For any visitor, the appeal of a city is based on its vibrant art and architecture, geographical setting, unique cultural identity, etc. While plenty of urban destinations are scenic during the day, many of them really shine differently at night!
We know most cities are characterised by landmarks that make them more beautiful and charming for the eyes and take on a new persona at night under the stars, the soft glow of the moon, and electric illuminations.
Those historic buildings evoke emotions in their spectators and make them able to see the smallest architectural details that glow under lights. This sight probably has fascinated writers, musicians, poets, storytellers, philosophers, scientists, and dreamers in their real or fictional narratives.
But for cities to get ranked as the most scenic nighttime destinations in the world, low light and noise pollution levels and the safety of walking alone at night are factors that make them to the top positions.
Travelbag ranked Muscat as the third most scenic city in the world at night, after Dubai and Tokyo, leaving Singapore, Hiroshima, Kyoto, New York City, Sydney, Abu Dhabi, and Taipei behind.
This ranking makes us happy, enriches its position in our hearts, and brings it to the top of the global tourism and cultural map.
“Oman’s capital city is becoming one of the prettiest cities at night. And we’re not surprised, as exploring this incredibly picturesque city after sunset is something everyone should add to their bucket list," said Travelbag, a company specialising in multi-destination trips, while declaring the ranking in its report.
Travelbag experts assessed 136 of the world’s most popular cities to identify the top 10 cities to explore after dark. Factors such as Instagram hashtags, levels of light and noise pollution, and nighttime safety were analysed to compile the rankings.
“The low light pollution in Muscat, at 29.9, means you can easily see stars at night, even in the city’s centre”, said Travelbag, the long-haul travel specialist, in the report.
No doubt, Muscat is one of the oldest and most charming and beautiful cities in the Middle East. Between its Sea Road areas and its modern neighbourhoods, lie those Portuguese-style forts, blue-domed mosques, royal palaces, old markets and other landmarks all bearing the character and atmosphere of ancient Arab life.
In this regard, the Travelbag report highlights the elegant Royal Opera House, shopping for textiles and antiques at Mutrah Souq, and the beauty of the commanding silhouettes of historic forts and palaces.
Reflecting contemporary Omani architecture, the stunning Opera House is a world-class musical venue and showcases beautifully designed marble, inlaid wood, and arabesque design.
The Mutrah Souq is located in the centre of the Sea Road, in the old town, right on the port side. It is a destination for visitors from inside and outside the Sultanate of Oman to enjoy the fragrance of the ancient past, reflected in its old handicrafts and a number of different goods.
It is a typical old market with shops selling traditional Arab perfumes, handicrafts, traditional clothes, antique furniture, gold and silverware, and Omani artifacts, some of which are quite fascinating.
The Sultan Qaboos Mosque is the biggest in the country and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. The design of the mosque reflects both Omani and Islamic architectural styles.
Oman has hundreds of forts, castles, and towers scattered along the length and breadth of this picturesque country. They are a major attraction to international and domestic tourists.
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