The document provides an overview of the author's luxury travel experience in Oman. Some key details include:
- The author stayed at the Alila Jabal Akhdar resort located in the Hajar Mountains, which provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Activities included dolphin watching, visiting historic sites like Nizwa Fort, and spending a night at Desert Nights Camp in the Wahiba Sands desert.
- Oman has diverse landscapes from mountains to beaches to desert, and is known for its production of frankincense and other aromatic goods. The country promotes adventure tourism while maintaining traditional customs.
The document describes a journey through Oman's Wahiba Sands desert region to experience the allure of unleashing one's inner Indiana Jones. It details stops in Nizwa, an ancient capital known for its fort, and a cattle market. It then recounts arriving at the Arabian Oryx Desert Camp just in time to witness a stunning desert sunset, treasuring the natural spectacle.
- The document is an itinerary for a 7-day school trip from Abercorn to Morocco, including destinations in Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, the Sahara Desert, and more.
- The itinerary provides details on accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities for each day, including visits to landmarks, hiking, camel riding in the desert, and local entertainment.
- The trip aims to enhance students' learning of French, art, and geography through experiencing the culture and landscapes of Morocco firsthand.
Candice Bain recommends visiting Oman, describing it as an "undiscovered jewel" with stunning natural beauty. She lists her top 12 things to do in Oman, including visiting over 500 forts, hiking Jebel Shams mountain, and taking a dhow trip in Musandam, which she describes as her favorite day trip. However, she notes that most high-quality hotels are located in Muscat and there is a need for more boutique hotels in other areas of Oman.
Guide to Southern Africa by Sedunia TravelSedunia Travel
Southern Africa is fast becoming one of the hottest destinations for Malaysians to visit in 2014. With its outstanding natural beauty, dizzying array of flora and fauna and rich cultural heritage, it's no wonder that Africa is on the radar for well-travelled Malaysians.
We've put together our ultimate guide to holidays in southern Africa, covering:
* Top tourist attractions
* Best national parks for safari
* Overviews of Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe as well as
* Tips on what to expect for first-time safari goers
Visit http://www.seduniatravel.com/tours/africa for more information
Gulmarg, a popular ski destination in Kashmir, India, is described. The document details the author's experiences trekking through Gulmarg's forests with a local guide, exploring the town, and visiting nearby places like Sonamarg. It also provides background information on Kashmir's culture, food, handicrafts like pashmina shawls, and the conflict surrounding its political status.
This document provides an overview of the new Angsana Balaclava resort in Mauritius. Some key details:
- Angsana Balaclava is a 52-suite boutique resort located on the northwest coast of Mauritius known for its fair weather.
- The resort features a traditional Mauritian village design with thatched roofs, and incorporates local artistry. It has 3 overlapping swimming pools and villas with private infinity pools.
- The suites and villas offer luxurious accommodations with amenities like deep soaking tubs. The Spa Suites include a complimentary 90-minute massage.
- On-site dining includes the main Oryza
I'll be back: How we got smitten by the harsh beauty of the Ladakh Valleythoughtles
The document provides an account of a 10-day road trip through Ladakh, India taken by 8 men in 3 vehicles. They camped near beautiful lakes, dealing with harsh conditions like freezing temperatures and vehicle issues. Their Ambassador car proved very durable and useful for improvised repairs. The group bonded over the challenges of the journey and enjoyed scenic highlights like Tso Moriri lake at sunrise. The trip allowed for reflection on life priorities while experiencing the striking natural beauty of Ladakh.
The document describes a journey through Oman's Wahiba Sands desert region to experience the allure of unleashing one's inner Indiana Jones. It details stops in Nizwa, an ancient capital known for its fort, and a cattle market. It then recounts arriving at the Arabian Oryx Desert Camp just in time to witness a stunning desert sunset, treasuring the natural spectacle.
- The document is an itinerary for a 7-day school trip from Abercorn to Morocco, including destinations in Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, the Sahara Desert, and more.
- The itinerary provides details on accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities for each day, including visits to landmarks, hiking, camel riding in the desert, and local entertainment.
