Riding with the locals

I always intended to post snippets of life in Oman but have been hindered by a lack of broadband internet out there. This photo, taken back in May 2008 is of three local Omani boys who spend all day around the beach ferrying people to and from the islands of Sawadi. If you happen to be Omani, this trip will cost around 80p; non-Omanis around £20! I have learned enough Arabic phrases to charm my way to a better price - the young guy at the back of this photo (Ahmed) pockets 4 Rials for his trouble - and this boat takes us to a secluded island where my fiance and I get to snorkel in crystal blue waters with not a soul in site.