Seek and find
A destination where you can feel like you're in a fairytale from 1001 Nights? Oman, where your journey begins in the enchanting capital of Muscat, with a history dating back 12.000 years. Situated on the Gulf of Oman and embraced by the Hajar Mountains, one day you could be trekking through the desert, the next enjoying fresh fish and spotting dolphins. Muscat is a unique city that you definitely shouldn't miss on a tour of Oman, if only for the delicious food, luxurious hotels, and breathtaking souks. Expect Eastern mysticism with Western comfort! Oman is considered one of the safest and most traditional destinations in the Middle East. In this new travel guide, I've compiled 12 unmissable highlights and sights, useful tips, and fun things to do in and around Muscat.
Oprah House, Muscat, Oman
| HOW TO GET THERE: With KLM Fly from Amsterdam (AMS) to Muscat International Airport (MCT) in 9 hours, with one layover. The airport is right next to the city center! You can reach the city center in 15 minutes by taxi or rental car, and in 30 minutes by public transport. More information about the airport can be found on the Muscat International Airport website >>
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𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟭𝟰, 𝟭𝟱, 𝟭𝟲 & 𝟭𝟳
HELLO long weekend!
With Ascension Day turning today into a little Friday kind of day ;-), this is the moment to gather your friends and do something fun.
And trust me: there is a lot happening in Amsterdam!
From Rollende Keukens taking over Westerpark to Aardbewoners Festival at @artis_amsterdam, Proef Pampus on Forteiland Pampus, CABINET Curated Curiosa & Design Market at the Centrale Markthal, Museum Market on Museumplein, Royal Palace audio tours for all ages, and Pure Markt in the Amsterdamse Bos.
Also fun to check out: you can get SALVO Miso Caramel Tiramisu Lattes at a Bike Thru in Amsterdam-Noord!
💬 Comment 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 and I'll send you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide with all 107 tips straight to your DMs.
What's your vibe this long weekend? You can find me in ARTIS and at Rollende Keukens!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Follow @yourlbb for the best Amsterdam hotspots, new restaurants, weekend tips and travel inspiration in The Netherlands and beyond. Only Amsterdam tips? Then check out @yourlbb.amsterdam.
LOOKING FORWARD TO SUMMER! Are you also longing for warmer weather and secretly itching to book a weekend getaway on the Dutch coast ☀️? I certainly am! That’s why today I have a tip for 24 LOVELY BEACH HOTELS AND HOMES BY THE BETWEEN.
Save this post, or comment STRANDHOTEL and you will receive the complete list of all the gems directly via DM. Enjoy the weekend!
#beachhotels #housebythesea #netherlands #northhollandzeeland
𝟭𝟲 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂'𝗹𝗹 𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗰𝗼𝘀 🌮
Are you going classic with carne asada & salsa verde, or do you prefer something a little different, like birria for dipping or tempura mushroom with salsa negra!?
In this guide, you'll find my favorite taco hotspots in Amsterdam, including a must-try tip for every spot 🍴
📍 @masmais.taqueria (West)
🌮 Favorite: tuna tostada & sea bass ceviche
Perfect if you love Mexican food with a focus on seafood, great cocktails, and a laid-back cantina vibe. It feels like being in Mexico for a moment, right in Amsterdam West.
📍 @tacos.lasinaloense (Ten Katemarkt & Albert Cuypmarkt)
🌮 Favorite: create your own taco & go all in on salsa
Street-style tacos the way they're meant to be: handmade tortillas, slow-cooked steaks, and choosing your own spice level.
📍 @madre.amsterdam (Jordaan)
🌮 Favorite: birria quesatacos & tempura mushroom tacos
A plant-based Mexican restaurant that proves just how flavorful vegetarian food can be. Comfort food with a twist, and perfect for sharing.
📍 @bacalar.amsterdam (North)
🌮 Favorite: octopus taco
Still one of my favorites in Noord, with a great terrace too. Raw setting, huge on flavor. Weekend lunch here is my favorite! Definitely ask for the specials.
On 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.𝗺𝗲 you'll find the complete guide with the 16 best taco spots in Amsterdam.
Do you have a taco spot I really need to try?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Follow @yourlbb & @yourlbb.amsterdam for more Amsterdam restaurant guides, travel guides & the best things to do on the weekends.
𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟴, 𝟵 & 𝟭𝟬
This weekend is packed with markets, food events and lots of good excuses to spend the entire weekend out and about in Amsterdam.
