on the famous Man vs Wild. Growing up, I would watch his shows and see him survive in the wilderness all on his own and then I would daydream of doing the same someday! Fast forward to this day, I had a chance to visit and experience World’s First Bear Grylls Explorers Camp in Ras Al Khaimah (Dreams do come true!)
The world’s first Bear Grylls unique outdoor lodge, nestled on the UAE’s highest mountain, Jebel Jais, is an incredible experience in itself that shouldn’t be missed. Opened its doors for visitors on March 3, 2021, and since then has been in news for all the right reasons. In this post, learn everything about Bear Grylls Explorers Camp in Ras Al Khaimah.
Bear Grylls Explorers Camp
Bear Grylls Explorers camp- What is it?
Set in the lap of nature, Bear Grylls explorers camp is ideal for individuals as well as groups. Strict safety protocols and social distancing measures are followed always. It is an ideal experience for the growing number of travellers who want to escape everyday hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. What makes this camp stand apart from the rest is that one can learn some important survival skills here from the experts. There are plenty of exciting instructor-led survival courses as well as activities like mountain biking, mountain climbing. There are also some self-guided and instructor-led hikes available. You can learn practical and extreme survival technique, such as how to make a fire in the wild, how to build a shelter, how to manage extreme weather, etc.
The lodges are designed to accommodate up to three adults, or two adults and one child, with self-catering facilities, that also includes a private BBQ to prepare meals. Cabins made up and equipped with reusable plates, bowls, cutlery, mugs BBQ tools, etc. while there is also an on-site shop that provides other amenities like food items, firewood, toiletries, etc. that can be purchased as and when needed.
Bear Grylls Explorers Camp is about reconnecting with nature while learning some important survival skills. While being in the camp, amidst the wilderness, one gets a marvellous opportunity to awaken and ignite the camper’s spirit and relax. The camp is located in a flat Wadi and there literally nothing nearby except for raw nature. From the camp, it’s around a 20-minute drive to the top of Jebel Jais, where you can find other attractions like the world’s longest zip line, the UAE’s highest restaurant and numerous viewing platforms.
Bear Grylls Explorers Camp in Ras Al Khaimah
The lodges
Honestly, at the Bear Grylls Explorers camp, given that the experience is all about survival and reconnecting with nature, I was bracing myself to encounter the worst! As I entered the upcycled shipping container cabin, I was taken aback by the amenities provided! Do not compare it with a 5-star hotel, that’s not what it is about! The exposed wood walls giving the cabin a very raw and rustic feel. It has what it needs and in fact more than what I expected! A double bed, pillows, blankets, a ladder leading to a single bunk above (that made me so ecstatic!). You can check more here. Each cabin also has a fridge, kettle, air-conditioning and ample storage, an attached toilet with all the basic amenities. The windows give a view of the picture-perfect mountains.
Bear Grylls Explorers Camp in Ras Al Khaimah
Insider Tip
Remember to go through the website and pack according to what is and isn’t provided. Bear Grylls Explorers Camp is a survival experience, so you do only get the bare minimum in the room. You won’t find things like towels, hand soap, toothpaste, shower gel or teas and coffees waiting for you in your cabin, so ensure you pack everything. Carry your food, drinks, etc. with you. Also, think beforehand about what activity you would want to go for. You can bring your dog! (Yes!) Two dogs are also permitted per cabin, at an extra cost of Dh50 per dog. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times in the camp. Carry pet food, belongings etc. with you. Take benefit of the ongoing offers from their website.
Bear Grylls
The bottom line
If you are looking for a raw and an out-of-the city break minus the mundane UAE staycation luxuries, if you are willing to learn about the survival skills or take up some courses in some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery then the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp needs to be on your list. Hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed exploring it, don’t forget to read more travel-related posts here.
Are you interested in contributing an article to this blog? I am so excited to welcome contributors to share their guest posts on World With Maria. This is a growing site about travel, food, tips, adventures, reviews, experiences, tips and this blog is becoming an informational resource for everyone. I am now inviting bloggers, writers, students, travel/food enthusiasts, to contribute.
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