Whether you are a travel buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing vacation with family or friends, the coastal city of Sur is a feast for the senses with an array of options, including its rich history, heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.
This is what renowned destination writers in different travel magazines describe this ancient Omani city while recommending it as one of the best tourist spots to visit in any season in 2024.
The choice of Sur as a premier locale comes close on the heels of the city’s selection as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024, during the meeting of the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism in its 26th session in Doha.
The decision makes the city to be included in the World Heritage List and the Preliminary List, in addition to natural sites such as beaches, valleys, springs, caves and natural reserves, which attract tourists from inside and outside the Sultanate of Oman.
“From pristine beaches and historic landmarks to vibrant souks and traditional dhows, Sur offers an immersive experience that visitors should not miss if visiting Oman this year”, reveals Breaking Travel News, an online platform for travellers.
Sur was selected as the Tourism Capital following several criteria such as the availability of infrastructure and tourism resources, the diversity of tourism activities and policies for preserving the environment.
“Drive to Sur, which is a beautiful port city where you can see plenty of lovely boats used every day by fishermen. It has lots of beautiful beaches where you can do various water sports, but it is most famous for being a place where turtles come to lay their eggs which brings many to come and see”, writes, The News Minute,
a digital news platform in India.
Sur City port which is one of the oldest ports in the world, played a very important role in forming the trade with more than one hundred and fifty sailing ships daily during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Whether it’s relaxing on the pristine beaches, visiting its iconic castle and lighthouses, or venturing out into the desert landscape, the newly designated Capital of Arab Tourism has many things to offer everyone.
“Steeped in tradition and heritage, Sur Old Town offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural tapestry through its ancient architecture, bustling souks and vibrant community life”, says the popular travel guidance portal.
Located on the Sea of Oman coast, it is a picturesque two-hour drive to Sur from the capital Muscat to travel through some of Oman’s finest mountain ranges and scenic vistas.
“Sur is the base for many day trip destinations like Ras-Al-Hadd, Wadi Shab, Wahiba Sands, and many more”, says Holidify, India's favourite trip planning website.
Visitors can also explore the city’s historic sites, such as the Sur Fort, which dates back to the 17th century, and the Sur Heritage Village, which showcases traditional Omani architecture and culture.
Additionally, there are many beautiful wadis and mountains in the surrounding area, which offer opportunities for hiking and camping.
“Sur, a placid sea coast town with its striking traditional dwellings, is a pleasant getaway and one of the most important towns in the eastern region. A trip through Sur's labyrinth of streets reveals many fine old houses with carved doors and arabesque windows”, writes Audleytravel.com.
Sur played a very important role in forming the trade with more than one hundred and fifty sailing ships daily during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
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