CAPITAL MUSCAT - POPULATION 3.6 MILLION - AREA 212,460 SQ KM -OFFICIAL LANGUAGE ARABIC
Oman continues to develop as a tourist destination in 2009, with its emphasis divided between top-end luxury and a growing trend in ecotourism. To sample a bit of both, spend a few days soaking up the sun at the incredibly popular new Shangri-La Barr al Jisr spa hotel, then head to stunning Wadi Shab for its serene aquamarine pools and waterfalls. Travel the frankincense-producing Dhafar highlands, roam Muscat's heady souqs, palaces and walled city, touch Oman's heritage at the newly opened Frankincense Land Museum, and explore its 2000km of largely unpopulated coastline: there's really never been a better time to visit. Hit town in January 2009 for the colorful Muscat Festival, or head here for the Khareef Festival in July and August.
MUSCAT, OMAN
Exploding onto the exotic holiday scene…
While the Western world recovers from the economic crisis, Oman is firing on all fronts to attract international visitors, expanding everything from its museums to its resorts. Muscat is the focus for the revamp, with cultural events, luxury accommodation and aquatic activities taking centre stage. In 2010 the 40th-anniversary celebrations of Sultan Qaboos' ascension provided a focus for the country's traveler-enticing potential, particularly through the Asian Beach Games and the Tour of Oman cycle race, as well as the Muscat Festival, which has garnered a global following, thanks to prestigious sideshows such as an inaugural fashion week (aiming to put Muscat at the pinnacle of Arabian fashion) and the Extreme Sailing Series (the world's toughest sailing odyssey). Now the talk has been talked and the cranes cleared off. Muscat in 2012 is settling into its new place on the world stage. Now it's about Qurum's trendy designer outlets, Old Town souks and wacky water sports enlivening its coastline alongside traditional dhows (and the odd Qaboos- owned luxury yacht).
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