Day 83 at sea; March 29, 2011
We hadn’t booked a tour here even though our tablemate, Barbara, insisted we couldn’t miss seeing Job’s tomb. The day we docked I had planned to spend the day writing. However, a friend came up and asked if I wanted to go with her as her hubby was not feeling well. Of course, I said.
The countryside was arid and not to interesting, but as we headed inland, I was surprised by how high the mountains actually were. They were dry, but lovely and apparently very green and fertile when the monsoons come.
We saw boswellia trees which produce frankincense—one of their major exports. This area and a small area in N. Africa are the only places these trees grow naturally. The frankincense comes from the bark, like sap. We saw lots of camels along the road roaming free. Beautiful vistas greeted us as we made our way through the mountains and eventually to Job’s tomb. So, yes, I did get to see it. Is it really Job’s tomb? And is the giant footprint encased in cement for real? I’m not convinced—especially not about the footprint. Just how does one preserve a footprint for that long. But, the site was lovely. It sits at the top of the hill and is a mosque and mausoleum and one must dress conservatively—and women must cover their heads arms and legs.
When impressed me most was the city itself. A very large area in town is dedicated to growing bananas and coconuts. Many fruit stands lined the road and much of the fruit is exported. Amazing to see all that green in the middle of town.
We went to a square where one of three of the Sultan’s Palaces, a gorgeous beach and a large souk were all within two minutes walk. We shopped—lots of clothing, perfume and incense. The beach—white sands and turquoise water made us wish we could stay for a while. But alas, the bus awaited and we had to say goodbye to Salalah.
Each day here in Arabia we had temperatures in the 90s so coming back home to the elegant and beautiful Amsterdam and the pool is a joy.
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