Oman is a country steeped in culture and religion and only one of two countries ruled by a sultan, the other being Brunei. The capital Muscat is surrounded by desert and mountains, with the tallest building - the luxurious 5* Sheraton Oman Hotel with 16 floors. As well as home to two 16th-century Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Mirani, which loom over Muscat Harbor. Here's how you can experience the full-bodied coffee, enjoy one or more than 250 indigenous variety of date and emerge yourself in a wadi - an Arabian oasis.
The land of Frankincense, pre-historic human habitation dates more than 100,000 years in Oman. Today Oman is one of the top ten safest countries in the world, friendly hospitality next to none other, outdoor experiences to enjoy such as scuba diving and becoming popular for golf. As well as impeccable customer service you can be guaranteed your safe with high hygiene standards, and no queues to visit the historic landmarks.
Reaching Oman
Oman can be easily reached with the national airline - Oman Air, taking 8 hours on a direct flight from London or 7 hours 20 minutes from Manchester. From October till April there is also a scheduled flight with British Airways.
The other option is visiting by cruise. Extend your vacation by incorporating a stay and sail at the departing port. I was very lucky to experience a Royal Caribbean cruise onboard Legend of the Seas, sailing from Dubai into the Oman capital of Muscat. A bonus, if visiting by cruise and taking an organised shore excursion you do not need to apply for a visa (please check with your travel agent/cruise company as this may change).
Visa
There are two visa options for residents of the UK (correct at time of publishing, please do check for latest travel updates and visa requirements), one is via online or you can also queue for the visa on arrival at the award-winning Muscat International Airport. The visa cannot be issued more than 30 days prior to arrival and can be taken for 10 days or less ($15USD) or between 10 - 30 days ($60USD).
Oman Day Trip
If arriving by cruise ship you will sail into the old part of Muscat - Muttrah, where there will be shuttles running to take you outside of the port area. From here you can enjoy the traditional architecture, winding alleys of the souq, historic forts and the Sultan's Palace.
There are also excursions available to the Grand Mosque, Dolphin Watching Cruise, Wadi Shab and the Bimah Sinkhole.
Turtle, Oman ©Elite Travel & Tourism
The Chedi, Muscat
Twenty minutes by car from the airport, you will arrive at the award-winning 5* luxury resort - The Chedi. With views to the Al Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman. Sit and relax in the twenty-one acre landscaped garden or by the longest pool in Arabia - 103-metre Long Pool.
Don't miss The Beach Restaurant with its expansive terrace, located on a private beach. One of the most romantic and beautiful spots with panoramic views out over the Gulf of Oman.
Camping
For those looking for an adventure, have you considered camping or in this case glamping? Elite Travel & tourism provide luxury camping for those wanting to explore the more remote breathtaking areas of Oman. The tents are fully furnished each with its own bathroom.
Included is freshly prepared cooked meals with local flavours and influences.
The Wahiba Sands, Oman ©Elite Travel & Tourism
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort
Escape to one of the highest luxury resorts in the world - Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar 5* Resort.
Located on top of the Green Mountain two hours drive out of Muscat. Surrounded by dramatic canyon views at an elevation of 2,980m (9,780 ft).
Don't miss the opportunity to Stargaze and dine at the canyon edge - Diana's Point. Named after Princess Diana and located where she once stood.
UNESCO Islands
Did you know Oman also has UNESCO Islands as well as the five UNESCO world heritage sites? Why not extend your stay to visit Fahal Island, Bandar Jissah, Bandar Khayran, Sawadi Islands or Damaniyat Islands. Where you can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving and wildlife watching.
Shukraan (Thank you) for reading and I hope you are inspired to visit Oman.