Brits looking to trade in the cold weather this winter for a bit of sun should consider Oman, a travel expert has said. Located on the south-east coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman offers a mix of “quality and culture” and plenty of options when it comes to places to stay, according to personal holiday planner Gilly Bachelor.
She told the Daily Express, “For those searching for a medium-haul winter sun destination, I would look at Oman. It’s slightly trickier to get to than Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but it offers a great mix of quality and culture. While a lot of people find Dubai too much, Oman can be a better balance.”
Gilly suggested that while Oman is a popular stop on cruise ship travel itineraries, it is well worth stopping for a longer visit, with its wide-ranging offer of desert, beach hotel and resort stays.
Brits looking for adventure can try sand surfing, dune bashing in a 4X4 and snorkelling while those seeking a more relaxing rest have Oman’s warm seas and sun at their disposal.
Average temperatures in Oman during the summer range from 34C in May to a scorching 35C in June and July. But the mercury drops in October, November and December to 30C, 26C and 23C respectively.
Must-see attractions include Mutrah Souq in Muscat, where vendors sell Omani crafts, antiques, textiles and jewellery. The city’s Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a “glorious” example of Islamic architecture.
Two hours away from Muscat is Wadi Ghul, hailed as the Grand Canyon of Arabia and near Oman’s tallest mountain, Jebel Shams. October to November are recommended as the best months to visit, as the lower temperatures make trekking more comfortable.
Gilly said Oman also offers lots of choice when it comes to accommodation. A package deal including flights, transfers and bed and board at luxury Al Jabal Hotel in the southern city of Salalah costs £2,000 per person.
Six nights in October at The Club by Fanar in the same spot for two adults at the time of writing costs £1,223. But there are plenty of other options depending on budgets, including £320 for a double room at Al Falaj Hotel in Muscat in October or Duqm Express for £422. Another option during a stay in Oman is to spend a night or two camping in the desert under the stars.
While there are direct flights from the UK to Oman, they are less frequent than well-connected Dubai and Abu Dhabi. On average, flights from the UK to Oman take just over seven hours. Oman Air is the only carrier that flies to the country, according to Skyscanner.
The flight checking website said November is usually the cheapest time to fly, with routes to Muscat, Salalah, Duqm and Khasab.
You can visit Oman for up to 14 days without a visa. To enter the country, your passport must have at least six months left after your arrival date, according to the Foreign Office.
For more independent travel advice visit Gilly Bachelor Travel Expert.