For those who would like a holiday with a difference and a little adventure, Oman offers a taste of Arabia – it is still a rare mix of unspoilt Arab ancient tradition with small areas of westernized luxury. The history goes back thousands of years BC when Arab sailors were busy plying their trade on the spice routes through the Red Sea and Persian Gulf to Europe and down the Indian Ocean to Zanzibar. A focal point for traders in the Middle-east throughout the centuries, there are numerous forts, some rebuilt to their former glory, which tell the tale of the coming of Islam and later the first Europeans who were the Portuguese in the 15th Century. In mountains 6000 feet up families live, until recently cut off from civilization, as they have for centuries, growing their crops on terraces. On the coast traditional dhows still fish for the plentiful supply and there is some excellent sport fishing and Scuba diving.

The few hotels (see our directory above right) offer luxury, excellent food and service and unspoilt beaches. Tours include 4 wheel drive trips along the coast, through the desert, over the mountains (Jebel), visits to ancient souks and markets. Longer trips are also available to Salala in the south and the remote Empty Quarter.

Providing its visitors an both educational and inspiring experience, Oman is undoubtedly one of the most diverse and enchanting countries with a striking combination of landscapes, people, history and culture. This is a destination that is unusual and is highly recommended.

MAP of OMAN

CLIMATE

Currency: Omani Rial

Electricity: 220 – 240v.

Flying Time from UK: 6 hrs