For over three decades, a unique relationship has blossomed between a seasoned Austrian traveller and Oman, revealing the story of a country that captured his heart and never let go. Rainer Skrovny, an adventurer from Nimza, Austria, first set foot in Oman in 1991 as part of a brief visit to the Gulf region, a place that at the time was largely unfamiliar to Western travellers. Reflecting on his journeys, Skrovny speaks passionately about how Oman’s distinct beauty and warmth kept him coming back, year after year.
His first trip was short, just a three-day stopover following a visit to the Emirates. “At that time, I had no specific expectations,” he shared. “But those three days were enough to know I wanted to come back to explore more. I told my wife that I needed more time to understand Oman.” Soon after, Skrovny made good on that promise. The following season, he returned with friends, renting cars and embarking on a road trip through Oman’s diverse landscapes, ultimately reaching the enchanting southern city of Salalah.
Travelling in Oman during the early 1990s was a very different experience than it is today. “Infrastructure was minimal, and language barriers were significant,” Skrovny recalls. “Most Omanis speak English now, but back then, it was quite basic. Maps and travel guides were almost non-existent, making navigation and planning more of an adventure.” Tourism infrastructure was just beginning to develop, and the Omani government had yet to place tourism as a primary focus. In those early days, Skrovny and his companions camped frequently due to the limited availability of hotels and other accommodations.
One experience stands out vividly: “Driving down to Salalah, we stopped in a village called Shaleem. The petrol station there had no electricity; it was manual,” he says with a nostalgic laugh. “It was both challenging and charming, an experience you wouldn’t find today.” This raw authenticity, however, is what hooked Skrovny and inspired him to introduce Oman to a broader audience.
Throughout the 1990s, Oman began to open its doors to more international visitors, and by the end of the decade, tourism started gaining momentum. “We saw more tourists arriving, especially in the northern parts of Oman,” he notes. Roads improved, hotels appeared, and basic facilities evolved to cater to international travellers. Skrovny and his team even partnered with a local supplier named Mark Tours, who helped them arrange tailored trips. “Our clients began to see Oman as an exclusive, almost untouched destination,” he says.
While Oman has become more accessible over the years, the journey has preserved its unique appeal. Even today, there are still travellers who are wary of venturing into the Middle East. “Oman has managed to remain a hidden gem,” Skrovny explains, “and that appeals to travellers who are looking for something distinct, something beyond mainstream tourism.”
In recent years, Oman has undergone significant developments in tourism and infrastructure, embracing change while staying true to its cultural roots. Roads and highways now rival those of developed nations, making travel smoother and more efficient. Boutique hotels, resorts, and eco-lodges have opened across the country, offering unique experiences and accommodations for all types of travellers. Notable areas like Nizwa have transformed dramatically: once quiet and largely unexplored, the old city of Nizwa now buzzes with life, boasting boutique hotels, cafes, and restaurants that attract visitors and showcase Oman’s rich heritage.
Skrovny is particularly intrigued by these changes. “Places like Nizwa have become vibrant, breathing life back into the old city,” he reflects. “It would be wonderful to see this model replicated in other parts of Oman, preserving history while promoting local culture.” He also notes smaller developments that add a modern touch without overshadowing tradition. “I was surprised, for instance, to see espresso shops in tiny fishing villages. It’s a small change, but it represents a fascinating evolution.”
For those who haven’t yet discovered Oman, Skrovny offers a clear message: “Oman is an incredibly safe and welcoming country. Visitors never feel out of place or unsafe, and the hospitality is genuine and warm.” While Oman may lack the singular, iconic landmarks of Egypt’s pyramids or India’s Taj Mahal, it offers an abundance of smaller, equally captivating treasures. “The country is full of unique and beautiful places. It doesn’t have a singular landmark, but it has a diverse landscape that continuously fascinates visitors.”
He speaks to the allure of Oman’s varied environment, from stunning deserts and mountains to serene beaches and wadis, all of which cater to travellers seeking a rich, immersive experience. “Oman has so much to offer. Its beauty is subtle yet powerful, appealing to travellers who appreciate a destination that reveals itself slowly, with layers of discovery.”
Through his travels, Skrovny has fostered connections with the Omani people, forming bonds that have lasted decades. “It’s the people who make Oman special,” he reflects. “Their kindness, generosity, and openness are what keep me coming back.” His journeys have taken him to Oman’s most remote corners and introduced him to communities and landscapes that many tourists might overlook. In a way, his story mirrors the story of Oman itself—a quiet strength, a land that embraces change while retaining the essence of what makes it unique.
As Oman continues to develop its tourism sector, it remains mindful of preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Skrovny’s message to potential visitors is simple yet powerful: “Come to Oman. Explore its landscapes, experience its hospitality, and immerse yourself in a place where authenticity is at the heart of everything.”
Oman’s journey from a hidden gem to an admired destination is a testament to its resilience and vision. With travellers like Skrovny sharing their stories and encouraging others to explore this remarkable country, Oman’s reputation as a unique and safe destination grows. To Oman and the people who call it home, Skrovny extends his gratitude for the decades of unforgettable experiences they have shared.
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