From Muscat’s grand mosques and vibrant souks to the mountains of Jebel Akhdar, the deserts of Wahiba Sands, and hidden oases like Wadi Bani Khalid, this Oman journey blends stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
By Jo Dickie
Reservations Manager
Arrival in Muscat
Our adventure began in Muscat, guided by Khalid and Salim. The city immediately impressed me with its elegance and charm. We started at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, where Swarovski chandeliers glittered above the largest rug in the world. I loved soaking in the calm and beauty of the main prayer room, then stepping outside to admire polished marble floors and arches framing the mountains, it was truly inspiring.
Exploring the City and Mountains
Next, we visited the Royal Opera House. I was fascinated by the meticulous attention to detail, even the violin print on the seats! Afterward, the bustling Muttrah Souk offered a sensory overload of frankincense, spices, trinkets, and incredible jewellery shops.
Lunch at Jumeirah Muscat Bay gave us a moment to relax by the bay, before heading to The Chedi for dinner. Its tented, majlis-style entrance and fire-lit gardens created a warm, cosy atmosphere, perfectly blending traditional Omani touches with contemporary elegance.
A night at Al Bustan Palace was followed by a visit to Amouage Perfumery, where I learned how their bottles are decorated and sampled some signature scents.
Leaving the city behind, we headed to the mountains. In Nizwa, once Oman’s capital, we explored the bustling markets and the 2,000-year-old fort. Outside the city, the date palm groves and spice markets were enchanting.
A ride through the walled city in an electric cart revealed the Falaj system, an ancient irrigation method channeling mountain water into the city. Then we continued by 4×4 to Jebel Akhdar, where the panoramic views from Hotel Indigo were breathtaking. Watching the sunset from the rooftop was magical.
Khalid and Salim showed us a 500-year-old village tucked in a valley, built into cliffs. Mud-brick buildings cling to the rock face, connected by narrow winding paths and a rope bridge. Even a zip line is used to deliver goods! Stopping for coffee and dates, I felt like I had stepped back in time it’s truly special.
The Desert: Wahiba Sands
From the mountains, we drove to Wahiba Sands, counting camels along the way. The dunes stretched endlessly, and Desert Nights Camp offered the perfect base. Later, we drove out to see the Milky Way, an unforgettable desert sky experience.
Our next stop was Wadi Bani Khalid, where I swam in turquoise pools with tiny fish tickling my toes, a hidden oasis. From there, we travelled to Sur, a coastal town where traditional dhow builders continue their craft, preserving centuries of maritime heritage.
Returning to Muscat, we stayed at the St. Regis in Al Mouj, a trendy area with modern vibes. On our last morning, we enjoyed a dhow cruise along Muscat’s coastline, passing ancient Portuguese forts and Al Alam Palace. Seeing the city from the sea gave me a real appreciation for Oman’s balance of history and natural beauty.
Reflections on Oman
Our trip was short but unforgettable. In just a few days, I experienced so much yet still feel there’s more to discover. Oman’s landscapes are breathtaking, but it’s the warmth and generosity of its people that truly stays with you. I honestly can’t wait to return.
From Muscat’s grand mosques and vibrant souks to the mountains of Jebel Akhdar, the deserts of Wahiba Sands, and hidden oases like Wadi Bani Khalid, this Oman journey blends stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
By Jo Dickie
Reservations Manager
Arrival in Muscat
Our adventure began in Muscat, guided by Khalid and Salim. The city immediately impressed me with its elegance and charm. We started at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, where Swarovski chandeliers glittered above the largest rug in the world. I loved soaking in the calm and beauty of the main prayer room, then stepping outside to admire polished marble floors and arches framing the mountains, it was truly inspiring.
Exploring the City and Mountains
Next, we visited the Royal Opera House. I was fascinated by the meticulous attention to detail, even the violin print on the seats! Afterward, the bustling Muttrah Souk offered a sensory overload of frankincense, spices, trinkets, and incredible jewellery shops.
Lunch at Jumeirah Muscat Bay gave us a moment to relax by the bay, before heading to The Chedi for dinner. Its tented, majlis-style entrance and fire-lit gardens created a warm, cosy atmosphere, perfectly blending traditional Omani touches with contemporary elegance.
