Perched on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman overlooks the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman with a procession of pristine sandy beaches and off-shore islands, precious nesting grounds for endangered sea turtles. Close to the shore, hard and soft coral reefs teem with brilliantly coloured fish. The country’s most fertile lands lie to the north, where palms, frankincense, oleander and acacia proliferate. Beyond, the land rises to rugged mountainous slopes, dry as a bone in summer and lush with greenery during monsoon rains. At the heart of Oman lie vast areas of desert, ideal for camel trekking and camping under the stars.

Oman borders Saudia Arabia, Yemen and the United Arab Emirates. It has been inhabited since pre-historic times with signs of ancient cave paintings and settlements as old as 8000 years. The region was subjugated by numerous empires and in the 7th century AD Oman adopted Ibadism – a conservative form of Islam. As an organised and self-governing territory, the country traces its roots to the 16th century, when a Yemeni tribe from the region of Uman settled the area and established a Sultanate, whose male descendants continue to rule the country today, Known for its traditional hospitality, Oman makes you feel right at home from the time you arrive, until the moment you leave. The local Omanis are very friendly and always willing to help. English is widely spoken although sometimes on a very basic form.