- The trip aims to enhance students' learning of French, art, and geography through experiencing the culture and landscapes of Morocco firsthand.
Candice Bain recommends visiting Oman, describing it as an "undiscovered jewel" with stunning natural beauty. She lists her top 12 things to do in Oman, including visiting over 500 forts, hiking Jebel Shams mountain, and taking a dhow trip in Musandam, which she describes as her favorite day trip. However, she notes that most high-quality hotels are located in Muscat and there is a need for more boutique hotels in other areas of Oman.
Guide to Southern Africa by Sedunia TravelSedunia Travel
Southern Africa is fast becoming one of the hottest destinations for Malaysians to visit in 2014. With its outstanding natural beauty, dizzying array of flora and fauna and rich cultural heritage, it's no wonder that Africa is on the radar for well-travelled Malaysians.
We've put together our ultimate guide to holidays in southern Africa, covering:
* Top tourist attractions
* Best national parks for safari
* Overviews of Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe as well as
* Tips on what to expect for first-time safari goers
Visit http://www.seduniatravel.com/tours/africa for more information
Gulmarg, a popular ski destination in Kashmir, India, is described. The document details the author's experiences trekking through Gulmarg's forests with a local guide, exploring the town, and visiting nearby places like Sonamarg. It also provides background information on Kashmir's culture, food, handicrafts like pashmina shawls, and the conflict surrounding its political status.
This document provides an overview of the new Angsana Balaclava resort in Mauritius. Some key details:
- Angsana Balaclava is a 52-suite boutique resort located on the northwest coast of Mauritius known for its fair weather.
- The resort features a traditional Mauritian village design with thatched roofs, and incorporates local artistry. It has 3 overlapping swimming pools and villas with private infinity pools.
- The suites and villas offer luxurious accommodations with amenities like deep soaking tubs. The Spa Suites include a complimentary 90-minute massage.
- On-site dining includes the main Oryza
I'll be back: How we got smitten by the harsh beauty of the Ladakh Valleythoughtles
The document provides an account of a 10-day road trip through Ladakh, India taken by 8 men in 3 vehicles. They camped near beautiful lakes, dealing with harsh conditions like freezing temperatures and vehicle issues. Their Ambassador car proved very durable and useful for improvised repairs. The group bonded over the challenges of the journey and enjoyed scenic highlights like Tso Moriri lake at sunrise. The trip allowed for reflection on life priorities while experiencing the striking natural beauty of Ladakh.
Este usuario completó un curso de introducción a la programación en C# de manera online el 3 de septiembre de 2013 según un certificado emitido. El certificado felicita al usuario por sus logros y le desea lo mejor en su continuo aprendizaje.
The document provides 3 tips for spreading beauty from one's wedding to the world:
1. Include charitable donations as part of the wedding registry and choose charities passionate about.
2. Purchase items that are environmentally friendly and have good working conditions when possible.
3. Donate unused centerpieces, dresses, or support small businesses through microloans instead of favors.
The National Football League (NFL) is the largest professional American football league, comprised of 32 franchises located in different US cities and regions. It was established in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association and has been the top level of professional American football in the US since the 1960s. The NFL is divided into two conferences, the National Football Conference and the American Football Conference, each with four divisions of four teams each.
Grandma found a baby boy emerging from a peach by the river while doing laundry, and named him Momotaro. Momotaro recruited a monkey, dog, and bird to help him confront demons that were troubling people. Working together, they defeated the demons, allowing the people to live happily again.
The document discusses advice that women receive about weddings from other women in their lives. It notes that the bride received a lot of advice from her mother, grandmother, sisters, colleagues and cousins about things like dress color, season to get married, and more. The bride felt overwhelmed by it all at first but now sees it as a sign of love and support from the important women in her life. She is ready to consider all of their advice as she plans her wedding.
