THE ANSWER IS ….OMAN
A little-known corner of the Arabian Gulf, the Sultanate of Oman is truly fit for a king. Rugged mountains and desert landscapes blend with golden beaches and turquoise waters. Forts, towers and archaeological treasures tell the tale of it’s fascinating history in contrast with verdant parks, spectacular diving and fascinating wildlife. With it’s unique terrain and distinctive culture, prepare to be amazed!
BEACHES: Clean and beautiful, the best beaches in Muscat are Qurum and Al-Bustan, offering long stretches of golden sand. With 1700 km of coastline, there are numerous superb snorkelling and diving opportunities.
SPORTS: Oman provides the perfect terrain for outdoor adventure to include rock climbing, hiking, caving, camel racing and 4×4 off roading. Dolphin and whale spotting are also popular tourist attractions.
LOCAL TASTES: Chicken, fish and mutton are regularly used in soups, salads, kebabs and curries. Oman’s favourite treat is Halwa, a sticky, sweet jelly-like substance made from brown sugar, eggs, honey and spices.
EVENING FLAVOUR: Most of Muscat’s 5 star hotels have bars and nightclubs, often with live shows. Or for more sedate night out, watch turtles nesting on the beach at Ras-al-Jinz (September – November is regarded as the best time).
BEST BUYS: From shopping malls to traditional souks, Oman offers a superb shopping experience. For a memorable souvenir, take home handicrafts and woodcarvings, dates and spices, silver jewellery and perfume.
LIVE THE EXPERIENCE: Admire latticed buildings and mosques along Mutrah Corniche. Glimpse the Sultan’s Palace and majestic forts Al-Jalali and Al-Mirani, guarding the entrance to the harbour. Visit the spectacular Grand Mosque, a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos. Relax on a sunset dhow cruise in Muscat, take a desert safari or head south to the beaches of Salalah.
WHEN TO GO: November to mid-March, when the air is slightly cooler!
WHERE TO STAY: We at Select Representation don’t actually represent any hotels in Oman, but can say from our own personal experience that you really can’t go wrong with the following: The Chedi, Al Bustan Palace and Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa.
GMT: + 4 hours
CURRENCY: Omani Rial
As mentioned earlier we don’t currently look after any hotels or ground service agents in the Middle East. However, in the past decade there has been a big growth in travellers routing via the UAE, Qatar or Oman to get to/ from Asia. From our point of view, Oman is the best option to combine with for a pre or post stay in Asia. It has an abundance of history and culture, amazing scenery and wildlife and is not as man-made in appearance as it’s ‘rivals’! Oman wins hands down every time.
Written by Jonathan Wilkins from Select Representation, who are sales & marketing experts for the travel industry.