Travel time
1 hour
How to get there
Etihad Airways flies to Muscat daily with Jul-Sep fares currently starting at Dhsi1,225
Hot hotel deals
Al Bustan Palace: Nestled among the mountains, Al Bustan Palace has one of the most impressive lobbies and swimming pools Time Out has ever seen. If you stay here before September 2010 for two nights you will receive the third night free, plus you can enjoy an early check-in of 10am and late check-out of 4pm. You will also receive a free upgrade, roll-away child’s bed and breakfast.
+968 2479 9666; www.ichotelsgroup.com
InterContinental Muscat: Perfectly positioned at the heart of the city, but still with spectacular views of the sea and natural surroundings, InterContinental Muscat is offering a free upgrade and free night’s stay when you pay for two nights before September, 2010. You can also enjoy early check-in and late check-out times, along with a complimentary roll-away bed if you have a little one in tow.
+968 2468 0000; www.ichotelsgroup.com
Zighy Bay: We love, love, love this laidback, eco-friendly getaway, tucked up in a Hajar Mountain cove. During the summer (before August 31), GCC residents can stay two nights for the price of one, with children under 12 staying for free. Simply quote ‘GCC residents’ when booking.
+968 26735 888; www.sixsenses.com/Six-Senses-Hideaway-Zighy-Bay
Crowne Plaza Muscat: Nestled on a cliff over-looking the Gulf of Oman, Crowne Plaza offers a unique location as well as the chance for a complimentary night’s stay, free upgrade, 10am check-in and 4pm check-out along with a free child’s bed, and all you need to do is pay for two nights’ stay before September 2010.
+968 2466 0660; www.ichotelsgroup.com
Five must dos
1 Go underground: Oman has some of the biggest underground caves in the world – start by exploring the Selma cave system.
Oman World Tourism +968 9505 1996; www.omanworld tourism.com
2 Meet the turtles: From June to September the beaches at Ras Al Jinz are teeming with turtles emerging from the sea to lay their eggs and babies running back to the water.
Ras Al Jinz Scientific & Visitor Centre (+968 9655 0606; www.rasaljinz.org)
3 Trek the Hajar Mountains: We would recommend scaling Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak at more than 3,000m, and then peering down into the gaping canyons below.
Oman World Tourism
4 Dive into the ocean: The pristine clear waters of the Gulf of Oman boast a vast array of marine life – you may even spot some dolphins.
Oman Diving Centre (+968 2482 4240)
5 Walk the wadis: A trip to Wadi Al Hail will involve hiking, canyoning, swimming and abseiling, all while you admire the towering, lush green rocks and crystal clear water beds.
Oman World Tourism
