To find treasures at Muscat's Muttrah Souk

The traditional market is Muttrah's biggest draw for visitors. Although the structure was restored in the 1970s, this is one of the Arab peninsula's oldest souks. To enhance authenticity, a palm frond roof was recently built. Because visitors are in little supply, this is mostly a market for locals. Shopkeepers will try to entice interested guests, although not as forcefully as in souks in more popular locales.

Muttrah Souk in Muscat is a maze of economic activity. Ceramics, jewelry, and camel-themed souvenirs may be found here. Butter-soft llama wool pashminas, leatherware, and gorgeous gold jewelry are the greatest bargains. Most booths allow trading, but jewelry has little wriggle space (which is sold by weight). If you're new at haggling, make an offer that's 40-50 percent of the vendor's initial price and seek to meet somewhere in the middle.

It's a joy merely to meander through the maze of dark streets. The Muttrah souk is divided into many areas, including a gold and silver souk with rows of stores stacked high with modern and antique jewelry, as well as sections devoted to domestic products, shoes and garments, and fragrances and spices. Across the street from the souk is the fish market, which is located near the harbor and where fresh fish is landed every morning.