A night at Al Bustan Palace was followed by a visit to Amouage Perfumery, where I learned how their bottles are decorated and sampled some signature scents.
Leaving the city behind, we headed to the mountains. In Nizwa, once Oman’s capital, we explored the bustling markets and the 2,000-year-old fort. Outside the city, the date palm groves and spice markets were enchanting.
A ride through the walled city in an electric cart revealed the Falaj system, an ancient irrigation method channeling mountain water into the city. Then we continued by 4×4 to Jebel Akhdar, where the panoramic views from Hotel Indigo were breathtaking. Watching the sunset from the rooftop was magical.
Khalid and Salim showed us a 500-year-old village tucked in a valley, built into cliffs. Mud-brick buildings cling to the rock face, connected by narrow winding paths and a rope bridge. Even a zip line is used to deliver goods! Stopping for coffee and dates, I felt like I had stepped back in time it’s truly special.
The Desert: Wahiba Sands
From the mountains, we drove to Wahiba Sands, counting camels along the way. The dunes stretched endlessly, and Desert Nights Camp offered the perfect base. Later, we drove out to see the Milky Way, an unforgettable desert sky experience.
Our next stop was Wadi Bani Khalid, where I swam in turquoise pools with tiny fish tickling my toes, a hidden oasis. From there, we travelled to Sur, a coastal town where traditional dhow builders continue their craft, preserving centuries of maritime heritage.
Returning to Muscat, we stayed at the St. Regis in Al Mouj, a trendy area with modern vibes. On our last morning, we enjoyed a dhow cruise along Muscat’s coastline, passing ancient Portuguese forts and Al Alam Palace. Seeing the city from the sea gave me a real appreciation for Oman’s balance of history and natural beauty.
Reflections on Oman
Our trip was short but unforgettable. In just a few days, I experienced so much yet still feel there’s more to discover. Oman’s landscapes are breathtaking, but it’s the warmth and generosity of its people that truly stays with you. I honestly can’t wait to return.
Michelle Laldenga, Senior Reservations Consultant, shares her stay on Denis Private Island, a peaceful Seychelles retreat where nature, privacy, and simple island living take centre stage.
Matt Phillips of Travel Chaps explores the Maldives’ shift from its traditional honeymoon reputation to a more family-focused island escape, visiting four standout resorts: Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Heritance Aarah, Constance Halaveli, and Constance Moofushi.
As travel picks up back to Oman, Lisa, Senior Reservations Consultant, has just returned after experiencing one of the country’s most talked-about luxury resorts.
We asked our agents, who recently joined us on a fam trip to Mauritius, which Beachcomber Resort stood out as their favourite and here’s what they told us.
Denise Jaye, a former employee at Beachcomber Tours, shares her recent experience of staying at Adaaran Select Meedhapparu in the Maldives, offering an honest insight into what it’s really like from arrival through to departure.
From Muscat’s grand mosques and vibrant souks to the mountains of Jebel Akhdar, the deserts of Wahiba Sands, and hidden oases like Wadi Bani Khalid, this Oman journey blends stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
Mary Moran, Senior Reservations Consultant, described her trip to Dhigali as unforgettable, noting that encounters with playful dolphins and breathtaking sunsets made the escape truly magical.
Recently, Sarah, had the pleasure of heading to Mauritius on a very special agents’ trip, but this time, we brought some junior travel agents along: their children. It was the perfect opportunity to see just how family-friendly Beachcomber Hotels & Resorts really are, and to share some special moments with……
In June 2025, Michelle Laldenga visited eight Maldives resorts, including Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Heritance Aarah, and Emerald Maldives, experiencing the ultimate Atoll exploring.
In November 2024, Jodi spent a week island hopping in the Seychelles, with Platte Island standing out as a highlight. She stayed at the newly opened Waldorf Astoria, which has transformed the once uninhabited island into a refined and secluded retreat.
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WIN A LUXURY MAURITIUS HOLIDAY
To celebrate the launch of our brand-new website, we’re running two exclusive competitions, one for our customers and one for our travel agent partners. Both winners will enjoy the ultimate island escape with a 7-night stay for two at the newly refurbished Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa, one of Mauritius’ most exceptional resorts.
