When in search of a guaranteed-sunshine break in the Middle East, most people think of the beaches, brunch bars and shimmering sky scrapers of flashy, in-your-face Dubai.
© Photo: RexSultanate of Oman
© Photo: RexThe Royal Cavalry of the Sultanate of Oman the Queen
© Photo: RexExcursions to visit the jaw-dropping wadis can be arranged via Arabia Orient Tours arabicaorient.com
It's a seven hour flight from London, and with some good planning you can cover much of the tourist trail's tick list in one exotic, dreamy long weekend. Here, HELLO! Online shows you how...Camp out in the desert
© Photo: RexHELLO! 1000nightscamp.comGo dune bashingarabicaorient.com)Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat
Grab a bargain at the Mutrah Souq
The Mutrah Souq dates back around 200 years and is one of the oldest markets in Oman, selling everything from frankincense, incense, Arabian perfumes and handicrafts like silverware, daggers, traditional cloth, new apparel and shoes. You can also pick up gorgeous souvenirs – HELLO! Online bought cushion covers, pashminas and a cuddly toy camel. Unlike other souqs you may have visited, there is no hassle here. The shopkeepers are friendly and don’t pressurise you into buying; you're free to browse without being pestered. This Souq goes by another name among the Omanis: the Market of Darkness, due to its myriad of alleys and roads lined by shops that block the sun during the day. Just don't get lost!Have a romantic dinner at The Chedi
The Chedi – the home of Muscat's largest spa - is one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. But if you don't have the budget for a stay there, why not go for dinner in the chic, marble courtyard followed by a cocktail by the Long Pool instead? Bag a day bed underneath the palms and relax. After all that sight-seeing, you've earned it!For more information about Oman visit Oman Tourism omantourism.gov.om
