Calendar Of Annual Local Events in Oman - May to July

There's so much happening in Oman all year round. Plan ahead with our monthly events calendar. 




May

Masirah Turtle Festival Week 



Launched
in 2010, the Environment Society of Oman has held a dedicated Masirah TurtleFestival Week each May. Conservation-focussed activities include marine
research, turtle-themed football competitions and local beach clean-ups.
Masirah is the largest nesting

Top 16 Oman Travel Guides

The diversity of choice in Oman will make almost any length of holiday seem too short to take everything in.






The only way you’ll be able to accomplish that is if you plan properly. These guides will help you do that.



Did you know that if you look up the phrase “Oman Travel Guide” on Amazon, it will give you nearly 150 options to choose from? You can source additional information

Calendar Of Annual Local Events in Oman - March to April

There's so much happening in Oman all year round. Plan ahead with our monthly events calendar. 




March



Bird Watching



March
is one of the best months for bird watching due to cooler temperatures andmigratory patterns. Visitors can see many species of birds in each of Oman’s
different regions. The Al Ansab wetlands in Muscat,
Al Hikam Peninsula, Masirah
Island, Wusta Governorate

Calendar Of Annual Local Events in Oman - January to February

There's so much happening in Oman all year round. Plan ahead with our monthly events calendar. 



January-February



Extreme Sailing Series



Book
a ringside seat for the ninth annual Extreme Sailing Series, kicking off againin 2015 at Muscat’s The Wave. Multihull sailing vessels race in challenging
conditions daringly close to the spectators watching from the shores.

The Simplest Way to Make the Best of Dining

Omani Gastronomy


Local dining opportunities range from international fine dining to simple street food. True to the country’s marine heritage, seafood plays a prominent part throughout Omani cuisine. Muscat’s atmospheric Muttrah Fish Market is packed with piles of fresh crab, crayfish, tuna, sea-bass and red mullet.








To enjoy a genuine Omani feast, many hotels host traditional Arabian

Student launches Wedding Heaven

A third-year UCLan Tourism student has seen one of her innovative ideas come to life.

Beth Higson spotted a gap in the market to showcase award-winning wedding venues while volunteering at Visit Ribble Valley and has now launched the 'Wedding Heaven' website which highlights the area's stunning wedding venues to bride and grooms.

Her creative thinking has also landed Beth a role within the wedding and events team at Mellor's Stanley House Hotel and Spa.

She commented: "Studying Tourism at UCLan has equipped me with the key skills and competencies to actively seek such opportunities, and be given a leading role in the development of a major project such as Wedding Heaven.

"Modules in marketing and events management provided me with the essential knowledge needed in the industry, whilst networking and voluntary experience propelled me into my current role as a Wedding Coordinator."

Course Leader Carley Sutton added: "Beth studied the principles and practices of Marketing including website design during her second year of the International Tourism Management degree.

"Whilst studying, Beth has collaborated with a number of industry practitioners who are seeking Tourism Degree students with the business management skills that are needed for the industry.

"Beth is also the chair of the UCLan Tourism Society and is currently in the process of securing her dream graduate career within the tourism industry."

To visit the 'Wedding Heaven' website please click here.

Citizens' Rail project update

Nick (back row, 4th from right)

Nick Davies from UCLan's Institute of Travel and Tourism was in Germany last week for the latest Citizens' Rail partner meeting.

Group members travelled to Aachen to visit a number of interesting sites, including Alsdorf Annapark station which has an innovative level crossing and roundabout. Located in a former coal mining district, the project has won an architectural award.

Next stop was the newly created St Joris station, followed by a visit to a Euregiobahn construction site deep in the woods. The site poses challenges, as the new track has to pass through a nature reserve and go under another railway line.

The group moved onto Stolberg station, the headquarters of EVS who are the private local rail infrastructure company for the Euregiobahn network. As well as receiving an informative presentation and behind-the-scenes tour from EVS, sessions were held to update partners on the latest progress in the Citizens' Rail project, including the successful visit of Lancashire school children to Aachen and Parkstad Limburg, and a workshop to continue the development of the Practitioner Toolkit.

The destination on the final day was Eilendorf station, where Citizens' Rail partners are planning major improvements working alongside the local community.

The Best Souks in Oman: A Cultural Experience

Souks and Souvenirs - One of the most beautiful attractions of Oman.


