Today, Oman displays many unique features including an unspoiled culture and traditional lifestyle. The people are friendly and welcoming. The natural elements of Oman combine to portray a country of beauty, grace and reverence.

Muscat is the capital city and the seat of a thriving and strategically located port since ancient times. There is a medieval charm created by the old Portuguese forts, Jelali and Merani, flanking the rocky cove around which the city is built, making it a unique and unusually exotic location. Muscat, the historic and picturesque city, is infused with modern commercial and residential quarters further lending the city an ambiance of its own.

Muscat

The largest city in southern Oman, Salalah has a distinctive appeal. Here, the coconut groves and banana plantations hug the seashore. Beautiful beaches of white sand welcome all who enjoy the sun and surf. A rugged beauty is found in the surrounding fertile plains where freshwater springs nurture the vegetation. The unforgettable souq experience and tropical landscape will leave you with pleasant memories long after your vacation is over.

In the northeast province of Sharquia is a seafaring town, a fishing village and a trading port all rolled into one and called Sur. A featured highlight of the town is the dhow builder's yard on the coast just beyond town. Sur was involved in trade with the African coast as early as the 16th century A.D. A stroll among the maze of SurA^'s streets will reveal many fine old houses with carved doors, arabesque windows and other intricate details.

Wahibah Sand

The capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, Nizwa is today the largest city of the interior province. Tourists flock to this oasis not only for the historical buildings and ancient fort, but also for the fabulous bargains on silver and copper jewellery found in the souq. Formed along the course of two wadis, the town features an immense palm oasis stretching over eight kilometres. Bahla is a town near to Nizwa that is well worth a visit if only to view the fort noted among World Heritage sites for its unique design and history.

Once the largest city in the country and a prominent Islamic seaport, Sohar retains a classic coastal perspective. Visitors the world over are drawn to the large and bustling souq where it is possible to bargain on everything from soup to nuts to suits and fish. A sight not to miss is the imposing fort overlooking the bay with its four-story walls and six towers.

This is the principle coastal city of the rocky province of Musandam. Khasab is a small town of peaceful estuaries and palm trees. There is a restored 16th century Portuguese fort dominating the picturesque landscape.

Fort Von Nakhl

The Buraimi Oasis is shared with the border town of Al-Ain in the United Arab Emirates. Visitors can move freely between the two towns, making it a great way to catch a glimpse of the UAE without having to obtain a visa. A remarkable contrast can be seen between the two sister communities. The restored 400-year-old Al-Khandaq Fort in Buraimi is well worth a visit, as is the Buraimi Souq next to the Al-Hilla Fort.

A wealth of opportunity abounds within Oman for scuba divers, nature photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Rock climbing, caving, camel racing and camping in the desert will keep even the most demanding adventurer satisfied. For the passive sightseer there are the Omani-style bull fights where two Brahma bulls square off, butt heads until one turns to run and is declared the loser. The fight lasts just a few minutes and the animals suffer little or no injury, except for a few scratches and a bruised ego on the part of both the losing bull and its owner. Shopping is undeniably a favourite pastime for visitors to Oman where local artisans craft exquisite products ranging from carved silver to woven handicrafts. Above all, Oman is a delightful combination of breathtaking landscapes, interesting cities and hospitable people making it a terrific vacation playground.