Oman Air to Muscat

Flying from the green of an English Summer into Muscat on Oman Air

The rain of a typical British Summer has kept trees in early summer leaf (except the Horse Chestnut which, where we live, has been badly affected by the new fungus which creates an Autumn brown off in early July).

English Fields
English Fields

On the ground the constant downpours have forced the birds of the garden under the creepers, rather than on their well-stocked bird-tables. Floods have again damaged peoples lives. Its has been a difficult summer for many – but travelling with Oman Air from Gatwick shows many clouds do have silver-linings and rain’s, of course, is the green mosaic of the sub-urban countryside. The other silver-lining was a very unexpected and great upgrade from very Economy – to unexpected and nice Business Class.

The flight into Muscat was moving off from its bay early and kindly they called the last 3 passengers by name; mine included, otherwise I would miss my treat! Fortunately, Gatwick is not Heathrow and a distance that was signed at 20 minutes actually was around 5.

The meal included Tamarind Sorbet; Tamarind by ‘Al Nabil’ is probably my favourite drink (its usually only available during Ramadhan unfortunately). This sorbet was tasty but could have had a little more sugar to hold it together and was on the verge of being a drink .

Oman Air Tamarind
Oman Air Tamarind

I chose Lamb Rack for the main course, which was generously garnished with thyme.

Oman Air Main Course
Oman Air Main Course

The flavour was excellent, though overcooked to my taste, Omanis would disagree as they expect well-cooked meat. It was quite tepid when served – the right temperature on airline meals must be a very difficult target to achieve especially with Oman Air’s leisurely service.

And finally the best part of the flight – landing ahead of schedule into a warm Muscat night – home 🙂

Author: Tony Walsh

Book author including the current Bradt guide to Oman