Oman is home to numerous souks. These traditional marketplaces have been an integral part of local life for centuries. Every place has its distinctive flavour and every city has a market that relates its stories, embraces its history and accompanies its evolution.



Both Khanjar daggers and frankincense are prized local

The Golf Courses Article of Your Dreams

www.ghalavalley.com


Which would be your favourite course to play golf in Oman?



Although relatively new to the Sultanate of Oman, Muscat now has three 18-hole golf courses within easy reach of each other, with more expected to be launch in the near future. For those wanting to learn the game, each course also has an Academy staffed by qualified golf instructors who will be happy to guide

The Rich Cultural Heritage of Muscat

The
country’s rich cultural heritage is well preserved in Muscat's many museums, including:



The Oman Museum, which covers
5,000 years of local history, with displays on shipbuilding, Islam and
fort architecture
Bait
Al Zubair located
within a traditional Omani house, giving insight into Omani lifestyle and
traditions
The Natural
History Museum,
with

Lancashire Tourism Awards 2014

UCLan Tourism recently took part in the prestigious Lancashire Tourism Awards held at Blackpool's famous Tower Ballroom.

Over 600 colleagues from the tourism industry were in attendance at the event, which was hosted by esteemed journalist and broadcaster John Sergeant.

Dr Adrian Ibbetson from UCLan's School of Sport, Tourism and The Outdoors presented Lancaster House with the Large Hotel 2014 award, whilst Northcote, Langho, received the Small Hotel accolade from Division Leader Jane Shaw.

UCLan were one of the evening's headline sponsors of the Awards, which saw 20 of the region's finest tourism businesses and a Tourism Superstar recognised for excellence in their field. Most of the Lancashire winners now have the opportunity to go on to represent the county in the national Visit England Awards for Excellence 2015.

Ruth Connor, Chief Executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: "The Awards are all about our Lancashire tourism businesses and ambassadors, who are simply the best in terms of quality, diversity, endurance and sheer tenacity in creating products, services and experiences that customers come back for time and time again."

Jane Shaw added: "It was a wonderful evening once again and a great opportunity for our Division to network with a range of people from across the Tourism Industry. We're proud to be associated with the Lancashire Tourism Awards and can't wait for next year’s event."

Institute completes research studies

The Institute of Transport of Tourism (ITT) has recently completed two extensive research studies.

Dr Richard Weston (left) and Nick Davies (below) have produced a practitioner manual for the European-funded project 'Greenways Product'. The eighteen-month, international collaborative project was aimed to promote active tourism on European Greenways by marketing tour packages.

As part of the project ITT undertook an extensive review of research on the evaluation and monitoring of walking and cycling resources, which have underpinned the manual for practitioners who evaluate the economic, environmental and social impacts of greenways.

The research will supplement academic papers and Dr Weston hopes to present the findings at next years' 'VeloCity' conference, the international conference for cycling professionals.

To view the manual please click here.

ITT research into European Passenger Rights and Tourism Policy carried out for the European parliament has also been released.

In conjunction with Eurac Research Centre, Bolzano, ITT undertook the study (the first of its kind), to explore the effects of European legislation on Passenger Rights and Tourism Policy.

The research is available here.

Introduction To Oman

 A Unique Culture and Stunning Landscapes


The
second largest country on the Arabian Peninsula (the same size as Germany), Oman boasts a unique culture and
stunning landscapes. Its vast array of natural attractions range from rugged
mountain ranges to ochre deserts. Divers, hikers and history buffs all relish the
pristine local waters, untouched coastline and labyrinthine souks. The
country’s

Prince Harry arrives in Oman for Sultanate's National Day

Her Excellency Maitha Al Mahrouqi; Undersecretary of Oman Ministry of Tourism greets HRH Prince Harry




Prince Harry arrived in the Sultanate of Oman on Tuesday 18 November just in time for the Sultanate's National Day, the visit reflects a close personal and respectful relationship that exists between The Royal Families of both countries. The Prince is keen to see and experience the

Oman’s Heritage: Forts, Castles And Towers

From ancient ruins and
Portuguese forts to a gorgeous Grand Mosque, Oman will satisfy even the most ardenthistory addicts.




