Oman stands in stark contrast to the UAE with its rich heritage, a strong sense of identity, a pride in the ancient, miles of pristine untouched nature and a chance to engage with the authentic Arab world without the distorting lens of excessive wealth. You will feel as though you have been transported back in time, when values such as hospitality, respect, kindness and generosity were still held dear. Omanis are simple people – they are religious, friendly and extremely hospitable.
The country is replete with historical treasures from the olden times, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, magnificent landscapes, pristine waters and spectacular deserts. Oman has a beautifully traditional soul!
Tourist Visa for US Citizens: Required. U.S. citizens should apply for tourist visas in advance. Tourist visas are also available upon arrival at airports and land crossings.
► US Department of State Oman Information
► Official Sultanate of Oman tourism website
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The main international airport serving Oman is MCT Muscat International. The new Terminal was opened in 2018, making for a very pleasant overall passenger experience.
Flying Private: There are several FBO options available.
► Wikipedia information on MCT Muscat International
The best source to check which airlines are servicing the airport.
Someone’s cultural awareness is their understanding of the differences between themselves and people from other countries or other backgrounds, especially differences in attitudes and values. Travel is a way to expose yourself to other cultures. And as a guest, it is generally best to respect the culture of your host, regardless of your agreement or disagreement with their ways or beliefs.
As with most Muslim regions, both Men and Women should not expose their shoulders, elbows or knees when out in public. Both men and women should not wear shorts, sleeveless shirts or anything that exposes too much flesh. Women should wear skirts reaching below the knee level, and shirts with sleeves preferably elbow length or longer.
mountains above Nizwa
Size: 78 rooms and suites
Style: Contemporary & Stunning & Secluded
Year Opened: 2014
Designer/Architect: Atkins, P49 Design
Jabal Akhdar, meaning “The Green Mountain” in Arabic, is part of the Al Hajar mountain range, one of Oman’s most spectacular regions.
Stop us if you’ve heard this one before: Alila is Sanskrit for “surprise.” And it’s a surprise, indeed, to find one of the Alila group’s impeccably stylish luxury boutique hotels in so remote a corner of the Middle East — Oman’s Al Hajar mountain range, to be exact. It requires some effort to get to Alila Jabal Akhdar, and that’s exactly the appeal. This is not just a boutique hotel with serious design chops: it’s an oasis, secluded and self-contained, with a spectacular spa and an infinity pool that’s perfectly placed for drinking in views of the stark landscape.
PART OF MY HYATT PRIVÉ PORTFOLIO
You get additional Amenities when I manage your reservation.
• $100 USD Property Credit
• Room Upgrade
• Breakfast for Two
• Welcome Amenity
• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out
• Benefits at this hotel require a two night minimum length of stay.
Musandam, northern sector of Oman
Size: 82 villas
Style: Contemporary, Indigenous
Year Opened: 2008
While technically in Oman, Zighy Bay is best paired with a visit to Dubai, it’s closet major city.
Marhaba means “welcome” in Arabic, and a warm marhaba greets you at Six Senses Zighy Bay, set between the Hajar Mountains and the sea. For an unforgettable arrival, paraglide in from the mountaintop. Enjoy the large freshwater and saltwater pools; a long, private sandy beach; and locally inspired treatments and wellness programs at the Six Senses Spa. The restaurants serve world-class food, including many local dishes and flavors from the resort’s organic garden. Throughout the resort, you’ll find Omani architecture that is blended with every level of modern luxury under the shade of numerous Zighy date palms.
I AM A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
You get additional Amenities when I manage your reservation.
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
• Complimentary 60 minutes signature Spa treatment for each adult booked in the villa.
• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
and more
The dunes of the Wahiba Sands in Oman supply plenty of beguiling splendor, and Magic Camp, one of the jewels of the area, offers a perfect blend of adventure and luxury. This is an intimate and genuine private camp (with no permanent structures) surrounded by rolling sand dunes and decorated in the Arabian and Berber styles of legend. If you’ve ever dreamed of sitting around the campfire under the starry night sky of the romantic Arabian deserts, this is the place for you. Expert guides facilitate engaging activities, from desert exploration by camel to cultural encounters, to dune bashing and sand sports. By booking out all ten tents, you can customize the camp exclusively for your party, which is perfect for special celebrations and events.
VOYAGE TO OMAN
Duration: 7 Days
Interests: Heritage
Destinations: Roundtrip adventure from Muscat
With its rich and varied culture, pristine landscapes, and unspoiled coastline, Oman is part of the select group of destinations that combine all the elements of a well-paced journey. Here, one can discover one of the most beautiful deserts in the Middle East at the edge of Wahiba Sands, crystal-clear beaches surrounded by mountains, natural pools nestled in the wadis, and some of the most evocative souks from the Arabian Nights…
This itinerary is an example. All trips are 100% bespoke.
Oman travel guide
With its horizon-bending desertscapes and empty, enigmatic islands, Oman might be the most quietly wondrous state on the Arabian Peninsula.
► My Virtuoso Oman Information Page
Here is a good place to start for some additional information on quality Hotels, Water Adventures and Activities.
Here’s How to Spend 12 Days in Oman
For years, I’d dreamed of visiting Oman, lured by photos of its rugged desert landscapes, coastal sand dunes, and age-old forts. It looked like the kind of place that Indiana Jones would enjoy.
► WIKIVOYAGE: Sultanate of Oman Page
A great resource for all the basic information you need for Oman.
Muscat General Information Page
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page updated: July 2024
images courtesy: Wikimedia Commons, Sultanate of Oman Tourism Board
Please Note: All Hotel / Resort / Cruise / Services Amenities are subject to availability and may have changed since the date of this being published.
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