 |
| By Real Distan (Flickr: Oasis in Gobi Desert, (c) not mine!) [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons |
Deserts are arid, sandy wastes spread across all five continents and known for one thing - the absence of water. Yet no desert is completely barren. Even the largest desert such as the Sahara, have tiny (relative to the size of the desert) spots where surface water is found, enough to sustain human life, animals and vegetation.
Those who have never been to a desert have heard of two fascinating features - oasis and mirage. Oases have enabled journeys in the desert since ancient times and some of the largest oasis, supplied by underground sources and occasional rainfall, have been around for thousands of years.
Contrary to general perception, not all oases are small pools of water with a couple of swaying palms at the side. The largest oases are magnificent sights even against the grandeur of the deserts. Check out some of the most beautiful oases across the world at Smashing Lists.