Where?

Muscat, Oman

Why now?

Wedged between the Al Hajar mountains and the Arabic Gulf coast,
Oman’s capital is an Arabic city which retains its old world charm
– a rarity among the ritzy, high-rise cities of the modern-day
Middle East.

Unfazed by keeping up with their flashier neighbours in Abu
Dhabi and
Dubai, Omanis are known to be a laid-back lot who greet
travellers with open arms. This relaxed but traditional atmosphere
is what makes Muscat special – it’s a place where biblical history
meets the 21st century. A sea of domed roofs and white buildings
sparkle in the sunshine, the heady smell of frankincense lingering
down narrow alleyways a reminder of the city’s rich religious
heritage, while forward-thinking citizens make it a cosmopolitan
metropolis which is both materially and culturally rich thanks to a
thriving port.

Buy fresh fish at the bustling harbour, venture into the desert
or grab an ice-cold drink and hit the beach to watch locals play
football as the sun goes down. Everything a contemporary traveller
could wish for, Muscat really is the Arabian dream.

When to go?

Summer is scorching and so best avoided. Head there between
November and February when temperatures are in the high 20s.

Most likely to bump into…

Hagglers, bartering for goods in the colourful and vibrant
souks.

Who to bring with you?

Someone with a taste for the exotic.

Don’t miss

There is something magical about the desert, known as ‘The Empty
Quarter’. The wind whips up the sand causing it to spin and twirl
in the sunlight, while the dunes are carved into waves, creating a
dramatic horizon. Also great for all the adrenaline junkies, ‘dune
bashing’ is certainly a way to get the heart pounding. The
intricate mosaic works at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – a
stunning example of modern Arabic architecture and the only mosque
in Oman open to non-Muslims.

Muttrah Souk, a vibrant labyrinth of chaos. Test your bartering
skills on ceramics, jewellery, spices and a sizeable selection of
camel-themed souvenirs.

Visit the Bedouin tribespeople, Arabic nomads who shun modern
existence. Watch traditional camel racing or, even better, a camel
beauty competition.

Stroll along the beach at night and see the waters glow as a
result of luminescent algae.

An essential to bring with you

The desert heat means light, loose-fitting clothing is a must. A
scarf is also a necessity – despite Oman’s religious tolerance you
must cover your head in order to enter the Sultan Qaboos Grand
Mosque.

How to get there

There are direct flights to Muscat from London with Oman Air
and British Airways.