‘A life-enriching experience that left an indelible mark on my heart’

During my daily commute to the office, I found myself often contemplating the various 4x4 drive options – 4H, 4L – in my vehicle, curious about when and how they might come into play. This curiosity sparked a newfound interest in off-road exploration, and one name that consistently surfaced in conversations with fellow enthusiasts was the Guide Oman Team (3R).

I embarked on my first expedition to Sharqiyah Sands in Bidyah with the Guide Oman Team (3R), and from that point on, I was hooked. Guide Oman Team (3R) played a pivotal role in helping me tick off several items from my bucket list, including a visit to Ramlat Jadilah, the world’s tallest sand dune, and Bar Al Hikman, famous for its pristine coastlines with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

The desert landscape offers a unique sense of serenity. Walking on the sand feels like a natural pedicure, and as we relaxed amidst the dunes, our gaze was drawn to the celestial beauty of the countless stars, constellations, and the radiant moon above. The soft sand beneath us was as comfortable as a mattress, and the vast sky served as an exquisite canopy.

The adventure begins with a thorough morning briefing, complete with morning coffee or tea and a hearty breakfast. This briefing covers essential topics such as tire deflation, distinguishing between hard and soft sand, understanding the impact of gravity, decoding the different 4-wheel drive options, deciphering the meanings of 4H and 4L, and crucial safety instructions.

Armed with this knowledge, we set off on our desert expedition. It was an opportunity to put the tips and techniques into practice.

In the early stages of our journey, we encountered challenges that seemed daunting. However, the Guide Oman Team (3R) swiftly came to our aid, providing invaluable guidance and support. Their expertise and presence made overcoming these obstacles possible. It’s like the old saying: “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” Through multiple trips with their guidance, we gained the knowledge and skills needed to navigate through obstacles independently.

The enchanting desert imparted invaluable life lessons to us:

Be prepared for ups and downs: Desert driving is vastly different from regular road driving. The unpredictable terrain can throw various challenges your way, from steep descents to challenging uphill climbs. Maintaining focus and readiness is crucial to navigate life’s highs and lows safely.

Keep the momentum going: When driving on sandy terrain, especially loose sand, maintaining forward motion is key to avoiding getting stuck. Slowing down or stopping can lead to your tires sinking gradually into the sand, potentially leaving you immobilised.

Respect the forces: Dealing with vehicle drifting in desert conditions is challenging. It’s crucial to respect both your vehicle’s engine and the force of gravity acting upon it. Disregarding either of these forces can lead to serious consequences. Embrace challenges with a smile and compassion: The Guide Oman Team (3R) handles challenges with remarkable ease, as if they’re enjoying a delightful treat. Their incredible skills and techniques are truly impressive. What’s most inspiring is their ability to face challenges with genuine smiles on their faces.

Never give up: Sometimes, daunting sand dunes, soft sandy terrain, sharp turns, and narrow passageways may make you doubt your abilities. However, with determination, you can often overcome these challenges, boosting your self-confidence and reinforcing the importance of perseverance.

No challenge is too big when you apply the right techniques and skills. Desert driving engages all your senses, creating a meditative experience with a hint of adrenaline rush.

In the end, my journey with the Guide Oman Team (3R) in Sharqiyah Sands was not just an adventure; it was a life-enriching experience that left an indelible mark on my heart.