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Oman

Not so long ago, Oman was known only as a distant land; a country located somewhere in the Middle East that even the grade-A geography students would have trouble pointing out on an Atlas. In recent years, however, this jewel of a country has grown into an emerging travel destination in Asia. Vastly unexplored and relatively undeveloped, this is a land rich in both natural and manmade attractions; from the gleaming mosques and boisterous souqs of the capital, Muscat, to the ancient fort ruins running along the palm tree-fringed coastlines – not forgetting the country’s barren desert dunes at Wahiba Sands in the east and throughout the Empty Quarter in the south.

Heralded as one of the most beautiful countries in the Middle East, Oman’s untouched scenery paints a picture of stark contrasts. Impressive Wadis (valleys) formed by ancient rivers cut through the mountainous landscape, with the site at Ghul in the north often drawing similarities to the Grand Canyon, just on a smaller scale. Jump on a plane from Muscat to the southern city of Salalah and you could be fooled into thinking you have switched continents, with the dry, rocky landscape of the capital transforming into luscious green countryside that enjoys the monsoon rains and cooler air spilling over from the Indian Ocean.

Classic Oman starting at $5,100 per person

Oman Regions

Central Coastal

Dhofar

Musandam Peninsula

Northern Oman

Top Oman Interests

PREFERRED HOTEL

Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel

The rugged Al Hajar mountains make a rustic backdrop behind the fortress-like Al Bustan Palace, which overlooks a canopy of perfectly-manicured lawns and an expansive half-mile private beach. Authentic Arab influences run throughout the hotel and its 150 rooms to remind guests of the rich and ostentatious Arabian culture. Beautifully-designed interiors are an artistic combination of old and new, fusing local traditions and art deco hints to create a unique melange of Middle Eastern culture and art. Particularly notable is the spectacular 125-foot-high domed atrium lobby, which, along with the ornate wall covers and intricate carvings has earnt the hotel the extravagant reputation as the ‘Jewel of the Sultanate’. Its idyllic location and range of facilities gives guests the opportunity to indulge in a number of watersports or simply relax in one of the five outdoor pools. Four exquisite dining options from alluring beachfront restaurants provide guests with spectacular sea views while they savour exceptional flavors from around the world.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort

The Al Hajar mountains form one of the most photogenic regions of Oman - a widely underrated country known throughout the Middle East for its diverse natural beauty and fascinating culture. The Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort takes full advantage of the location, perched thousands of feet above sea level, looking down into a spectacular gorge that plummets to the ground below. And it's not just a good location that sets this resort apart from the rest. The wonderfully appointed range of suites here boast 'ridge', 'mountain' or 'horizon' views, each as spectacular as the next. This, after all, is a five-star hotel, so expect the rooms to come fully furnished with all the facilities you would expect; this means free high-speed WiFi, cable TV, air conditioning and lavish en-suite bathrooms with a quality range of toiletries. Away from the rooms, take a dip in one of the indoor or outdoor swimming pools, or enjoy delicious, elegantly presented local specialities at the resort's signature 'Juniper Restaurant' or adjacent 'Rose Lounge'. There's also an onsite business center, a luxurious spa and free parking for guests coming by car. Alila Jabal Akhdar is approximately 2.5 hours away from the major Muscat International Airport of Oman.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Desert Nights Camp

Rising like a surreal mirage out of the colorful Wahiba Sands, Desert Nights Camp is an exclusive five-star hotel in Oman. The fragrance of frankincense and myrrh greet guests upon arrival for a journey into an alluring Arabian world. Offering luxurious comfort in the form of Bedouin-style tents under a blanket of Arabian stars, the camp is an exceptional destination with exclusive air. Red sand dunes create a romantic backdrop for these intimate air-conditioned tents, complete with Omani-style decor and furnishings. An extravagant bathroom is the highlight of the room, featuring world-class amenities and golden tiles for a lavish and airy feel. All rooms open out to encompass panoramic scenes over the silken desert sands, offering serene and picturesque views.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

Just 15 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Muscat, Oman, the spectacular Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa sprawls over a rugged peninsula, reaching out into the crystal blue water of the Sea of Oman. Featuring a long, sandy beach and surrounded by mountains, this resort matches its spectacular natural environment with its exquisite design and architecture, calling back to times of Arabian Palaces and local markets. Guests may choose between three distinct hotels located across the property: Al Waha, “the Oasis,” a family-friendly hotel turned seaside paradise; Al Bandar, “the Town,” which serves as the shopping-and-eating hub of the resort, and the palatial Al Husn, "the Castle,” the most luxurious of them all. With world-class restaurants and seaside cafes and bars, a wide variety of water activities including sea kayaking and scuba diving, and –of course –CHI, The Spa, guests at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa will lose themselves in fun, in adventure, in luxury, and in style.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Six Senses Zighy Bay

Enjoying a spectacularly isolated location on the northernmost tip of Oman, this award-winning resort combines a superb coastal position alongside an exciting mountain backdrop towards the south, truly delivering the best of both worlds. This means you can wake up and head out for a swim or sunbathe on the beach, then take full advantage of the wealth of activities available inland, such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing - or even take a microlight flight! The range of 82 villas and suites are just as impressive as the location, each providing a private plunge pool, terrace, dining area and outside shower. Villas here are arranged to mimic a traditional Omani village, and the chunky stone walls help to keep things cool, as well as air conditioning throughout. For more space for swimming, head to the resort’s freeform infinity edge pool which overlooks the ocean horizon and has ample sun loungers for a relaxing poolside with refreshment in-hand. For dining, you don’t have to venture too far either. Zighy Bay’s signature restaurant is perched atop the rocky hill overlooking the resort and serves traditional dishes with a modern, creative twist.

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TRAVELOGUES

Remote Lands Hot Winter Pick: Muscat for the Desert

Author : Travelogues

If you're looking for a hot winter in Asia with desert dunes and the finest accommodations, Muscat is an up-and-coming destination for adventure travelers who like to relax away from it all.

Green with Envy: Pining After the Most Wondrous Beach in Oman

Author : Duncan Forgan

Duncan Forgan travels through Oman to find turtles, beaches, and one of the most luxurious hotels in the whole of the country, The Chedi Muscat.

Khasab: Smugglers, Dolphins, and Dhows in the Fjords of Oman

Author : Richard Collett

Smugglers run goods to Iran, oil tankers rest on the Strait of Hormuz, and dolphins swim bright, coral waters surrounded by arid cliffs. This is Khasab.

4 Reasons You Don’t Want to Miss Salalah this Fall

Author : Travelogues

Salalah surprises those who visit from July to September. Instead of deserts, travelers find a land of green marked by history, culture, and natural wonders.

3 Must-See Muscat Luxury Hotels

Author : Tyler Roney

Whether you're setting off for wildlife adventures or settling in for an exploration of Oman's most fascinating city, these Muscat hotels have what luxury travelers crave.

3 Easy-to-Do Wildlife Adventures in Oman

Author : Tyler Roney

From the turtles of Ras al Jinz to the dolphins off Musandam, the warm waters of the Gulf of Oman provide wildlife pleasures that are both fascinating and easy

WHY CHOOSE US

Couple from Texas - Aman Jet Expedition, October 2016

“ We have used some of the top rated travel specialists all over the world and, without question, Catherine Heald and Remote Lands are at the very top of the list! ”

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