7 nights from £1175
Oman is a corner of Arabia, quite off the beaten track. A relaxation of issuing tourist visas has opened up the historical heritage and colourful charm of this little known country, which borders the United Arab Emirates. Blessed with outstanding rare natural beauty, Oman boasts a pristine and extensive coastline, the majestic Hajar Mountains and vast swathes of desert interspersed with wadis and lush vegetation. The charming coastal capital Muscat has a colourful history dating back to 2500 BC and features modern hotels, ancient souks, cosmopolitan malls and resplendent mosques. Beyond Muscat, antiquity and tradition can be observed in ancient trading towns built around oases replete with forts and souks. Nizwa, the erstwhile capital, has an immense palm oasis and a giant castle. In the extreme south, coastal Salalah is both a city and leisure resort set amongst coconut groves and banana plantations with stunning sandy beaches.