Este documento presenta a Intedya, una consultora internacional presente en más de 15 países que ofrece servicios de consultoría, auditoría y formación en gestión de calidad, medio ambiente, seguridad e inocuidad alimentaria. Intedya se basa en su experiencia para ayudar a los clientes a maximizar su rendimiento y crear valor sostenible. El documento describe la estrategia, valores, equipo, áreas de conocimiento y servicios de Intedya.
O documento descreve a expansão marítima portuguesa e espanhola nos séculos 15 e 16, com destaque para as viagens de Vasco da Gama à Índia em 1498 e de Cristóvão Colombo à América em 1492. Apresenta também as inovações técnicas que possibilitaram as grandes navegações e seus impactos, como a ampliação do conhecimento geográfico do mundo e o deslocamento do eixo econômico para o Atlântico.
Strikes and lockouts, weapons used by employer and employee, advantages and d...Suleyman Ally
meaning of strike and lockout.
types of strikes
Advantages and disadvantages of strikes
effects of strikes to workers, employer and the goverment
Weapons used by employees and employer
Strikes and lockouts refer to cessation of work by employees or employers respectively. A strike involves a concerted refusal to work or accept employment by employees. A lockout is an act of hostility by employers where work is stopped. Strikes and lockouts can be justified or unjustified based on the facts and circumstances. Indian law places restrictions on strikes and lockouts in public utilities and during conciliation, arbitration or when a settlement is already in place. Illegal strikes and lockouts can result in penalties for employees and employers under the Industrial Disputes Act.
Explore Oman with Aryaf Jibreen Tourism and get very exclusive package with best quality of services. We offer a complete, orderly and harmonious program tailor made to every personal need.
Oman, a land of awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, beckons travelers with its captivating charm. From the mystical deserts and towering mountains to the pristine coastlines and vibrant souks, Oman Excursions offers a treasure trove of experiences that leave an indelible mark on those who venture here. Embark on a journey of discovery as we explore the extraordinary excursions that await you in Oman, where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modern wonders, creating a tapestry of unforgettable moments.
Thomson Cruises offers a traditional cruising experience on its Spirit ship, with spacious cabins, high-quality entertainment and food, and well-organized excursions. The Red Sea Magic cruise visits historical sites in Jordan such as Wadi Rum and Petra, as well as sites in Egypt like the Pyramids of Giza. Passengers can explore the destinations through affordable shore excursions that provide an up-close cultural experience, despite requiring long bus rides. The cruise offers a step back in time aboard the ship through its British-style atmosphere and classic entertainment.
Connect World Travel & Tourism LLC is a highly experienced Destination Management company based in Dubai that offers tours and activities throughout the Middle East and overseas. They provide various tours of Dubai and surrounding areas, including city tours of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, tours of Sharjah and Ajman, and trips to Al Ain and the East Coast. They also arrange activities like dhow cruises, desert safaris, camel rides, and visits to attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Wild Wadi water park.
Cromwell, December 2015/January 2016, Travel DigestSarah Wrightson
This document summarizes the author's trip exploring the Cromwell region of Central Otago, New Zealand. They rented a car upon arriving in Cromwell and took a personal wine tour with Southern Lakes Limousines & Taxis, visiting several wineries including Mt Difficulty Wines where they had lunch. They also went on scenic helicopter and jet boat rides to experience the landscape from new perspectives. Additional activities included visiting a gold mining center and panning for gold. Day trips from Cromwell base included a farm tour on Lake Wakatipu and a nature cruise in Milford Sound, renowned for its natural beauty.
This 5-day tour of Oman features sightseeing in Muscat, Ibra, Al Mudhreib, Wahiba Sands desert, Wadi Bani Khalid, Ras Al Hadd Turtle Reserve, Sur, Wadi Shab, Fins Beach, and Bimmah Sinkhole. Highlights include watching green sea turtles, desert experiences like sandboarding and camel rides, and beautiful natural sites. The tour is priced from $1049-1249 per person depending on the hotel category. Inclusions are accommodations, transport, entrance fees, visa, and water.
Nizwa was the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries AD. One of the oldest cities in Oman which is surrounded by Mountains. Discover Nizwa Fort, Nizwa souq & Jabal Al Akdhar Mountain while you are in Nizwa.
