The Sultanate of Oman sits on the edge of the Middle East region, with a long and glorious coastline on the Arabian Sea. A progressive and future-facing nation, it is often overlooked for its flashier neighbours – all the better for the travellers starting to catch on to Oman’s many wonders, there are less people to share them with!

Here, a modern face thinly veils a thoroughly ancient soul, and many traditional values remain ingrained in the national psyche: the locals pride themselves on their hospitality, so a very warm welcome is guaranteed.

After soaking up the relaxed and friendly vibes of capital Muscat, it’s time to explore Oman’s greatest boon, its nature. From quaint fishing villages perched on dramatic sweeps of coastline from which you can watch old wooden fishing dhows plying turquoise waters, to the rolling sand dunes and towering red cliffs that you pass as you travel between lush oases, there is so much to explore in this undiscovered gem.