From the free @oatly Matcha Strawberry Signature Drink and limited edition bag charm launch at @binibakery to Het Hapjesfestijn in Noord and the Creative Lab Summer Pop-Up at Klaproos & Café Soleil.
Plus, there are lots of fun Mother's Day ideas in this new guide, from brunches to the @ladress summer sale and 50% discount tickets for a concert at @concertgebouw.
Also very in the mood for the North Seafood BBQ at @nikotin.restobar
💬 Comment 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 and I'll send you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide with 76 hotspots, events and 19 kid-proof tips straight to your DMs.
What's your vibe this weekend… markets, matcha, a long lunch or trying a new hotspot?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Follow @yourlbb for the best Amsterdam hotspots, new restaurants, weekend tips and travel inspiration in The Netherlands and beyond. Only Amsterdam tips? Then check out @yourlbb.amsterdam.
#yourlbbcollab #oatly
Come with me to get breakfast in Taipei 🥢
Straight from the airport to this little place to taste soup dumplings and so much more! That's what I call a soft landing 😉 <3
In Taipei, you go to a Soy Milk Shop for breakfast. Warm soy milk to eat in a bowl, and steam baskets with the tastiest dumplings and baozi. You can really wake me up for this kind of breakfast. These local breakfast spots come in all shapes and sizes, from Michelin-recommended spots to hole-in-the-wall stalls.
Most soy milk shops open early (and sometimes even 24 hours a day), and these are the dishes you want to try:
🥄 Warm soy milk
🥢 Soup dumplings (you can often choose between pork and veggies)
🥢 Pork baozi
🥢 Youtiao (油條 - a kind of fried donut stick)
🥢 Youtiao (油條) w/ pork floss & rice
🥢 Turnip cake
🥢 Chives pancake
🥢 Scallion pancake
TIP: Sharing is a good idea to taste as much as possible, because the portions are (often) large.
You'll want to remember these soy milk shops for your future trip to Taipei:
📍Fuhang Soy Milk
📍Soy Milk Shop
📍Yong He Soya Milk King (Da'an)
📍Sihai Soy Milk
I am currently touring Taiwan, and you can also find all the tips in my Stories Highlight.
Have you ever been to Taiwan? I'm curious if you thought it was *that* amazing!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#taipeifood #taipeitravel #TaiwanWavesOfWonder #ExperienceTaiwan @taiwantoerisme #presstrip
{ In this Taiwan Travel Guide video, I share my favorite breakfast spots in Taipei for an authentic Taiwanese breakfast }
𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟯𝟬 + 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟭, 𝟮 & 𝟯
HELLO first weekend of May!
From a brand-new rooftop beach in Oost to vintage treasure hunting at IJ-Hallen, Italian market mornings, new restaurants and lots of May holiday plans for families.
Also on my radar this weekend:
📍 East Beach
📍 Café Pigalle
📍 Sassy's
📍 HORTA
📍 Bar Copa
📍 Amour Amer
📍 Café Felix
📍 Chez Chloé
And yes, market season is fully back. Sunday Market, IJ-Hallen, NoordOogst and Zi Camì Market… where to start?
💬 Comment 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 and I'll send you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide with 85 tips straight to your DMs.
What's your vibe this weekend… markets, terraces, new hotspots or something fun with the kids?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Follow @yourlbb for the best Amsterdam hotspots, new restaurants, weekend tips and travel inspiration in The Netherlands and beyond. Only Amsterdam tips? Then check out @yourlbb.amsterdam.
Just back from Catalonia and I thought: I'll share some tips right away.
During our road trip, we stayed two nights in the Ebro Delta. An incredibly fun stop for families and foodies, where there is plenty to do.
• A boat trip to the Musclarium is a must! Here you eat oysters and mussels straight from the farm, in the middle of the sea.
· Admire the flamingos and black ibises that can be found here all year round.
· Rice is grown in the Ebro Delta all year round. For paella, but Kensho also makes sake and miso from it! You can visit them during a tasting.
Cycling along the rice fields, canoeing on the Ebro River, and visiting various beaches. It was still a bit too cold right now, but there is plenty to do.
• The towns are very low-key and not that exciting, but you can find fantastic local food there. From the Michelin-awarded Les Moles* to local eateries like Vermuteria Bonmarisc and Lo Tinglado. We ate a lot of fish, but also anemone fritters (a first!).
Now back to work, and I’m going to create an extensive travel guide of this road trip through Catalonia, but you’ll want to save these tips for a future adventure.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
{ In this post, I share tips for the Ebro Delta in Spain (Delta de l'Ebre). More tips for Catalonia can be found at www.yourlittleblackbook.me }
HELLO WEEKEND!
