Oman

More than any other Middle Eastern state, Oman has achieved equilibrium between its ancient Arabian culture and modernity. Not only is it one of the region’s most peaceful and prosperous countries, but it is also increasingly popular with travelers in search of dramatic scenery, magnificent beaches and insight into the region’s traditional way of life.

Occupying the rugged and mountainous southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman for centuries was one of the great trading powers of the Indian Ocean, with a sphere of commercial and naval influence that extended from the Horn of Africa as far south as Zanzibar. Recently, the country’s good fortune can be attributed partly to the discovery of major oil deposits in 1964, but also to the relatively enlightened rule of Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

Forty years ago, Oman was still essentially a medieval kingdom. Today, its capital Muscat is a gleaming, contemporary metropolis of 700,000 inhabitants. Based in one of the city’s luxury hotels, you can make easy day trips into the interior, passing through picturesque small towns surrounded by lovingly tended date palm groves to visit landmarks such as the imposing castle at Jabrin and the 17th-century fort and souk (famous for its silver jewelry) at Nizwa.

WHEN TO GO: The weather is warm and sunny from October to April. Coastal areas are hot and humid in summer. Rainfall is low, except in the south, where heavy monsoon rains fall between June and September.

CURRENCY: Rial (OMR). Fluctuating rate valued at OMR2.6 = US$1.00 as of January 2012.

U.S. EMBASSY: Muscat, Tel. 24-643-400.

DIRECT DIAL CODES: To phone hotels in Oman, dial 011 (international access) + 968 (Oman code) + city code and local numbers in listings.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Passport (valid for six months beyond end of stay) and visa. Visit travel.state.gov, and for travelers’ health information, cdc.gov.