Al Bustan Palace

I enjoyed taking up the invitation by the management of Al Bustan Palace to join them for the meal which breaks the daily fast ‘Iftar’. In a special tent overlooking the sea we enjoyed an Arabic themed meal with, for those who smoke’ a Shisha Tent (Hubbly Bubbly/Water Pipe/Hookah) next door.

Al Bustan Iftar Buffet

As a contrast in Muttrah this is the Iftar of a local community which of course is also open to guests.

Iftar in Muttrah

Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

It was good to meet up with Kim Tan, Director of Business Development at the Shangri-la,  after his recent business trip to Moscow. Apart from discussing how our own business with the hotel could improve it was also nice to learn how Oman is focusing on the ‘Brics’ countries for its inbound tourism.

Kim Tan of Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

Later

TEDxMuscat at the Millennium Resort Mussanah

The 2012 TEDxMuscat was held in the Millennium Hotel so after a drive from Muscat it was great to get a nice cold drink – and snacks. Later TEDx organised a buffet and as usual at the Millennium it was excellent – Chinese style.

Oman does seem to be trying to develop a workforce who will be able to thrive in the new economy of today’s world. So it seemed that the objectives of the day were to illustrate the power of creative thought, endeavour and importantly provide role models for the future entrepreneurs of Oman.

TEDxMuscat

Dr Abdullah Al-Zakwani the Executive Director of Industrial Innovation Centre of Oman set the tone by

Astana Philharmonic Orchestra from Kazakhstan

Al Bustans concert theatre was the venue for the Astana Philharmonic Orchestra where I watched an evening concert of Kazakh music and dance.

A Kazakh celebration dance

Arab Tourism Capital 2012 is Muscat

Arab tourism ministers, at a meeting in Jordan chose Muscat as the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2012.

Rainbow over Muscat

I wonder what events are going to start from Jan 1st.