Ancients Forts



Oman’s heritage is evident in the 500 forts, castles and towers thatshowcase its rich cultural past. Muscat’s
historical port area is the site of the Sultan’s
Palace. Here two Portuguese-built 16th-century forts, Jalali (Eastern) and Mirani (Western)

A Favourite Pastime For Omanis: Horseback Riding

Few scenes evoke wild Arabia as the image of riding horseback across desert dunes. Which makes it no surprise that there's a long tradition of riding in Oman, from show jumping and dressage to endurance racing and simple countryside exploration. 



Horses symbolise integrity and pride. Because of the horse’s high status and appreciation by Muslims, Oman has been famous since ancient times for

Division receives VIP invite to showpiece Awards ceremony

UCLan Tourism's Carley Sutton will be a VIP guest at the prestigious North of England Excellence (NOEE) Awards tonight.

These annual Awards, now in their 20th year, are made to organisations in the Region that have demonstrated they are role models of excellence through rigorous scrutiny by a team of trained assessors. Around 400 business leaders from across the North are expected to attend the event.

Carley's invitation follows continued research and teaching collaborations with Dave Rusk, Director of Education & Training for NOEE.

Event sponsors for the Awards, which are recognised as the business Oscars in the region, include BSI Group and the BBC.

The event takes place at the Royal Armouries, Leeds. For further information about the NOEE Awards please click here.

Students visit National Park

First year UCLan Tourism undergraduates recently visited Yorkshire Dales National Park as part of their studies.

The group explored White Scar and Ingleborough Caves for their 'Tourism Destinations' module which is designed to provide the opportunity to study some natural geographical tourism attractions.

The trip also presented them with issues and challenges on sustainability for the two cave attractions with regards to the impacts of tourism. A selection of images from the trip can be viewed here.

The Oman Ministry of Tourism at WTM 2014

The Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Tourism celebrates its 10th Anniversary and record visitor figures at WTM.

At the 10th Anniversary celebrations of the Ministry of Tourism's creation, the Undersecretary Her Excellency Maitha Al Mahrouqi, joined by 21 private sector companies, announced a consistent 10% increase of visitor figures from the UK for 2014.

UK visitor numbers have grown from 25,000

UClan and Merlin deliver Tourism in Action

UCLan Tourism recently provided undergraduates with first-hand industry exposure with one of the largest visitor attraction operators in the world.

First year students visited a variety of Merlin Entertainments attractions in Blackpool as part of the 'Tourism in Action' module, which is designed to directly engage them with industry at a very early stage in their course.

Iain Hawkins, Merlin's Head of Cluster, welcomed the students who then toured a number of Blackpool's leading attractions including Sea Life, Madame Tussauds and Blackpool Tower Dungeons.

The group assessed tourism development and facilities within the resort and the influences determining the success of visitor attractions. It was also an opportunity to develop their research and networking skills.

Student Paul Tully commented: "It was great to see how Merlin operated in Blackpool after finding out so much about them. Please pass on my thanks to Merlin - the staff in the attractions are all excellent representatives and really help make an enjoyable visit."

Course Leader Carley Sutton and Merlin Group have established ongoing work experience and international graduate opportunities for UCLan Tourism students, which could see them progress straight onto the company's 18 month fast-track graduate programme, training to be one of the future leaders of a global business.

Carley said: "I can't thank Iain and his team at the Blackpool Merlin Entertainments cluster enough - our collaborations have allowed our students to take part and be exposed to critical industry challenges within a leading organisation and resort."

Iain added: "It was a pleasure to see the students engage with their tasks. Hopefully it will encourage them all to be the future stars of Merlin!"

OMAN MINISTRY OF TOURISM MARKS ITS TENTH ANNIVERSARY

   THE SULTANATE
OF OMAN MINISTRY OF TOURISM MARKS ITS TENTH ANNIVERSARY,

   PAST
ACHIEVEMENTS AND NEW DEVELOPMENTS DURING WORLD TRAVEL MARKET.



Oman’s Ministry of Tourism tenth anniversary marks its
many achievements over the past ten years in particular consistent visitor
growth and the accolades received for its successful marketing campaigns. Her Excellency
Maitha Al Mahrouqi,

Join the UCLan Tourism Society

The UCLan Tourism Society gives you the chance to enhance your profile through networking opportunities and receive peer-to-peer advice on assignments, placement/work experience searches and university life.

Domestic trips and guest speakers are organised throughout the year. You will be able to share your passion for the tourism industry in a supportive environment.

