

As one of the leading digital creators with over 66 countries explored and nearly 100k followers on Instagram, Lauren Carey’s journey is one of inspiring storytelling and breathtaking photography.
Known for her account @girlgoneabroad, Lauren has spent over a decade living abroad, traveling solo, and immersing herself in cultures around the world. But her recent trip to Oman has left a mark like no other, placing the Sultanate of Oman among her top travel experiences.

In her words, “In a very short time, Oman left a lasting impression on me - so much so that it’s now one of my favourite countries I’ve ever visited!” The country, famous for its landscapes, diverse terrains, and rich heritage, quickly captured her heart.
“I was amazed by the sheer variety Oman offers - cities, beaches, deserts, and stunning mountains - all within just a few days.”
This vast diversity became one of the most striking aspects of her six-day journey. Oman’s untouched beauty, free from heavy tourism, felt like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. A true photographer’s paradise, Lauren captured around 1,100 photos during her trip. From the stunning architecture of Muscat to the vibrant souq stalls, every shot seemed to narrate its own story. One particularly memorable moment was her time at the Birkat Al Mouz Viewpoint, where locals helped her capture the incredible mountain backdrop.

While Oman’s landscapes wowed her, the experiences were equally unforgettable. Snorkeling with turtles at sunrise at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah was a moment Lauren calls “unforgettable.”
Her adventures also took her to the majestic mountains of Jebel Shams and Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort, where she tackled the Via Ferrata, a thrilling cliffside experience. “Weaving through dramatic cliffs and canyons in the early morning light was an experience I’ll never forget,” she shares.
Oman’s desert added yet another layer of charm. Lauren spent her first night in the desert at the Thousand Nights Camp, feeling a deep connection to the land. “It was truly a stay to remember,” she recalls. With Khimji’s House of Travel (KHoT) meticulously organising her trip, she had no trouble navigating Oman’s rugged terrains. Her advice to future travelers? Be prepared for 4WD adventures, especially when exploring the more remote areas.

Lauren’s journey to Oman had been a long time coming. Photos she had come across on social media inspired the idea, and when the opportunity arose to collaborate with KHoT and Lufthansa City Center, it became the perfect chance to tick Oman off her travel bucket list.
Lauren’s travel account, @girlgoneabroad, was born over a decade ago during her time in Thailand. “I was a girl, going abroad, and thought it was catchy,” she explains. The name stuck, and since then, it has become synonymous with Lauren’s vibrant travel content that inspires her growing global audience.
Today, Lauren’s approach to travel has evolved. “I’ve slowed down compared to my earlier years, but I’m still passionate about meaningful travel experiences,” she says. Now based in Amsterdam, she continues to share her global adventures and her life in the Netherlands through both her Instagram accounts, @girlgoneabroad and @girlgonenl.

Lauren has plans to expand her creative pursuits, including writing a book inspired by her travels. She also aims to collaborate with tourism boards and hotels to create authentic content that displays unique destinations.
When not traveling, Lauren enjoys Amsterdam’s vibrant culture, savoring new dining experiences, and capturing daily life through her lens. Her love for fiction books, especially those set in places she has visited, provides her with an escape when at home.
Lauren’s journey exemplifies the power of travel, photography, and storytelling. Through her lens, Oman is not just a destination but also an adventure, a place of beauty, and a reminder of how travel can transform the way we see the world.

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