Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe?

Oman is designated by the U.S State Department as having the same level of safety as the U.S, Canada and Australia for example. In fact, since there has never been any terrorist activity in Oman and there has never been any threat of it, Oman is presently safer than almost any country.

You can check at no cost the current situation online at www.travel.state.gov. This site considers all aspects of safety in each country. The Sultanate of Oman is a highly developed, sophisticated country that retains pride in its traditional culture and values. Crime rates are much lower than in most western cities.

Are “Westerners” and Christians welcome in Oman?

The people of Oman have always accepted those of other faiths without reservation. In the past the country has even hosted the Israeli prime minister and has steered a very moderate political path. This is illustrated by the fact that the ruler of Oman, Sultan Qaboos, allocated land in the capital, Muscat, specifically for churches of non-Muslim faiths. Although proselyting is prohibited, expatriate members of the Church live and work in the country without any concerns. As an American you will feel very welcome and at home.

Is Oman clean?

Visitors to Oman are usually surprised to discover that the country and its cities are very clean and unpolluted . Water can be safely drunk anywhere in Oman and there are no health requirements to enter the country.

What are the dress standards?

Temple-standard dress is all that is required of both men and women; bathing suits and shorts should only be worn at hotel pools. Women should also bring with them a scarf for when we visit the Grand Mosque during our tour of Muscat – an interesting experience that surprises most visitors.

Will I find language difficulties?

Everyone that we deal with during the tour speaks English except for some of the local people we may meet in remote areas. We will provide you with some basic Arabic phrases and of course your guides will always be there to assist you at any time.

Where will we be staying?

We use first-class hotels that embody some local ambience, such as the iconic 7 Arches hotel in Jerusalem, the al-Majan hotel in Muscat and the Arabian Sea Villas in Salalah.

What type of food will I encounter in Oman?

All food in Oman is of the highest standard. Most meals will be eaten at our hotels which offer all the cuisines you will be familiar with. Our picnic lunches will offer a variety of well-prepared food and drink. We carry extra water and soft drinks at all times when traveling.

How physically challenging is the tour?

Anyone of at least moderate health will have no difficulties. People in their late-80’s and people with visual and walking impediments have experienced no difficulties on previous tours. Coach and 4WD transportation takes us to all the sites and there are no long walks required.

What is the surcharge if I am traveling alone?

The tour price is based upon two people sharing a room throughout. If you wish, we will attempt to find another person for you to share with. However, if you have the room to yourself a surcharge of $560 is applicable.

Why do you think Nephi’s “Bountiful” is in Oman?

The southern province of Dhofar in Oman has the only locations that can possibly be considered as the place that Lehi’s group named Bountiful.

Since exploration of the entire Arabian coastline was completed in 1992, Latter Day Saints can be assured that the location of this unique place must lie in Dhofar. However, neither Warren Aston nor Bountiful Tours has ever claimed that any particular location in Oman is the place. Instead, we will visit the only two locales that have been proposed by scholars as candidates and allow you to evaluate them according to Nephi’s very detailed and specific description of the place, allowing you to make up your own mind.

Please contact us with any other questions or concerns not covered on the web site.