Oman is undergoing a cultural rebirth that blends ancient traditions with modern advances. The article describes Oman's diverse landscapes from mountains and deserts to coastal cities. It highlights several cities including the capital Muscat, known for its historic forts and mosques, as well as Nizwa, situated in a mountain oasis and home to the well-preserved Nizwa Fort. Oman offers visitors a variety of cultural experiences from exploring historic sites and museums to time spent in souks and spending time in the natural beauty of the desert and mountains.
Este usuario completó un curso de introducción a la programación en C# de manera online el 3 de septiembre de 2013 según un certificado emitido. El certificado felicita al usuario por sus logros y le desea lo mejor en su continuo aprendizaje.
The document provides 3 tips for spreading beauty from one's wedding to the world:
1. Include charitable donations as part of the wedding registry and choose charities passionate about.
2. Purchase items that are environmentally friendly and have good working conditions when possible.
3. Donate unused centerpieces, dresses, or support small businesses through microloans instead of favors.
The National Football League (NFL) is the largest professional American football league, comprised of 32 franchises located in different US cities and regions. It was established in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association and has been the top level of professional American football in the US since the 1960s. The NFL is divided into two conferences, the National Football Conference and the American Football Conference, each with four divisions of four teams each.
Grandma found a baby boy emerging from a peach by the river while doing laundry, and named him Momotaro. Momotaro recruited a monkey, dog, and bird to help him confront demons that were troubling people. Working together, they defeated the demons, allowing the people to live happily again.
The document discusses advice that women receive about weddings from other women in their lives. It notes that the bride received a lot of advice from her mother, grandmother, sisters, colleagues and cousins about things like dress color, season to get married, and more. The bride felt overwhelmed by it all at first but now sees it as a sign of love and support from the important women in her life. She is ready to consider all of their advice as she plans her wedding.
Este documento presenta a Intedya, una consultora internacional presente en más de 15 países que ofrece servicios de consultoría, auditoría y formación en gestión de calidad, medio ambiente, seguridad e inocuidad alimentaria. Intedya se basa en su experiencia para ayudar a los clientes a maximizar su rendimiento y crear valor sostenible. El documento describe la estrategia, valores, equipo, áreas de conocimiento y servicios de Intedya.
O documento descreve a expansão marítima portuguesa e espanhola nos séculos 15 e 16, com destaque para as viagens de Vasco da Gama à Índia em 1498 e de Cristóvão Colombo à América em 1492. Apresenta também as inovações técnicas que possibilitaram as grandes navegações e seus impactos, como a ampliação do conhecimento geográfico do mundo e o deslocamento do eixo econômico para o Atlântico.
Strikes and lockouts, weapons used by employer and employee, advantages and d...Suleyman Ally
meaning of strike and lockout.
types of strikes
Advantages and disadvantages of strikes
effects of strikes to workers, employer and the goverment
Weapons used by employees and employer
Strikes and lockouts refer to cessation of work by employees or employers respectively. A strike involves a concerted refusal to work or accept employment by employees. A lockout is an act of hostility by employers where work is stopped. Strikes and lockouts can be justified or unjustified based on the facts and circumstances. Indian law places restrictions on strikes and lockouts in public utilities and during conciliation, arbitration or when a settlement is already in place. Illegal strikes and lockouts can result in penalties for employees and employers under the Industrial Disputes Act.
Explore Oman with Aryaf Jibreen Tourism and get very exclusive package with best quality of services. We offer a complete, orderly and harmonious program tailor made to every personal need.
Oman, a land of awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, beckons travelers with its captivating charm. From the mystical deserts and towering mountains to the pristine coastlines and vibrant souks, Oman Excursions offers a treasure trove of experiences that leave an indelible mark on those who venture here. Embark on a journey of discovery as we explore the extraordinary excursions that await you in Oman, where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modern wonders, creating a tapestry of unforgettable moments.
