OVERVIEW
If you are interested in spending your honeymoon in a romantic Middle-eastern location steeped in culture and tradition then look no further than Oman. Nestled on the eastern portion of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by Yemen, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Oman is a nation with a proud sea-faring heritage and thousands of years of history, yet is also a land which was only opened to foreign visitors from 1970. Since then the country has gone from strength to strength, developing rapidly, yet at the same time proudly maintaining its time-honoured traditions and rich culture.
Begin your honeymoon in Oman in the elegant capital of Muscat, a historic port city which effortlessly toes the line between tradition and modernity. Here you can stay in a luxurious hotel and glide around air-conditioned shopping malls if you so desire, but it’s a lot more fun to visit cultural sites such as the Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House; you can also mingle with the locals and have an authentic Arabian shopping experience, picking over pieces of jewellery and eyeing Omani daggers at Mutrah Souq, on the Corniche. Finish off your retail therapy with a Turkish coffee at a traditional coffeehouse, or perhaps a tasty shawarma. If you are staying at one of Muscat’s luxurious hotels by the sea you can also fill your days with plenty of swimming, sunbathing and water sports, or just relax by the pool with a drink at your elbow.
Alternatively, if you’re eager for some adventure on your exotic Oman honeymoon why not hire a 4WD and depart from Muscat to experience the rugged glory of the Al Hajar Mountains. Book yourself into the Alila hotel perched on the Jebel Akhdar plateau and soak up the truly breath-taking scenery. Fascinating tours and cultural excursions are available.
For something a little different, set your sights on Masirah Island, situated off Oman’s eastern coastline; this 95km-long isle is home to pristine stretches of beach, with those on the western shores of the island being preferable for swimming. Four species of turtle come here to breed – if you are lucky you may seem them up close and personal as you snorkel just off-shore. During your stay on Masirah you can either opt to camp or stay in one of the hotels, such as the government-operated 4 star Masirah Island Resort.
What is the currency in Oman?
The official currency of Oman is the Omani rial.
How long does it take to fly to Oman?
Non-stop flights from London to Muscat with Oman Air last 7 h 50mins.
What is the time difference in Oman?
Muscat is 3 hours ahead of London.
When is the best time to visit Oman?
Like Dubai, Oman can be blisteringly hot during the summer months but boasts much more pleasant temperatures during the mild winter months. The best time to visit, accordingly, is between October and March; though if you are staying up in the mountains bear in mind that it could be a little chilly so pack accordingly.
What language is spoken in Oman?
The official language of Oman is Arabic but English is widely spoken.
