Out to sea are the Kuria Muria Islands. The Batinah coast is inhabited by descendants of Asian merchants, Baluchi traders and other Arab nationals, who are more aware of the outside world than the tribesmen of the interior and mountains. Along the coast at Muscat and Matrah, Arab traditions remain strong despite increasing Western influence. Arabic and English. Ibadi Muslim, with Sunni and Shia Muslim and Hindu minorities.
Some hotels provide facilities.
In case of difficulty, book calls through the international operator. Airmail to Western Europe takes up to two weeks. English-language newspapers include The Times of Oman and The Oman Daily Observer. From time to time these change. See the contents for more information.