A short note, but a very packed Amsterdam Weekend Guide online with 76 tips for Kingsday, Kingsnight, new restaurants, kidsproof May holiday activities and everything in between.
Comment WEEKEND and I'll send you the full guide in your DM.
Cheers from Spain, where I will celebrate with orange wine from Priorat ✌🏼🧡.
✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck
The most important things to do are done by the community through this Nederland and in Amsterdam?
The May holidays have begun, and that means: quality time with the kids. From creative workshops and fun playgrounds to new museums, kid-friendly festivals, and adventures in nature.
On 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗟𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸.𝗺𝗲, you will find two comprehensive guides with more than 50 tips! Believe me, you won't be bored anymore ;-).
Take all tips via the line in my bio. Have fun!
I'm curious: what do you have planned for this holiday?
PS: We are doing a road trip from Barcelona to Valencia this year and you can travel along via stories.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟭𝟲, 𝟭𝟳, 𝟭𝟴 & 𝟭𝟵
Your Amsterdam weekend, sorted. 🖤
Baby lambs, spring markets, new restaurant openings and more events not to miss, this week's Amsterdam Weekend Guide is packed.
💬 Comment 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 and I'll send you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide with 81 tips straight to your DMs.
Have fun making plans!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
| PS: Follow @yourlbb for the best Amsterdam hotspots, new restaurants, weekend tips and travel inspiration in the Netherlands and beyond. Only Amsterdam tips? Then check out @yourlbb.amsterdam.
PUUR YONNIE, an ode to Jonnie Boer.
Today I had the honor of being at @delibrijezwolle for the book launch of @jonnie_en_therese.
I spent the whole evening reading and flipping through the pages.
WHAT A BOOK.
What stories.
WHAT AN ODE.
Love, Nature, Pioneer, Fatherhood, Music, Jonnie's Foundation, Friendship, Suppliers, Local products, Relaxation, Entrepreneurship, Humor & The pure human being.
Everything passes by, beautifully written by @joel.broekaert.
With contributions from, among others, @nelsontanate, @rekkebus, @ronblaauwtje, @jorisbijdendijk, @sidney_schutte & @hvw043.
Thanks for the lovely afternoon @jonnie_en_therese 💚
PURE JONNIE,
From 14 April
at your local bookstore
(and online)
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
This is your ticket to Japan without taking a plane 🥢
@tewatashi.ams in De Pijp serves an authentic Edo-Mae Sushi Experience and is super consistent in their quality.
It's the place we keep going back to when we have something to celebrate <3.
In this video I'm sharing the 2 hour experience in 60 seconds.
Still dreaming about the buttery ika nigiri. 🤤
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
{ one of the best authentic Japanese restaurants in Amsterdam serving premium sushi omakase in De Pijp }
Stroll through the Muttrah district
The Old City is always a highlight not to be missed. Wander through the narrow alleys, explore the various souks, and admire the traditional dhow boats in the harbor. A visit to Muscat isn't complete without a visit to the Old City: the Muttrah district. In the souk, you can shop for the most beautiful souvenirs to take home and find influences from all over the world. And yes, as in every Eastern country, haggling is a must and is part of the game between buyer and seller.
© Al Jalali and Al Mirani Fort, Muttrah Corniche, Old Muscat // Experience Oman
You definitely want to visit these sights in Muscat
Muscat offers no shortage of culture. You'll find numerous impressive buildings, each with its own unique history and distinctive local architectural style. There are several iconic buildings to visit, from beautiful sand castles to forts and watchtowers. Interested in history and want to learn all about it during your visit? Several attractions offer audio tours or guided tours, for example.
Sultan Quaboos Grand Mosque
One of the most impressive buildings in Muscat is the Grand Mosque. It is also open to non-Muslims. Admire the 50-meter-high minarets, the beautiful decorations, and the impressive golden dome. Dress appropriately, and if you're a woman, bring a scarf for your hair.
Bait al Zubair Museum
Once a private residence, now a private museum belonging to the Zubair family. Since 1998, the most beautiful Omani cultural and historical artifacts dating back hundreds of years have been on display here. From art to jewelry and ancient swords, they'll transport you to the thrilling tales of Sinbad.
The Royal Opera House
The Royal Opera House is a must-see in Muscat, if only for its architecture. Built in the style of an Omani palace, it's the perfect venue for national and international music performances.
