In November of last year, Margaret Acors flew to Oman for the first leg of a voyage in an Arabian dhow, and on Friday evening she gave an illustrated account of this adventurous journey.
The travellers touched down at Muscat, the capital city of Oman, which was captured by the Portuguese in the 17th century. The old forts built by the Portuguese to guard the city contrasted sharply with the modern Sultan's palace surrounded by beautifully kept lawns and colourful flower beds.
From Muscat, the group were taken along the coast to the port of Matrah where they were to board their dhow. Before leaving, they explored the city with its great mosque approached by courtyards of polished marble and enhanced by flower beds and green lawns. Notable was the carving and calligraphy on the building and the enormous Persian rug covering the floor of the prayer hall.
After boarding the dhow, the party sailed close to the dramatic, fjordic coastline, with the arid limestone mountains rising steeply on either side of the water. Nestling at the foot of the cliffs were small villages whose inhabitants reared goats and tended date plantations.
The group disembarked and spent some time exploring one of the villages with its narrow streets and mud and straw houses. They were told that the benevolent Sultan supplied the villagers with food, water and healthcare.
Returning to their dhow, the party sailed for Quasab, keeping close to the coastline with its colourful stratification of limestone rocks. On their way, the activities of a school of dolphins in the clear blue waters provided much entertainment.
At Quasab, the group disembarked and began their trek across the interior by a route through mountainous terrain, very arid but for the occasional tamarisk tree and small farms growing vegetables and herding goats. Here they came across 'lock houses' built into the mountainsides.
Eventually arriving at the north side of the peninsular and nearing the end of their journey, the group reached Dubai, a very modern city and in stark contrast to the remote villages they had recently seen.
After a short stay in Dubai, the travellers were taken to Abu Dhabi, from where they flew home.
Margaret's beautiful and knowledgeable commentary had given a most enjoyable evening. Warm applause from the audience showed their appreciation of this intrepid traveller.
This (Friday) evening, well-known photographer Chris Warren will be taking members on a tour of Europe. Non-members are welcome, admission £2. Starting at 8 pm in Church House, Upper Frog Street. Tea/coffee and biscuits afterwards.