Traveller's guide : Oman

GETTING THERE

The writer travelled with Omanair (0870 770 7319; www.omanair.aero), which flies direct to Muscat from Gatwick. Gulf Air (0870 777 1717; www.gulfairco.com) flies from Heathrow. British Airways (0870 850 9850; www.ba.com) also has a flight from Heathrow but it stops en route at Abu Dhabi.

To reduce the impact on the environment, you can buy an "offset" through Abta's Reduce my Footprint initiative (020-7637 2444; www.reducemyfootprint.travel).

STAYING THERE

Intercontinental, Muscat (00 968 24680000; www.ichotelsgroup.com). Doubles from 130 OMR (£171).

Jebel al Akhdar Hotel (00 968 25 429 009). Doubles from 44 OMR (£59).

The Chedi, Muscat (00 968 24 52 44 00; www.ghmhotels.com). B&B from 187 OMR (£246).

Grand Hyatt, Muscat (00 968 24 64 1234; muscat.grand.hyatt.com). Doubles from 148 OMR (£195).

Shangri-La Barr al Jissah Resort & Spa, Muscat (00 968 24 77 6666; www.shangri-la.com). Doubles from 94 OMR (£124).

GETTING AROUND

Local tour operator Passion-Trek (00 968 24 693 223; www.sultanat-d-oman.com), based at the Intercontinental hotel in Muscat, is run by French couple Emilie and Pascal. They can organise escorted trekking trips.

MORE INFORMATION

British passport-holders require a visa to enter Oman. These can be obtained on arrival at the airport for 6 OMR (£7.90).

Oman Ministry of Tourism: 00 968 24 588 700;

www.omantourism.gov.om

Information Ministry, Sultanate of Oman: www.omanet.om