The National Museum
Opened in 2016, this is one of Muscat's newest attractions. The museum showcases the history and culture of Oman, and the building itself is a sight to behold. It's highly recommended to visit for a comprehensive understanding of the history of Oman and Muscat.
Sultan Quaboos Grand Mosque
Taste the local dishes
It's always fun to do when visiting a new country for the first time: eat at a local restaurant. Locals agree, there are a few dishes and local ingredients you absolutely want to try. See these dishes on the menu? Order them! Makboos (rice dish with chicken or vegetables, for example), Shuwa (a uniquely prepared meat dish), Meshkak (the local version of kebab, often made with meat), Mashuai (grilled kingfish with lemon sauce). Also delicious: the dates you often see sold on the street!
Kargeen Cafe, Al Bashair St., Muscat, Oman
Discover the beaches of Muscat
One of the most famous beaches near Muscat is A Qurum Beach. This beach is lined with luxury hotels and countless cafes and restaurants. It's also popular with locals for jogging, cycling, and walking. Understandably, the palm trees provide some shade, making it a pleasant place to relax. For example, at the end of the day to watch the sunset! Another beach popular with locals is Bandar Jissah, as this bay is only 15 kilometers from Muscat. It's especially lively on weekends, and you can take a boat along the coast.
Qurum Beach, Muscat
Eat fresh fish at the harbor
Muscat is truly a city for seafood lovers! Ask about the catch of the day and local preparations of the fresh fish. From freshly grilled fish to fragrant curries. Settle down at a restaurant near the marina and, after your meal, marvel at the enormous yachts moored here.
Muttrah Corniche, Muscat, Oman
Visit a Wadi near Muscat
A wadi is a natural oasis formed by streams of water in the middle of the desert. You can swim in most wadis, and these natural wonders nestled among the rocks are a must-see when traveling to Oman. Perfect for a picnic, for example! Imagine: emerald-colored water to cool off in, swaying date palms, and all without an entrance fee. These natural wonders are free to visit!
With Muscat as a base, you're in a great location to explore various oases. These wadis are located around Muscat and are easy to visit on a day trip: Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Al Arbaeen, Wadi Hoqain, and Wadi Al Shab. TIP: Keep in mind that swimming requires a dress code, which is sometimes clearly indicated on signs at the entrance.
Wadi in Oman
Go to Nizwa for a day
Anyone who's been to Oman agrees: the city of Nizwa is a must-see on any Oman bucket list. This walled city, founded sometime around the 7th century, feels like time has stood still. Beautiful old doors, the centuries-old Nizwa Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, restaurants where you can sip tea on oriental cushions, and shops where you can buy beautiful souvenirs, from pottery to silver jewelry. A visit is easily planned from Muscat, perhaps with an excursion; it's only a 1,5-hour drive. Ask your local guide to stop at a good viewpoint, because the view of the city with the impressive Al Hajar Mountains in the background is magical. Especially during golden hour!
Nizwa, Oman
Travel with respect
I always find it helpful to be well-informed about local customs and do's and don'ts when traveling, especially when I'm traveling solo and don't want to draw too much attention to myself. While you won't always notice this in hotels and beach resorts, (too) revealing clothing or shorts and skirts is considered inappropriate on the street. And what about alcohol? While it won't be served everywhere, local restaurants often serve the most delicious mocktails and fresh juices. Incidentally, most hotels and their restaurants do serve alcohol. So enjoying the sunset with a drink is also possible in Muscat!
Yourlbb hotel selection for Muscat
Muscat has no shortage of beautiful hotels. So, as I mentioned in the introduction, you'll definitely feel like you're in a fairytale from 1001 Nights. Because Muscat is located on the coast, you can perfectly combine a beach holiday with the city. A few gems to remember?
- Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz Carlton Hotel: This luxury hotel has a high WOW factor and is popular with foodies.
- Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa: known as one of the most family-friendly hotels.
- W Muscat: modern and trendy and perfect for couples.
- Mysk Al Mouj Hotel: one of the city's most beautiful boutique-style hotels.
- The Chedi: with a lovely swimming pool, but also a private beach.
© The Chedi
Have fun planning your trip to Oman and the enchanting city of Muscat! Find more travel tips for Oman on our website. experienceoman.omFor example, great tips for a tour through Oman!
Traditional souvenir from Oman
Nizwa Fort
Fresh dates
View over the corniche of Muttrah, Muscat, Oman
With love,
Anne
In collaboration with Experience Oman
Discover more tips in the
Oman Little Black Book
Click here
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