The Society aims to provide members with a wealth of contacts and opportunities to enable them to succeed in this competitive industry.

Membership is free - to join please click here.

The Society are also looking for a 1st and 2nd year student to assist in the running of the society and communicate with their year group, so if this is something you would be interested in please email Freya Evans.

10th Anniversary of The Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Tourism at WTM 2014

The Oman Ministry of Tourism’s tenth anniversary marks
its many achievements over the past ten years in particular consistent visitor
growth and the accolades received for its successful marketing campaigns. Her Excellency
Maitha Al Mahrouqi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Tourism is joined at WTM
by a delegation from the ministry and 21 companies from the Oman private sector
at the cutting

Ancient Trade Routes And Cross Remote Plateaus: Hiking in Oman

Oman’s mountains provide excellent conditions for trekking. Intrepid
explorers can expect to stumble across otherworldly vistas, unusual fossils and
herds of impressively sure-footed mountain goats. Hikes through Jabal Akhdar often follow T. Falaj,
or rivers of underground water that have been channelled through narrow canals
for irrigation, connect many of the mountain villages. On hot summer

Adventure travel in Oman: Cross-Country Cycling

The
Tour of Oman – which takes place on
a track designed by cycling legend Eddy Merckx – celebrated its fifth edition
in 2014. The race has attracted a wide range of
international cyclists, including stars such as Sir Bradley Wiggins, Alberto
Contador and Fabian Cancellara. British Olympian Chris Froome won the Tour of
Oman in 2014.







With
the Tour de France celebrating its 100th year in

Oman – Dream Destination, Travel Bulletin Star Awards

Oman Hailed as Dream Destination




And…we won!



Hailed as “Dream Destination Star Middle East Tourist Office”, byTravel Bulletin, Oman Ministry of Tourism got their first Travel Bulletin Star Award for the Star Middle East Tourist Board 2014 (runners-up Dubai, other nominations Abu Dhabi and Jordan).



“We are extremely honored to be receiving such an important award and very grateful for

Adventure travel in Oman: On two or four wheels

Whether it is sun-kissed desert dunes
at sunrise, verdant wadi oases at
high noon or cycling into the sunset, Oman is a delight to explore on two
or four wheels.



Desert Dunes



Best
explored in a 4WD vehicle, the dunes of Wahiba Sands cover a whopping 12,400km2.
They soar up to 200m high, and are tinged a variety of rainbow hues from orange
to deep amber. For bolder visitors, the 650,000km2

Researching the research: helping the BPA to understand more about the parking profession

The British Parking Association (BPA) is seeking expressions of interest from individuals willing to collaborate with them to research the parking research.

The aim of this project is to identify parking data and research that currently already exists across the UK. The BPA want to use this to create an annual programme of research, whereby all future commissioned projects will be informed by a gap analysis of this data.

They require a university undergraduate, postgraduate or recent graduate with library and information studies or archiving experience, who is seeking work experience or wishes to extend the practical application of their learning and enhance their CV.

To view the project brief please click here. Proposals should be submitted to Carrie Drage by Monday, 3rd November, 2014.

Spotting Sea Mammals In Oman

Of
the world’s 88 species of cetaceans, around a quarter have been spotted in the
coastal waters off Oman.
Whale, dolphin and porpoise spotting are hugely popular activities.
Humpback whales and Bryde’s whales are most commonly sighted, while the temperate
waters of the Musandam Peninsula are considered
a dolphin playground. Sperm whales have also been recently spotted off the
Omani coastline

Top 4 Water Adventure in Oman

Dhow Cruises


Cruising
through the northern Musandam Peninsula’s dolphin-dotted “Fjords of Arabia” (ruus al jebel) on a traditional wooden dhow boat is an idyllic and eco-friendly way to explore
Oman.
From Khasab, a small fishing port and Musandam’s principle town, dhows set out
on day, overnight or weekend cruises to the picturesque inlet of Khawr Ash
Shamm, Telegraph Island
or the

Institute completes European tourism research

Dr Richard Weston (left) and Nick Davies of the Institute of Transport & Tourism (ITT) recently completed a research note for the European Parliamentary Research Service.

The paper will inform European policy on tourism and passenger rights and will lead on to future research in the area.

The European Academy of Bozen/Bolzano, Italy collaborated with the Institute in the research.

For more information about the ITT please click here.

Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre; A Place To Be Inspired