An Exmouth resident has shared his unique experiences of teaching in Oman.

David Smith, 50, who took early retirement after 30 years as a senior lecturer in modern languages at Plymouth University, recounted his tales at the East Devon Luncheon Club meeting.

An advertisement for a teaching job in Muscat caught his eye, and he was interviewed by the Prince of Oman himself at the embassy, who offered him the job after just 10 minutes.

Mr Smith, a resident of Exmouth, provided a brief history of Oman, highlighting the changes brought about by Sultan Qaboos bin Said in 1970.

The Sultan, a former Oxford University and Sandhurst student, transformed Oman from a backward country to a prosperous nation with improved roads and eradicated malaria.

Women gained access to education, the right to vote, and the ability to drive.

Foreigners, including Mr Smith, could enjoy alcohol under licence.

Mr Smith's Canadian neighbour, who was teetotal, allowed Mr Smith to use his allowance.

Mr Smith noted that his students were well-motivated.

Despite being advised not to discuss politics or religion, these topics often cropped up in lessons.

He also spoke about the role of Mark Thatcher in building accommodation on the campus and the general opulence of Oman.

However, Mr Smith's own flat was "tatty."

He had to deal with a nuisance of hens and a cockerel outside his window, which were eventually dealt with by the local police.

Despite these minor inconveniences, Mr Smith painted a picture of Oman as a polite and peaceful country worth visiting.

He praised the excellent hotels and assured that the practice of taking mugshots and fingerprints on arrival is becoming more common elsewhere.

Mr Smith’s talk was part of the monthly East Devon Luncheon Club meeting held on November 19 at the Victoria Hotel in Sidmouth.

As the guest speaker, Mr Smith provided an insider's view of life and education in Oman, offering a unique perspective on this Middle Eastern country.