Why Oman is my Heart Country.

In 2000, my American guy and I traveled to the Arabian Gulf for the first time with our 11-month-old kiddo. This was an invitation to explore the possibility of working with cross-cultural youth in the Sultanate of Oman.

I can still remember the Gulf Air flight where we were seated in the last row of the non-smoking section, right in front of all those who were smoking! As a new Mum, I was shocked at all the smoke that drifted our way and that our little girl was breathing in yet mesmerized by the scent of incense and perfume trying to overcome the smoke. It was also the loudest flight I had ever been on. There were enthusiastic Arab ladies switching seats because it was haram (shameful) to sit next to a male who was not their husband. Chaos ensued, and my introduction to the beautiful Arab world began, and I loved it!

When I arrived in Muscat, there was just something old-world and other about the place. It was as if time had stood still, and I got a glimpse, literally, into another world.

From the moment our feet touched Arabian sand, I knew our lives would never be the same again. The unique sights, sounds, smells, and tastes captured my heart. 

It was there my lifelong love of shawarma began!

A sandwich of sliced char-grilled lamb or chicken, french fries, and garlic sauce or tahini wrapped in pita bread.

 The smell of frankincense, the warmth of my toes in the Arabian Sea, the sound of the Call to Prayer, and the view of palm trees swaying in the blistering heat are something I will never forget! I knew that this would be the place we would call home one day because this was where we belonged!