The most elegant wing of the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah complex, the Al Bandar Resort 5* invites you to this enchanting corner of Oman. Tucked in between the turquoise blue of the Arabian Sea and majestic mountains, the resort also overlooks 500 metres of picturesque coastline.  Find bliss in the secluded spa, surrounded by lush gardens, try an exhilarating watersport and tantalise your tastebuds at the many dining outlets onsite.

The Al Bandar Deluxe Sea View Room offers exotic views of the Arabian Sea from your private furnished balcony, and warm, natural tones to make you feel right at home.

This is a bed and breakfast stay.

Choose to upgrade to half board at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.) 

Treat yourself to a full board stay and upgrade at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast, lunch and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.) 

At the CHI, The Spa all you have to do is be pampered with a massage or hammam session. Swim a few laps in the pool under the gentle Omani sun, or there is also the fully-equipped gym featuring indoor classes in the fitness studio. The resort also boasts numerous activities including beach volleyball, guided snorkelling, tennis, non-motorised water sports and water skiing.

This tour starts at 8:30 am. Drive from Muscat to Wadi Bani Khalid, where you can swim in its turquoise pools surrounded by palm trees and rocky outcrops. Lunch is included. Afterwards, head to the Wahiba Desert to experience the unique atmosphere of the dunes and visit a Bedouin family home. Return to Muscat, arriving at the hotel around 5 pm.

Explore the great city of Muscat. Start your visit at the magnificent Great Mosque, built of sandstone and marble. The main prayer hall is adorned with handmade Persian carpet and a Swarovski crystal chandelier. From the mosque, walk through the ministerial area to Muscat's old town. Stop off at the Muttrah Fish Market and watch the lively activity, and continue with a visit to the Opera House.  

Next is the Muttrah Souk, one of the oldest preserved souks in Oman. This is a traditional Omani market offering a wide range of products and souvenirs, such as silver jewellery and incense. Discover Oman's rich cultural heritage at the Bait Al Zubair House, which was converted into a museum in 1998. It features a fine collection of jewellery, weapons and traditional costumes. The final stop is Al Alam Palace and the two 16th-century Portuguese forts, Mirani and Jalali (exterior only). Return to the hotel around 1 pm. 

Please note: Please respect the dress code when visiting the Great Mosque. Women must cover themselves and their clothes. 

Enjoy a transfer from your hotel (shared transfer) and head to the marina, where you will embark on a 2-hour boat trip (shared). The captain will take you to the best spots along Muscat's coastline - ideal for dolphin watching. Continue to a beautiful bay for snorkelling - you may even see some turtles. Return to the marina and transfer to your hotel. Water and soft drinks are included on board.   

Visit the oasis town of Nizwa, once the capital of the Julanda dynasty in the 6th and 7th centuries AD. Nizwa Fort is an impressive reminder of its former importance as the political and cultural capital of Oman. Nizwa is also famous for its silverware, jewellery and handmade Omani daggers (khanjar), which can be found in the Nizwa souk. 

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and continue to Bahla, known for its pottery workshops and huge clay fort (photo stop only). Continue to Jibrin Castle, over 300 years old and considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Oman, with its richly decorated interior.

Visit an island paradise on this half-day snorkelling excursion. The Dimaniyat Islands are renowned for their exceptional marine biosphere, with several kinds of coral reefs, a large number of sea turtles, white sandy beaches and pristine blue water. 

As the oldest independent state in the Arab world, Oman, a country that's perfectly positioned on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, is the perfect destination for those in search of fascinating history, colourful souqs, towering mosques, and even sun-kissed beaches.

For first-time visitors, the clear place to start is the scenic city of Muscat, a waterside delight that sits backed by mountains and jam-packed with fantastic museums, characterful architecture, rich heritage and friendly Omani hospitality. Highlights in this stunning city include the bustling, chaotic and beautifully vibrant Mutrah Souq, the glamorous Royal Opera House, and the glorious Grand Mosque - an impressive example of opulent Islamic architecture

For those looking for something a little different on their Arabian adventure, we recommend heading out into the golden desert, to experience the breathtaking landscape and endless activities in Wahiba Sands. From thrilling 4x4 adventures across the dunes, to once-in-a-lifetime treks and breathtaking sunset viewings, a trip to Wahiba Sands provides an out-of-this-world holiday experience.