It was great to escape the heat of Muscat and spend time in the cooler climate of Jebel Akhdar. During spring the heady fragrance of Damask roses wafts over the villages as the petals are collected as the material for the regions well known Rose Water.

Later in a warm and humid Muscat I enjoyed the reception celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s birthday at the British Ambassadors, Dr. Noel Guckian, residence in Muscat. We were entertained by the Royal Air Force of Oman band and the Muscat Singers.