Cultural and traditional tours

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“Writing is a microbe and writing a book is a dream come true for me,” says Maria Dekeersmaeker, a Belgian author and journalist known for her extensive writings on Oman. Medals for Change is her fifth book. Maria shares her motivations, inspirations and insights with the Observer

What was your initial motivation for travelling to Oman?

In 2007-2008, I travelled to Oman as a journalist writing for European media. A year later, I returned to Oman with a rich experience and a desire to understand the country’s culture and society more deeply. These experiences fuelled my passion to provide readers with richer insights, which have been reflected in my subsequent articles and my blog, mariastories.com, as well as my latest book, Medals for Change.

You wrote extensively about Dhofar in your books The DNA of Sarala, Dhofar, and The Treasure Box of Sarala-Dhofar. What inspired you to focus so intensively on this particular region?

I decided to focus on Dhofar, Oman’s largest province, because of a gap in the existing literature. While many guidebooks focus on Muscat and northern Oman, I found that there were fewer resources dedicated to the south. My two-year research journey was designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the region, covering its society, nature, economy, and traditions. The resulting work offers visitors a wide variety of topics and experiences that enhance their exploration of Oman.

The connections you make with locals definitely leave their mark on your writing. Can you share how these relationships influence your narratives?

My work is deeply influenced by the friendships and trust I build with local people. Through patient and open communication, I gather insights that allow me to add layers to my stories and portraits, such as Whisper of Oman, a book I still cherish.

In The Guardians, you refer to archaeological sites as “spiritual shrines.” What does this mean?

“Spiritual sites” emphasize the life and coexistence of people and the environment. Many of these sites are located on major trade routes where products, services, philosophies and beliefs were exchanged. By treating archaeological sites as spiritual sites, you can spiritually return museum objects to their original environment and bring them to life.

Congratulations on the recent publication of Medals for Transformation. Oman. New Dimensions and New Perspectives! Can you share some of the insights readers can expect to discover in the book?

This book delves into Oman’s fascinating transformation through the lens of the Royal Order. It is more than just a historical account; its narrative interweaves society’s internal developments with external changes, thereby reflecting Oman’s own path. It invites us to explore not only the story of the country, but also the personal transformations that ultimately resonate within all of us.

What final conclusion do you hope readers will take away from your article about Oman?

I hope to spark curiosity and inspire exploration. My work is a gateway to understanding and appreciation, inviting readers to immerse themselves in Oman’s rich culture, history and natural beauty. As echoed by the feedback on mariastories.com. My journey in Oman encompasses a profound exploration of culture, heritage and human connection – a narrative that continues to fascinate and inspire audiences around the world.

Photo by Maria Dekeersmaeker