On Arabian Shores

This arrangement, new for 2008, combines an outstanding tariff at the 4-star Al Sawadi Beach Resort in north-western Oman with exploration of some of the most fascinating towns and cities of this little-known country, whose historical heritage and colourful charm was previously closed to the rest of the world.

Oman’s coastline remains unspoilt by mass tourism, with seemingly endless white sand beaches, far removed from the bustling capital Muscat. Nizwa, the capital of the interior region, has a wealth of cultural and ancient landmarks including Nizwa Fort, surrounded by ancient souks where locals trade in traditional merchandise, from fruit to jewellery. The oasis of Bahla owes its prosperity to the Banu Nebhan, the dominant tribe in the region from the 12th to the end of the 15th century, and the ruins of its immense fort, with walls and towers of unbaked brick and stone foundations, have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nearby Jabrin Fort, also known as the palace of Imam Bil Arub Bin Sultan, was built in1675 with a distinct architecture of latticed and stone barred windows, turrets, trellised balconies and Islamic and fl oral designs adorning the ceilings.

Northern Oman’s natural desert landscape is interrupted by imposing mountains and vast plateau commanding spectacular views and the Jebel Akhdar range is home to the second deepest canyon in the world; witnessed from Jebel Shams plateau, at 2000m above sea level, Oman’s own “Grand Canyon” is a sight to behold.