grunty123

There's an opportunity for us to go to Oman with my husband's job, but we really don't know anything much about the place at all. Any info. would be great, particularly whether it's good for families, which schools are good, if it's expensive to live in, names of rental websites to look for accommodation, nice areas to live. Also, we're a bit concerned about the heat - does everyone just stay indoors for months on end at the height of summer?! Any info. most appreciated. Thanks!

Desert Dweller

I'll do the best I can as I don't live there anymore but family does.
1. Houses: there are some really nice places depending on your budget.
2. Popular neighbourhoods: The demographic has changed a bit since I left but we used to live in Qurm and Medinat Qaboos after that, both are developed places with many an expat. Al Khuwair is also popular.
3. Used cars: There are loads of these around from a basic Land Rover to a bling Lexus!
4. The socail life is dependent on what you like. If you're after nightclubs you're in the wrong place. if you like socialising with other like minded people going camping, doing some sports (golf, squash, running, cycling, diving etc) you'll love it. There are great restaurants also.
5. Safety: There is nowhere I have ever felt safer, though I am 6ft tall and 100kg so it may be better if I tell you my wife always felt safe!
6. Kids love it- beaches, outdoors, safe, big house....
7. Food: There is nothing we ever lacked- you can buy booze, pork etc in the western supermarkets. Restaurants range from great local and indian to truly top end international.
8. Ramadan is a great time- there is a lot going on and as a westerner you are given a lot of leeway.
9. The schools are of a very high standard- though I have to say that as my Mother in Law teaches in one!
10. My wife's family have lived there for almost 20 years as have many of their friends. I was there for seven and have many friends still there from when I left 7 years ago- of my age who have gone on to get married and have kids there.
11. Heat: It's bloody hot- no doubt about it. BUT- you will find that you spend much of your life in air conditioning and if you go outside are prepared. Most families get out of town (often leaving fathers there alone!) but the ones who do tend to organise a lot of indoor activities. Saying that we still went to the beach and went camping- we just took lots of water and psyched ourselves up that we would be hot. It's a great, great country and close to Dubai if you want to visit the 'big city'!

Hope that helps!

W10

Omanis are far more down to earth than a lot of other Gulf arabs as well.

Awineor2

Hi Just read you email re Oman Jan 2005!!!!!
Did you ever get there and if so, what is it like? Ironically we are in Perth WA and moving out there in 2 months time with my husbands job, would love to hear from you if you get this message. Thanks