Oman

Salalah’s southern mango and coconut groves mix with banana plantations and frankincense trees. Wandering camels are often the only obstacles along the sweeping roads above Wadi Darbat—perfect for a spin on two wheels. Al Baleed Resort Anantara provides a relaxed beachfront base in the heart of Salalah, while an hour north lies Alila Hinu Bay, a contemporary hideaway set on a private bay and ideal for a coastal hike.

A 1.5-hour flight north brings you closer to the Wahiba Sands. Arrive to a classic Arabian Nights setting – think crimson dunes, Bedouin hospitality, camel treks, and star-filled skies. Stay at Magic Camp, a tented camp with all the comforts (yes toilet!) set among towering sands. For a more remote experience, head out to the Empty Quarter – one of the world’s largest deserts – to a private mobile camp. THIS is what feels like to be on the edge of the world!

Next up, the Al Hajar Mountain region is home to some of Oman’s most rewarding terrain and cultural immersion. Terraced pomegranate orchards, ancient footpaths, and canyon-side hamlets dot the landscape, while goat herders carrying khanjars (traditional daggers) welcome travelers with dates and Omani coffee. Alila Jabal Akhdar, at 6,500 feet, is our favorite retreat—dramatically set on the cliffside with direct access to sweeping ridge-top rides, endless horizons, and the 500-year-old stone village of Suwgra, reachable only by foot.

At the foot of the mountains lies Nizwa, Oman’s cultural heart. Its 17th-century fort, bustling souq, Bronze Age settlements, and Friday livestock market reveal both ancient beginnings and contemporary vibrancy. Stay in the pedestrian-only old town, just minutes by foot from the fort, in a renovated heritage home, Bait Al Muallem. The surrounding region – mud-brick villages scattered among wadi-fed date plantations – is ideal for active exploration. Cycle to Old Hamra to be welcomed into a traditional Omani home. Wander the winding stone paths of Misfat Al Abriyeen, a centuries old village clinging to the side of the mountain. A short drive away is the new Oman Across the Ages Museum.

Jumping north to the Gulf of Oman, the capital city of Muscat blends urban energy with coastal calm. Highlights include the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, empty beaches, and quiet roads that traverse rolling hills and empty wadis. There are myriad places to stay.  The Chedi Muscat, Mandarin Oriental, and Jumeirah Muscat Bay are among the best coastal retreats offering relaxed beach time plus easy access to Muscat’s cultural gems. Cruise a traditional dhow to the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve. Snorkel colorful coral reefs while swimming with sea turtles and dolphins.

Not to be forgotten – on the Arabian Sea at the far tip of the Musandam Peninsula – and a quick hop from Dubai – Six Senses Zighy Bay sits in a cinematic bay of mountains and sea, offering robust hiking, riding among fjord-like inlets, and one of travel’s most memorable arrivals: paragliding to the beach. A luxe oasis in the desert!