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Windswept sand dunes that seem to go on forever, jagged mountains that cut into the sky and ancient wind towers make Oman a country of dramatic contrasts. There are ornate mosques, emerald-green wadis and arid-looking limestone plateaus where toe-nibbling fish thrive. You can go on 4WD routes and look for shoals of reef fish while snorkelling. Let’s talk about how to enjoy a sojourn in Oman.

What do you wish to do in Oman? The capital itself is a pretty stunning place with seasonal waterfalls, the Arabian Sea and banana plantations. It makes sense to look for a Salalah resort in Oman to find a hotel with access to the beach and lagoon. Contact hotels like the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara to see if they offer any deals. You need to find a place that lets you enjoy the

The summer months from June to July tend to be scorching and unbearably hot in Oman. Hence, it is better to avoid visiting during these months. ‘Khareef’ – the monsoon season begins in June and the lush greenery looks best in September with little heat to bother you. If you wish to see the seasonal waterfalls, August is the best time, but the heat might still be a tad bit unbearable. On the plus side, Oman doesn’t ever get cold even in winter. The heat is more bearable between the months of October and April and short rainfall blesses the country in January and February. Pick the time depending on your preferences and what you wish to do. A good rule of thumb is to avoid the heat between 12 noon to 3 pm. Use this time for a siesta or visit an air-conditioned museum.

There are ATMs all over Oman and hotels, restaurants and even petrol stations accept credit cards. Try to change 50 Riyal notes at restaurants and hotels to keep change in hand. It is good to keep change with you for small purchases and paying taxi fares.

Public transport is rather limited in Oman. There are no trains and no metro network. There is a bus system, but it is not adequate. A bus company runs a bus service within Muscat and to main intercity destinations. There are private minibuses you could hail on the streets and taxis. If you’re travelling to Oman, it is better to hire your own car. You can always ask your hotel to arrange taxis to some destinations.

The best way to see Oman and visit faraway places is to hire a car and drive it yourself. You would need an international driver’s license though. If you wish to go off the beaten track – rent a 4WD. If you are going to stay within the cities and not venture far, a Sedan would do. It is possible to go on a desert camping adventure without a 4WD. You can drive to Sharqiya Sands in a Sedan, and nearby towns offer pick-up services. You can leave your rented car in their office and travel in a 4WD for a camping adventure.

Your resort is likely to offer international fare. But Omani cuisine is just as delectable. It is a bit of a shawarma haven with small shops offering this delicacy all over the country. You’ll get your shawarma with salad, bread and hummus and sometimes spit-roasted meat.

Yes. Wild camping in Oman is safe, allowed and an excellent way to fall in love with the desert wilderness. You can find a perfect camping spot near a canyon to pitch your tent and catch a sunrise and spectacular views.