Did you know TUI organised tours? Well I have been fortunate enough to experience their amazing Classical Oman tour. We flew with Oman Air on an overnight flight into Muscat. Leg room was good and yes they served alcohol too!
Our first night was at the 5* Kempinski in Muscat – just wow! How amazing to have a city hotel on a beautiful beach, only a 5-10 min walk to the marina too!
Our Amazing Activities
During our stay here we visited the oldest souks in Oman and the Grand Mosque which was just a beautiful building with finely manicured gardens. It was so interesting to hear about their culture and family values. We had a bit of fun making sure we were adequately dressed but got there in the end.
Next were driven by 4×4’s up to Jebel Shams where the temperature dropped by 20 degrees and it started to rain! Something I didn’t think I would experience in Oman in September. We stayed at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort with a beautiful view over the Canyon. They showed us where Princess Diana sat and read her book whilst she visited with Prince Charles! There are loads of activities in the area from zip lining, hiking and bike rides or just relax in your hotel spa!
Onwards to Nizwa to visit the largest museum in Oman where we learnt how far this country has come from 1970 when they only had three schools (boys only), two hospitals and they didn’t even have electricity! The new Sultan in 1970 pledged that he would travel and implement the things he learnt to develop his own country for the better.
We also enjoyed the Nizwa Souq and Nizwa Fort.
Now, the part I am looking forward to the most is ‘Desert Nights’ in Wahiba Desert with a 4×4 dune safari, staying in a desert camp overnight. Camels, goats, geko’s you can find them all here!
After a delicious breakfast we head towards Wadi Bani Khaled for a swim in a wadi – fish nibbling included for free!
We enjoyed our final night by staying at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in Muscat. Three hotels make up this beachfront complex including a family friendly and 6* adults only options. The perfect end to our interesting and educational tour.
Final Thoughts
I would highly recommend a tour to Oman, it’s not as commercialised as its neighbouring countries but has plenty of interesting sights for tourists to enjoy. The history is interesting, the people friendly, kind and caring with great community spirit. A great place to experience a city, the mountains and the desert all in one adventure!
I was also lucky enough to be on this educational! It’s how I met Katherine and organised a phonecall with Paula.
I echo Katherine’s experience. Definitely worth a visit and the people really are so lovely and friendly 😊