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Traveling to Oman means embarking on an unforgettable and unique adventure. The vibrant cities (especially the capital Muscat), the vast desert landscapes, the paradisiacal beaches and the imposing mountain scenery will leave you speechless. What many people don't know: Oman is the oldest independent state in the Arab world. Its rich past has turned the sultanate into a true cultural kaleidoscope. The country is also considered a safe travel destination that caters to those seeking peace and quiet as well as adventurers. Unlike Dubai with its splendor and parties, Oman knows how to inspire with quiet luxury and profound experiences. There's no shortage of exclusive hotels and resorts here, as well as inspiring architectural buildings, first-class cuisine and exciting markets, known here as souks, where you can find ceramics, jewelry and incense, among other things.

The vibrant capital

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With over 1.6 million inhabitants, the capital Muscat is a lively metropolis that moves between tradition and modernity. Dazzling mosques, historic fortresses and impressive museums meet endless waterfront promenades, delicious gastronomy and souks, saturated with the scent of incense. A visit to the Great Sultan Qabus Mosque is a must see on the bucket list. As one of the largest mosques in the world, it's one of the most important buildings in the country. Probably the best hotel in the city is The Chedi Muscat, a luxurious beach resort and a timeless oasis of modern elegance. Contemporary design meets oriental comfort in its 162 spacious rooms. With six award-winning restaurants and lounges (including a particularly romantic restaurant on the beach), a Balinese spa, three pools and a health club, the resort embodies outstanding Arab hospitality down to the last detail. Highlights include the cozy shisha courtyard, where you can enjoy balmy evenings with traditional water pipes.

The Chedi Muscat
133 18th November St, Muscat, Oman
Tel: +968 24 524400
Web: ghmhotels.com
Price: Doubles from € 438

The vastness of the desert

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When traveling to Oman, a trip to the seemingly endless dunes shouldn't be missed. The vast deserts are best explored in the company of experienced guides. With Canvas Club, you have experts at your side, who have been offering tailor-made and exclusive tours for over a decade. The Canvas Club glamping camp of the same name invites you to spend an unforgettable night under the stars: You sleep in the impressive desert Rimal Al Wahiba in dreamlike tents that offer every imaginable luxury - including a cozy bed and a private bathing tent with a hot shower. Boredom is definitely not an option: In addition to a ride on a camel, you can look forward to traditional rides on a dhow boat or book a tour in a hot air balloon or a helicopter flight. The particularly brave have the chance to get an adrenaline rush on the new zipline in Musandam.

Web: canvascluboman.com

High on the green mountain

Alila Jabal Akhdar © beigestellt

Jabal Akhdar is just a few hours away from Muscat - the so called green mountain delights with breathtaking views and provides a welcome cooling. Not only is rose water and honey produced here, but pomegranates, walnuts, peaches and more also grow in the fertile Hajar Mountains. The resort Alila Jabal Akhdar is enthroned at an altitude of around 2000 meters, a peaceful retreat surrounded by indescribable beauty. Characterized by historic Omani fortresses, the hotel's villas and suites combine the history of the region with sophisticated luxury and supreme comfort. Guests can enjoy the delicious flavors of authentic local cuisine in the open air: The Juniper restaurant serves a carefully curated menu inspired by the golden age of Arabic cuisine, while light bites and refreshing drinks await in the Rose Lounge. In the spa, guests are pampered with traditional Asian healing methods while marveling at the amazing views of the mountains from the pool.

Alila Jabal Akhdar
Al Roose, Jabal Al Akhdar 621, Oman
Tel.: +968 25 344200
Web: alilahotels.com
Price: Doubles from € 729

Time out on the beach

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Finally, the journey leads to Salalah, the capital of Dhofar in the south of Oman. This is the home of the Boswellia sacra tree, which produces the most precious frankincense in the world. In addition to green oases, the region attracts visitors with free beaches and turquoise blue water. Not far from Salalah is the luxurious Alila Hinu Bay, which is appreciated for its modern design, its tried-and-tested healing methods and a mixture of Southeast Asian, Mediterranean and Omani top-class cuisine. A highlight is the deluxe pool villa with a large pergola, outdoor bathtub and its own infinity pool. In the spa, you can choose from tailor-made treatments and then relax with a yoga or meditation session. The treasures of the region can be explored from the hotel - the beautiful Wadi Darbat valley and the idyllic fishing town of Mirbat are particularly worth a visit. For a romantic evening for two, the experienced team at the Oman specialist Canvas Club can organize a dinner under the stars on request.

Alila Hinu Bay
Wilayat of Mirbat, Dhofar, Oman
Tel: +968 2337 3300
Web: alilahotels.com
Price: Doubles from € 262