Thomson Cruises offers a traditional cruising experience on its Spirit ship, with spacious cabins, high-quality entertainment and food, and well-organized excursions. The Red Sea Magic cruise visits historical sites in Jordan such as Wadi Rum and Petra, as well as sites in Egypt like the Pyramids of Giza. Passengers can explore the destinations through affordable shore excursions that provide an up-close cultural experience, despite requiring long bus rides. The cruise offers a step back in time aboard the ship through its British-style atmosphere and classic entertainment.
Connect World Travel & Tourism LLC is a highly experienced Destination Management company based in Dubai that offers tours and activities throughout the Middle East and overseas. They provide various tours of Dubai and surrounding areas, including city tours of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, tours of Sharjah and Ajman, and trips to Al Ain and the East Coast. They also arrange activities like dhow cruises, desert safaris, camel rides, and visits to attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Wild Wadi water park.
Cromwell, December 2015/January 2016, Travel DigestSarah Wrightson
This document summarizes the author's trip exploring the Cromwell region of Central Otago, New Zealand. They rented a car upon arriving in Cromwell and took a personal wine tour with Southern Lakes Limousines & Taxis, visiting several wineries including Mt Difficulty Wines where they had lunch. They also went on scenic helicopter and jet boat rides to experience the landscape from new perspectives. Additional activities included visiting a gold mining center and panning for gold. Day trips from Cromwell base included a farm tour on Lake Wakatipu and a nature cruise in Milford Sound, renowned for its natural beauty.
This 5-day tour of Oman features sightseeing in Muscat, Ibra, Al Mudhreib, Wahiba Sands desert, Wadi Bani Khalid, Ras Al Hadd Turtle Reserve, Sur, Wadi Shab, Fins Beach, and Bimmah Sinkhole. Highlights include watching green sea turtles, desert experiences like sandboarding and camel rides, and beautiful natural sites. The tour is priced from $1049-1249 per person depending on the hotel category. Inclusions are accommodations, transport, entrance fees, visa, and water.
Nizwa was the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries AD. One of the oldest cities in Oman which is surrounded by Mountains. Discover Nizwa Fort, Nizwa souq & Jabal Al Akdhar Mountain while you are in Nizwa.
Oman is undergoing a cultural rebirth that blends ancient traditions with modern advances. The article describes Oman's diverse landscapes from mountains and deserts to coastal cities. It highlights several cities including the capital Muscat, known for its historic forts and mosques, as well as Nizwa, situated in a mountain oasis and home to the well-preserved Nizwa Fort. Oman offers visitors a variety of cultural experiences from exploring historic sites and museums to time spent in souks and spending time in the natural beauty of the desert and mountains.
This document provides information about Desert Flower Tours, a tourism company in Oman. It outlines their vision to be internationally recognized as a premier tourism provider while showcasing Oman's culture and nature. Their mission is to create new benchmarks through commitment to innovation, service quality, and ensuring safe journeys. The company offers various tour packages ranging from full multi-day tours to half-day excursions, covering destinations across Oman like Muscat, Salalah, and the Wahiba Sands desert.
Around the World by Private Jet (Signature)Eliza Butcher
This document summarizes a 24-day around the world trip by private jet from October 23 to November 15, 2015. The itinerary includes stops in 9 countries across 4 continents, with destinations such as Peru, Easter Island, Australia, Cambodia, India, Tanzania, Jordan, Morocco, and more. The trip costs $72,950 per person with double occupancy or $8,650 for a single supplement. At each destination, various activities and excursions are offered to customize the experience. The document provides details on the itinerary, accommodations, experiences, and services included on the private jet expedition.
Kashmir, known as "Paradise on Earth," captivates with its majestic snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and serene lakes. Esteemed DMC B2B services reveal the region's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Travelers are enchanted by the tranquil beauty of Dal Lake, the vibrant Mughal gardens, and the picturesque meadows of Gulmarg. Whether seeking peace or adventure, Kashmir offers a unique blend of natural splendor and cultural richness, making it a top destination for unforgettable journeys.
Salalah is a city in the Dhofar Governorate of Oman. It is the second-largest city in Oman, after Muscat, and is the capital of the Dhofar Governorate. Salalah is located on the southern coast of Oman, on the Arabian Sea. The city has a population of about 200,000 people.
