Perfect day in Muscat

We are not leaving Muscat until sunset. This morning the sunrise was wonderful and we set off early on a fascinating excursion to find out more about this breathtakingly beautiful city.

Past the brand new Opera House (there's an idea for a future adventure), along spotless street after street through this sparkling modern city.

First stop - the Grand Mosque, the Sultan Qaboos Mosque.

The now second largest silk carpet in the world, an enormous Swarovski crystal chandelier and an atmosphere of peace and reverence that put several of us in mind of the Taj Mahal.

Strict rules. No hair to show from beneath our headscarves. Nothing to show above the ankle or wrist. Guards to send people back if the material was too transparent. We had been warned. Shoes to be removed.

But an unforgettable experience.

Next stop the Souk in the Muttrah area (we strolled there yesterday). And then on to a fabulous museum, with a photographic exhibition. (I didn't like to pass the exhibits off as my own, although I was tempted.

Finally to the Sultan's palace. Beautiful too.

Spoilt for choice for a blip.

But these two traditional but young Omani girls gave a flavour of our day.

On to the United Arab Emirates this evening. But I hope I can return to Oman