population: 1.4 million

extension: 3,797 square kilometers

Museums

Great! If you're in Muscat and interested in museums, one great place to visit is the Bait Al Zubair Museum. It features exhibits on Omani history, art, and culture, including traditional costumes, weapons, jewelry, and more. Another option is the National Museum of Oman, which houses a wide range of exhibits covering Oman's natural history, archaeology, and cultural heritage. If you're looking for similar places nearby, you might also check out the Ghalya's Museum of Modern Art or the Omani French Museum in nearby Muttrah.

Food

Sure! Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Muscat according to locals include:

1. Shuwa: Slow-cooked meat (usually lamb or goat) that's marinated in a blend of spices and then wrapped in banana leaves and buried underground to cook for several hours.

2. Omani halwa: A sweet gelatinous dessert made with sugar, saffron, cardamom, rose water, and sometimes nuts or coconut.

3. Machboos: Spiced rice dish often made with chicken, fish, or shrimp, and served with a side of tomato sauce.

4. Harees: A porridge-like dish made from ground wheat and meat (usually lamb or chicken) that's cooked together until creamy.

5. Omani khubz: A type of flatbread made with whole wheat flour and cooked over an open flame.

6. Maqbous: Similar to machboos but made with a different blend of spices and often featuring dried lemons.

7. Luqaimat: Deep-fried dough balls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, then drizzled with sweet syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

These are just a few examples of the delicious cuisine you can find in Muscat, Oman.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that locals like to do in Muscat:

1. Visit the Muttrah Souq: The souq is a bustling marketplace where you can find everything from traditional Omani handicrafts to spices, clothes, and jewelry.

2. Explore the beaches: Muscat is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Qurum Beach or Al Bustan Beach. Locals often enjoy spending time swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking on the shores.

3. Hiking: Oman has some stunning natural landscapes, and Muscat is no exception. There are many hiking trails around the city that locals love to explore, such as Wadi Shab or Jebel Akhdar.

4. Dolphin watching: Take a boat tour and spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

5. Visit the Royal Opera House: Muscat's iconic opera house hosts world-class performances and concerts throughout the year, drawing locals and tourists alike.

6. Traditional Omani food: Try some of the local cuisine, like shuwa (slow-cooked lamb) or machboos (spiced rice with meat or seafood). Check out local restaurants like Bait Al Luban or Kargeen Cafe.

7. Visit forts and castles: Oman is home to many historic forts and castles, which offer a glimpse into the country's rich history. In Muscat, be sure to visit Al Jalali Fort or Al Mirani Fort.