Salalah is a popular tourist destination, due to its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and historical sites. The city is known for its annual Khareef season, which is a monsoon season that brings lush greenery and cooler temperatures to the region.
Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Salalah include:
• Mughsail Beach: This beach is known for its stunning scenery, including towering cliffs, natural rock formations, and blowholes.
• Wadi Darbat: This wadi is a lush oasis that is home to waterfalls, pools, and palm trees.
• Al Baleed Archaeological Site: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a complex of ancient ruins that date back to the Bronze Age.
• The Museum of the Frankincense Land: This museum tells the story of the history of frankincense, an ancient spice that was once traded throughout the world.
• Sultan Qaboos Mosque: This mosque is the largest in Oman and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
Honeymoon Havens Romantic Getaways for Newlyweds in India.Travel To India
Embark on a captivating journey with "Honeymoon Haven: India Tour," weaving romance into every moment. Embark on a romantic journey with our exclusive Honeymoon Packages, enhanced by the luxury Tempo Traveller rent. Our meticulously crafted itineraries promise newlyweds an intimate escape, blending comfort and seamless adventure. Lets the allure of the journey be as enchanting as the destination itself, as you embark on this unforgettable Honeymoon with india tour packages. website- https://www.traveltoindia.org/india-luxury-tour-package.html
Similar to HKT_Feat_Oman_Jul2016_updated_p8-9 (13)
Honeymoon Havens Romantic Getaways for Newlyweds in India.
HKT_Feat_Oman_Jul2016_updated_p8-9
1. hong kong tatler . month year 32 hong kong tatler . month year
a r a bi a n
a dv ent u r e
Deserts, mountains, oases, beaches, romance, history and
‘murder holes.’ Oman has them all—and luxury to boot,
discovers Samantha Leese
LIFE | TRAVEL
2. hong kong tatler . month year 54 hong kong tatler . month year
When we arrive at the village of Qantab in
the early morning, it’s a deep purple brimming
at the edges with the coming dawn, a silver
crescent moon and a single star pinned above
the dark sea and the shadows of limestone
cliffs. Later, on the water, the sky is brilliant
and big. The sea, reflecting its colour, is a
sparkling vivid turquoise.
We’re in a speedboat whipping north on
the lookout for bottlenose dolphins, which
are frequently spotted along with smaller
spinner dolphins in the Gulf of Oman. Extra
Divers Worldwide runs dolphin-watching
tours twice a day, as well as snorkelling and
scuba diving excursions in the area’s rich
waters. The marina is a quick shuttle ride
from the lobby of Al Husn, the most upscale
of the three hotels that make up Shangri-La’s
sweeping Barr Al Jissah Resort.
We are not disappointed. The wild
dolphins are spirited and fearless, swimming
so close to the boat that you could lean over
and touch them if only they would slow
down. When two fishermen approach our
captain hunting the same tuna the dolphins
eat, he points them in the direction of the
pod we’ve been following, and hands the men
bottles of water and snacks to sustain them
in their work. “They’re my friends,” he says
easily. “We help each other.”
In the evening, we visit the bustling port
district of Muttrah, where seagulls wheel
over the harbour, in which Sultan Qaboos’
royal yacht is docked, and residents stroll
along a picturesque promenade. At the souq,
where lanes radiate from a central dome like
the spokes of a bicycle wheel, we are sold
DIVE IN
A’Dakhliya is dominated by
a 500-kilometre mountain
range with the occasional
swimming hole
he first thing to say about Oman is that
the sky is absolutely cloudless and so
blue that it seems artificial. On a journey
that takes us from the ocean to the
mountains to the desert and back to
the capital, Muscat, through changing
landscapes and along open roads, the
sky is the constant.T masar, the headscarves worn by men, and
jars of frankincense. The resin, drawn from
the Boswellia tree, was Oman’s most valuable
commodity in ancient times, worth more than
gold. Today its bewitching scent is everywhere,
conjuring the mystique that has lured travellers
to Arabia for thousands of years.
