01242 253 073
Oman: 8 compelling reasons why this Arabian gem should be on your holiday wishlist
Teetering right on the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a world of colour, culture, history and Arabic charm just waiting to be discovered.
Jagged coastlines hide secret beaches, lush green lagoons are there to swim in, camels are waiting to be ridden through golden deserts, crumbling ancient towns are ripe for exploring and impressive canyons are there to be conquered. (There are some seriously lovely places to stay, too…)
Firstly, meet your Oman Specialists…
Our Emma (otherwise known as ‘Higgo’) fell in love with Oman during a round-trip visit through the country’s varied scenery. She explored the fascinating cities, hiked the imposing mountains, got a little lost in the endless deserts, and even ventured to its lesser-visited southern stretch. With soft spots for nature, food, and new cultures, Emma found everything she could want from a travel destination in Oman, and she’s confident you will, too!
Catherine loves everything about Oman. From its rapidly expanding cities and grand mosques to the unspoilt deserts, rich marine life and flawless night skies. A big fan of the outdoors, Cat wasn’t disappointed with the numerous adventure activities on offer, from diving, hikes, cycle trails and all-terrain jeep tours to the lively and colourful souks. Oman is one of those countries which will surprise you, no matter how many times you return and Cat is well-equipped to guide you through this mesmerising Arabian country.
8 reasons to visit (and fall in love with) Oman
1. It has incredible cities, just waiting to be explored
Oman’s capital city, Muscat, is a city of two sides. In its historic heart is Old Muscat and Muttrah where you’ll find the magnificent Sultan’s Palace, the old souq (where you can buy anything from frankincense to traditional Omani relics) and ancient forts.
Away from the old centre, you’ll find a much more modern Oman. Here, air-conditioned shopping centers exist alongside the staggeringly impressive and opulent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. We highly recommend exploring it all on a Muscat City Tour.
2. You’ll unwind on the beaches (with the turtles)
Oman has some really beautiful beaches to unwind on. Whether you head to the coast near Salalah, escape to a secret beach lagoon on a snorkelling trip to the Daymaniyat Islands, spot the turtles at Ras al-Jinz or simply while away the hours at your beach resort hotel in Muscat. It might not be the first place you think of for a beach break, but it can deliver! This is why we think it makes a fab family getaway destination, too.
3. Its ancient towns are ready to transport you back in time
It’s so worth heading up to the ancient capital of Nizwa and the surrounding Hajar Mountains on your Oman holiday. Take some time to explore the imposing canyons and terraced villages of Al Hamra and Birkat al Mouz, that seem to almost magically emerge out of the rock. You’ll feel a million miles from the modern world and prepare to have your breath taken away every time you turn a corner, only to be faced with a new spellbinding view (that might just be even better than the last!)
4. You can lose yourself in the golden dunes
Whether you’re keen to get right off the beaten track with a visit to Oman’s Empty Quarter (well worth it if you can spare the time!), or fancy a desert experience a little closer to the action – we’ve got you covered! The Wahiba Sands are only a few hours from Muscat, and you won’t be compromising on that magical desert experience. Endless dunes, camel rides and dream-worthy starry skies are waiting for you in Oman, however far you venture.
5. An Oman holiday means staying in some seriously beautiful places
There are some very special accommodation options on offer in Oman. If you’re heading into the mountains, we LOVE the Anantara Jabal Akhdar. When in Muscat, if you fancy a smidge of adult-only luxury (and a private beach!), head to the Al Husn Shangri-La. And, for a luxury tented night under the stars in the Wahiba Sands, don’t miss a stay at the beautiful Desert Nights Camp.
6. You’ll answer to the call of the mountains
For the adventurous and active amongst you, Oman has some truly spectacular hiking on offer. If you’re after the ultimate challenge, test your head for heights with a walk around the Balcony Walk on Jebel Shams (Oman’s highest peak!). We also recommend heading to the stunning Wadi Ghul nearby – it’s not known as Oman’s ‘Grand Canyon’ for no reason!
7. You’ll discover the bluest swimming spots
Oman is packed full of some seriously beautiful swimming spots. From the secret beaches tucked away in the rugged coastline and the turquoise lagoons at Wadi Bani Khalid, to the luxury beach resorts in Muscat, swimming with dolphins off the Musandam Peninsula and taking a dip in the picture-perfect waterfalls at Salalah.
8. There are so many adventures, just waiting for you
Take to the turquoise on a snorkelling adventure and swim amongst turtles, vibrant fish, rays and even whale sharks. Head to the mountains and test your mettle on a canyoning adventure through the caverns. Or, head to the Wahiba Sands desert to explore the dunes on camelback. There are so many adventures just waiting to be had in Oman.
So, there you have it: 8 reasons why you need to go to Oman (and will love it when you do!). All in all, Oman makes for a fantastic holiday destination. Whether you’re looking for some chilled out R&R, an adventure for all the family, or to soak up a brand new culture and rich history – you can do it all here. Chat to Emma or Cat, our fab Oman specialists, to start planning your perfectly-bespoke Oman holiday today.
