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An intriguing, beguiling and exciting country enveloped in a sense of tradition.
oman
With a rich culture extending back thousands of years, the land of the Arabian Knights and the alleged home of Sinbad the Sailor, Oman is one of the oldest civilisations of the Arabian Peninsular. Oman's diverse terrain of mountains, deserts and seascapes are an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Discover the ancient and modern traditions of the Omani people together with fantastic sightseeing and scenery. Oman has become an exciting and vibrant destination with high quality cosmopolitan hotels, a great climate and blissful beaches.
INFORMATION Capital: Muscat Geography: Lying southeast on the Arabian Peninsular Time Difference: GMT +4 hours Currency: Omani Rial Passports: A full ten year passport is required and must be valid for at least six months from date of arrival Visas: Tourist visas are required for British passport holders and can be obtained directly upon arrival into Oman. Approximate visa cost £8 per person Vaccinations: No compulsory vaccinations required Population: Approx. 2 million Airport: Seeb International airport, Muscat (MCT) OMAN REGIONAL MAP Occupying the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsular, Oman is the third largest country in Arabia. To the North, it borders the Strait of Hormuz and to the East the coastline stretches along the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea showcasing varying terrain from long sandy beaches to the deep fjords of the Musandam. To the West, Oman borders Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates whereas it fringes Rub Al Khali (also known as the `Empty Quarter') to the East. The northern region of the Musandam Peninsula is separated from the rest of the country for 110 km by the UAE.
Muscat
Muscat
The Chedi Muscat Inter Continental Al Bustan Palace Al Husn Al Bandar Al Waha
see & do
MUSCAT WALKING TOUR One of the best ways to explore Muscat and soak up the atmosphere is on foot. Take a walk through the old walled town with its four gates and steep narrow streets to see the Sultan's imposing Royal Palace, the 16th century Mirani and Jalali Forts, and the old Muttrah Souk (see opposite). NATIONAL MUSEUM, RUWI Worth a visit to view the impressive collection of Omani silverwork on display. NIZWA About 105 miles from Muscat, the verdant oasis town of Nizwa with its 17th century fort is the centre of the Omani craft industry. The covered souk is famous for its silver Bedouin jewellery but venture also into the backstreets to see khanjar-makers (carved daggers) at work. DESERT ADVENTURES Experience a thrilling four-wheel drive adventure into the desert for an enchanting dinner amidst the dunes and be entertained by traditional Arabic music. BAHLA Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the dilapidated ruins tower 160 feet above the surrounding plain. The huge fortress was the capital city of Oman in the 15th century. Surrounded by superstition and rumoured to be the dwelling place of magicians, witches and soothsayers it has a mystical atmosphere all of its own. Bahla town is a potter's paradise be welcomed into local workshops to see traditional pottery making using old clay ovens. MUSANDAM PENINSULA Reached by a short flight from Muscat (operating approx. twice weekly) and rising 6,500 feet, the Musandam Peninsula is often referred to as the `Norway of the Middle East' with its serene fjords and inlets. Take a dhow cruise to appreciate the striking beauty of this region. WAHIBA SANDS Running south from the eastern Hajar mountains to the Arabian Gulf, these magnificent dunes tower some 350-450 feet high, perfect for adventure.
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