After our two-night stay in Muscat, we set
out on a road-trip to the country’s interior, a
region known as A’Dakhliya. The heartland
of northern Oman, it is dominated by the
Hajar (“Rocky”) Mountains, which extend
500 kilometres across the territory. We’re
headed for Jabal Akhdar, the majestic “Green
Mountain” in the highest part of the range,
where Alila, the Singapore-based luxury hotel
brand, opened a jaw-dropping 86-room resort
in 2014. We expect the infrastructure, so well
maintained around the capital, to deteriorate
as we drive, but instead we encounter clear
road signs in Arabic and English, Katy Perry
on the radio, and wide, smooth stretches
of asphalt that could rival the freeways of
North America. Chauffeured cars and taxis
are available for hire, but the best advice we
received by far was to rent a reliable SUV and
drive ourselves. There’s true luxury in the
freedom it affords and we never felt unsafe.
The Sultanate of Oman, which borders
Yemen, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab
Emirates, is among the most progressive
countries in the region. That said, travellers
are advised to keep their knees and shoulders
covered out of respect for local customs—an
academic point 2,000 metres above sea level,
where night-time temperatures can drop to
below freezing in the winter months.
images:stefanoechsner;JulienCapmeil/ArtPartnerLicensing/Raven&Snow(diver)
LIFE | TRAVEL
3. hong kong tatler . month year 76 hong kong tatler . month year
It’s February when we visit and luckily
we’ve just missed an especially cold snap. We
arrive at Alila Jabal Akhdar after a pleasant
three-hour journey to warm sunshine and a
refreshing breeze. We’re out on the hotel’s
main viewing deck before they can even check
us in, awed by the landscape’s magnificence—
the plunging canyons, azure sky, the arid
plateau with tufts of juniper trees and, on and
on, like mythical beasts, the shapes of other
mountains in the distance.
The eco-friendly retreat is accessible only
by four-wheel-drive vehicles (there’s a police
checkpoint at the bottom of the 50-minute
climb to turn back unsuitable cars) and the
rewards are worth every steep switchback
and unexpected donkey crossing. It’s the only
hotel this high and certainly the only luxury
property for miles—at least until Anantara’s
Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort opens later this
year. At times it’s so quiet and the eye can
travel so far that the experience of just sitting
on your balcony, and looking, and listening,
feels transformative.
The Alila’s thoughtful stone and wood
design was inspired by the nearby abandoned
village of Sirab. The trek there, which takes
you along a rocky, dry riverbed, is not the
stroll we imagined and requires good shoes,
but if you’re reasonably fit and not bothered
by the goats that inhabit the valley, it’s a
must. For those who’d prefer to relax, there’s
an open-air yoga deck, heated indoor and
outdoor pools, a wonderful spa, and plenty of
comfortable spaces in the suites and villas to
curl up and read.
To refresh yourself after an energetic hike,
the perfect elixir is a glass of pomegranate
juice at the Rose Lounge. One of the hotel’s
two F&B venues—the B being a recent
development, as the resort did not originally
serve alcohol—the lounge named for the
flower that blankets the slopes between
March and May. These are harvested to make
rosewater, a staple of Omani households used
to perfume the hands after meals.
While we’ve experienced no shortage
of Arabian flavours on our travels, specific
Omani cuisine has proved to be elusive. Our
attempts to seek it out have been met with
bemusement and suggestions that we dine
at Lebanese, Moroccan or Indian restaurants
instead. Majid, a member of Alila Jabal
Akhdar’s capable team of concierges, explains
that local food is very simple, usually fish or
meat with rice. Our dinners at Juniper, the
hotel’s restaurant, feature tagines, biryanis,
cous cous, barbequed meats and vegetable
soups, all well portioned and delicious.
