When did you visit Xamar? Was it back in 2010-2012? A couple of my friends was there back then and they say that it's a big difference from now alxamdullilah.
I went in 2014 summer during Ramadan time. Don't let my posts discourage you, Xamar is absolutely beautiful and its absolutely worth the visit and
the money. You definitely have to visit the beaches, i also was surprised at how beautiful the Isbahaysiga Mosque, it looked like a castle. Also just walking around the towns feels surreal because there is barely any pavement its mostly sand. Just don't be so trusting of people and always be suspicious of anything weird you notice. Also avoid going out at night as most crimes are committed at night time.