Oman

Oman is the jewel in the Arabian crown. Well established as a top class destination and only a short flight from the UK. Muscat, the capital boasts world class hotels from the sumptuous Al Bustan, with its cavernous atrium to the Chedi, a paradise for those looking to escape from it all. Explore the Souk in Mutrah, the city’s old quarter, just as the light is fading and the city is coming alive. The sights, sounds and smells of the endless alleyways stir the exotic senses of Arabia, where it seems possible to buy anything.

Ancient Portuguese forts dominate the bay from there positions over looking the Sultans Palace. From there it is a gentle stroll to the Bait Al Zubair, a fine museum exhibiting the cultural history of Oman. In Seeb another quarter of the city the grand Mosque has been built. It boasts amongst other things that it houses the largest carpet and chandelier in the world as well as being completely bedecked inside by Italian marble, it really is worth the visit.

Outside of the capital you are treated to some of most spectacular scenery in Arabia. Looming large over Muscat and running parallel to the coastline are the Hajar Mountains, laced with wadis, gorges, jagged peaks and hidden villages, they are a walkers paradise.

Only 2 hours inland is the charismatic town Nizwa. The former capital is a great place to base yourself to explore the town itself with its famous cylindrical fort and Friday animal market, the Mountains, Al Hotta Caves and the UNESCO protected tombs at Bat. Deeper into the interior the wonderful Oases of Bahla and Jebrin offer scenic excursions the chance to visit local earthenware workshops and perhaps the best fort in the country at Jebrin.

In the south-eastern corner of the country Sur is the main town and the home of the traditional Dhow builders and the best place to base yourself to experience the turtle beaches of Ras Al Hadd.

The sands of Wahiba are also a short drive from Sur but it is possible to reach them from Muscat. At 180km by 80km the sands are unique, demonstrated through there huge array of flora and fauna. There are some well-sited desert camps in the sands and to reach them is an adventure in itself through massive sand dunes, in areas reaching 200metres in heights.