Oasis of calm is like a taste of old Arabia
REBECCA DAY discovers the charms of Muscat in Oman
IF you don’t clean your car in Oman, you’ll be landed with a fine. It’s not a fact that’s likely to get you any points on Mastermind - but one I can’t get out of my head as we meander through capital Muscat, an ancient port city at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula.
In a way it reflects the tone of the country - well preserved, traditional and meticulous, with a humble pride in its way of life.
If you’re tempted by the allure of the Middle East, but put off by the flashy pretence of Dubai, then look no further than its modest neighbour Oman.
There are no garish hotels or towering sky scrapers - instead there are glorious mountains, sand and sea. Here you’ll find an oasis of calm on the mouth of the Persian gulf - more like a taste of old Arabia.
Oman is often overlooked by visitors flocking to UAE, but now the tourist board is upping its game, in the hope of steering holidaymakers its way.
Hence the reason we were invited on board, as national airline Oman Air launched direct flights between Manchester and capital Muscat.
What Oman lacks in showy high rise buildings, it makes up for in stunning scenery.
Here’s a guide of where to go, what to do and where to stay...
Where to stay We ventured into the mountainous region, and headed 2,000m above sea level to stay at the stunning Anantara resort at Al Jabal Al Akhdar. What makes this hotel such an attractive destination is the ridiculous landscape. Nothing can beat taking a dip in the infinity pool while gazing out to the panoramic view of the dramatic, craggy mountaintops.
It’s mild up here too, which is also a massive bonus, as down in Muscat I feel like I’m about to pass out every five minutes in the blazing 40C heat.
The jewel in the crown of this resort is Diana’s Point - named after the late Princess, who visited this beauty spot with Charles in the 1980s.
We sipped cocktails at sunset while looking out to the jaw-dropping view. For the daredevils among you, there’s also the chance to go rock climbing and abseiling down the canyon, or for those hoping for a more relaxed holiday, you can take a stroll into the village.
Shangri-La: While in Muscat we stayed at the Shangri-La Hotel. The giant hotel has an ornate charm, although it’s quite easy to get lost in the myriad of rooms and corridors.
During our stay, we are treated to a phenomenal 6 course taster menu by 2 Michelin starred Italian chef Theodor Falser - chefs of this calibre are often flown in here, I’m told.
What to do Shangri-La offers dolphin watching and snorkeling trips for guests, and there’s a dedicated turtle ranger at the resort to look after the shelled cuties, which can occasionally be seen scurrying into the sea after they’ve hatched. We did some sightseeing in Muscat, and visited the Grand Mosque (remember to cover up), as well as the Opera House and National Museum.
We then headed into the ancient city of Nizwa. To really immerse yourself in Oman’s history, visit Nizwa Fort, a large castle built in the 1650s. Then head into the ancient souq, one of the oldest marketplaces in Oman, to pick up your spices and trinkets.