Perched on the long sandy beach and next to the Al Baleed archaeological park and freshwater lagoon, the Anantara Al Baleed Resort offers the most luxurious accommodation in Salalah, a city that traditionally lacked top-end options. There are 40 rooms (generously sized though without a private pool), some with a sea-view, though many people will be keen to stay in the opulent villas, almost all of which have a private pool and some of which give directly onto the beach. The spa is sensational, food is excellent and staff are genuinely warm and hospitable.

The Anantara has so much going for it. Just outside the city centre but on the beach, the Al Baleed is certainly the best option in town, though it is also the most costly.