We were awed by the landscape’s
magnificence—the plunging canyons,
azure sky, the arid plateau with tufts
of juniper trees
HEAVEN AND EARTH
Clockwise from top left:
A view from the seafaring
city of Sur; poolside at Alila
Jabal Akhdar; dune tracks
at Wahiba Sands; Alila Jabal
Akhdar looks out over ancient
rugged mountains; historic
Nizwa Fort
LIFE | TRAVEL
4. hong kong tatler . month year 98 hong kong tatler . month year
Samantha’s itinerary in Oman can be booked
through Lightfoot Travel, a luxury tailor-
made tour company with offices in Hong Kong,
Singapore and Dubai. lightfoottravel.com
The sultan of Oman has celebrated the
ancient capital of Nizwa as “the citadel where
the glory of our country originated… which
has been the home of great leaders and the
sanctuary of intellectuals, scholars, poets and
men of literature.” A visit to Nizwa Fort is
certainly a worthwhile day trip from the Alila.
The ochre-coloured complex, built of stone
and saruj (a kind of traditional cement), gives
a fascinating insight into Omani history, as
does the Nizwa bazaar, which is at its most
vibrant during the weekly goat auctions on
Friday mornings.
There are few other tourists when we
arrive at midday and we often feel we have
the labyrinthine heritage site to ourselves.
The castle, which was constructed in the 9th
century and expanded in the 17th, houses a
small, informative museum. As well as the
displays, fascinating stories are to be found
in its walls and floors, in the “murder holes”,
for example, through which boiling date juice
(the fruit grows abundantly in Oman) would
be poured on invaders.
The sky expands as we leave the mountains
for Wahiba Sands, the land of the Bedouin.
Here is the Arabian desert of our imagination,
where towering dunes of fine red sand
undulate beneath a sheet of striking blue.
Camels appear as we drive along the unpaved
road to Desert Nights Camp, the scene
unfolding like a picture book come to life. The
creatures are larger and more graceful, less
goofy, than we’d expected.
The camp is comfortable rather than
opulent and the service is good. A schedule
of activities, including quad biking and camel
rides, is offered at check-in, where we are
welcomed with dates and Omani cardamom-
Petals of roses from the Jebel
Akhdar region are collected over
a few weeks every spring and
are used to produce Oman’s
famous rose water.
Oudh, a fragrant ebony-coloured
resin, is prized for its scent. Raw
or perfume-soaked oudh chips
used in incense burn with a
sweet, loamy smell.
SCENTS OF OMAN
The sultanate is a source not only of the world’s finest frankincense,
but also perfumed oils, hand-blended incense and other aromatics
The world’s most sought-after
frankincense comes from Oman.
The locals burn it to fumigate
and perfume their homes and to
ritually purify public spaces.
spiced coffee. Sure enough, we discover this is
not a place for chilling out—something about
the landscape makes you feel restless.
We go on a camel safari at sunset, riding out
with a guide who leads his animals on foot. The
camels are sweet-natured, accustomed to their
loads, and the experience is peaceful. When
the colour of the sky shifts towards indigo, we
dismount and climb barefoot to the ridge of a
dune to watch the full glowing circle of the sun
sink below the horizon.
The coastal road back to Muscat takes us
through the historic seafaring city of Sur. On
the map we use to supplement the car’s GPS,
little blue capillaries mark the nearby riverbed
oases. These are sites of mesmerising natural
beauty, which can be found throughout the
country, and are a point of pride for Omanis.
At the mouth of Wadi Shab, a small sum gets
us across the water to the opening of a sheer
limestone gorge, the sight of which is so
tremendous we are struck still by it.
To experience Oman at its most enchanting,
you’ll need an interest in nature and at least a
modest sense of adventure, and if you possess
those, the country should be at the top of your
bucket list.
On the last day of our trip, the clouds
finally come, cirrus streaks lined with gold
from the setting sun. The sky dims to violet,
the sea a shimmering midnight blue. We
watch from the beach in Qantab where our
travels started and are now ending.
MAN’s BEST FRIEND
A Bedouin guide tends
his camels during a
sunset safari at Desert
Nights Camp
Amouage, Oman’s
prestigious and only
international fragrance
house, is among the world’s
most expensive brands.
LIFE | TRAVEL