HOW about a bestselling travel guide on Oman written by a Korean for Koreans planning to explore the hidden treasures of this peaceful Arab nation?
Hyeji Kim, a flight attendant turned aspiring travel writer, fell in love with Oman during her time with Oman Air as its cabin crew. Captivated by the country’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality, she now dreams of creating a comprehensive travel guide specifically for Korean tourists.
Her goal is to highlight the hidden gems of Oman, from the sweeping dunes of Rimal Al Sharqiya to the lush greenery of Salalah during khareef season.
Kim’s journey with Oman began during her layovers and time off, where she ventured into the country’s serene landscapes and forged connections with its welcoming people. “Omani hospitality is unlike anything I’ve experienced before,” she recalls.
“Locals would invite me into their homes, offering Omani coffee, Kahwa, and dates. They made me feel at home.”
One of her most cherished memories is witnessing a baby turtle hatch at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, an experience she describes as “magical” and profoundly moving. As she explored Wadi Shab’s crystal-clear pools, the vibrant Nizwa Souq, and the desert’s golden expanse, her appreciation for Oman’s natural beauty deepened.
Now based in Hong Kong, Kim realised there wasn’t a single comprehensive Korean guidebook about Oman. “It’s such a stunning place, yet underexplored by Korean tourists. I want to change that,” she explains.
Her dream is to create a travel guide that not only showcases Oman’s breathtaking landscapes, but also offers practical advice for Korean travellers, from driving tips to insights into local customs.
Kim’s love for Oman has driven her to pitch the idea of a guidebook to Korean publishers. “I thought, ‘Why isn’t there a guide for Koreans travelling to Oman?’ I wanted to fill that gap,” she says.
Although her initial attempts were met with silence, she remains undeterred. “There’s still so much potential,” she adds. “I believe Koreans would fall in love with Oman if they knew how beautiful and welcoming it is.”
Even after leaving Oman in 2020 after 3 years, Kim carries a piece of the country with her wherever she goes.
She fondly remembers the slow-paced, peaceful life in Oman, a stark contrast to the bustling environments of South Korea and Hong Kong. “In Oman, I could just sit by the beach with a cup of karak tea, savouring the moment,” she reflects.
During her time in Oman, Kim also learned about the cultural nuances, such as pouring Kahwa. “In Korea, we fill cups to the brim, but Omani coffee is poured just one-third full. It’s a custom that I now explain to non-Omani passengers,” she says, reflecting on the cultural exchange that enriched her time as a flight attendant.
Kim, originally from Icheon, hopes to return to Oman someday, reconnect with old friends and continue her travel-writing journey. With her ongoing studies in tourism, she envisions crafting the ultimate road trip guide for Korean travellers, helping them navigate and appreciate Oman’s hidden wonders.
“Oman is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered,” Kim says with a smile. “And I want to be the one to introduce it to my fellow Koreans.”
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