Just back from a short trip to Oman and Dubai – covering Muscat, Nizwa, Musandam and Dubai.

First impression of Oman – very hot, clean and safe. Muscat has a fantastic coastal location with long empty beaches, clear blue skies and crystal clear sea.

The old part of Muttrah around the souk area is well worth a visit. A short drive from Muscat is Nizwa, famous for its Friday goat and cattle market and desert forts. The highlight for me was definitely Musandam up in the north of the country. Dramatic mountain scenery and coastal fishing villages – that’s it. Many of the villages are only accessible by boat. The best way to appreciate the area is by Dhow cruise sailing amongst the fjords – accompanied by the many dolphins swimming along side the boat. Good snorkelling and diving in the area. The mountain safari trip provides you with fantastic mountain and coastal views.

Dubai is about 3.5 hours drive from here crossing the border into the UAE– and couldn’t be more different! Masses of 50 storey sky scrapers, shopping malls and apartment blocks. Definitely a buzz about the place and a shoppers paradise– unfortunately not for me, but I guess it takes all sorts.