Muscat moments

A CULTURAL MELTING POT
Regularly voted one of the safest places to visit in the world, the crystal clear waters of the Arabian sea, atmospheric craggy Hajar mountains, and endless cultural hotspots are just some of the draws of Oman. And its capital city, Muscat, is a place of natural beauty, Omani hospitality and ancient history.

Rich in culture – the Al Alam Palace, 200-year-old Souk and Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque are just some of the hotspots to pay a visit – the city also has an aura of understated chic. Upon arrival in Oman, following an easy seven-hour direct flight from London, that holiday-feel heat hits you as soon as the plane doors open, before you're whisked to the exclusivity of the Shangri-La. As the hotel comes into view, you can immediately see why this was the chosen location for such a resort – nestled between the mountains and the sea, the setting provides a picture-perfect canvas to bask in your newlywed status.

With 14 restaurants and bars across the adult-only Al Husn and its easily accessible sister sites of Al Waha and Al Bandar, the resort offers five-star cuisine including Indian, Asian, Mediterranean, seafood and much more. Unforgettable experiences such as a clifftop dining and beach breakfasts are a definite highlight for honeymooners.

And while you may be loath to leave your luxury suite complete with breathtaking views of the famous Muscat Arch, the hotel's private marina draws you out onto the aqua blue waters of the Gulf of Oman. Here, you can enjoy one of life's greatest experiences – there is nothing quite like relaxing on a boat while marvelling at the dolphins jumping and playing alongside you. This water adventure is topped off by the chance to don your snorkel gear and swim with majestic turtles and rich marine life. An Omani escape not to be missed.

LIFETIME MEMORIES
Honeymoon experiences in Oman are limitless and range from the exciting (with pristine beaches lapped by balmy seas, heading out onto the water, or a local Wadi – a stunning canyon with crystal-clear pools and hidden caves – is a must) to the adventurous (why not try a Jebel Akhdar, the Green Mountain, adventure?) to the relaxing (with frankincense being a local offering, the hotel's Luban spa is an ideal way to rid yourself of any wedmin stress, I personally recommend the Wahiba massage.)

However, if you're really looking to get the full taste of the Middle East– what better way than to head out into the dunes? Looking for an authentic desert experience like no other? Then the desert expedition hosted by The Canvas Club is a must. Stepping out of the Shangri-La and into the air-conditioned Jeep, our driver – the inimitable Mustaffah – asked us with a grin: 'Ready for some fun?' And boy were we not disappointed. Following a relaxing two-hour drive, we got our first glimpse of the Wahiba Sands desert and our Jeep came into its own. Nipping along the beautiful sands rich in orange and golden tones, Mustaffah opened up the Jeep and we had an adrenaline filled ride to our next mode of transport. With four legs replacing four wheels, our camels took the pace down a notch and allowed us to really feel the serenity of the desert for the first time. Catching the first glimpse of our luxury glamping home for the night, atop a camel, as the sun set behind us, was a core memory to last a lifetime.

The overnight stay was nothing short of luxurious. From the welcome drinks to the fully-equipped tents, to the power showers underneath nothing but a starlight sky – every last detail has been thought of. And that's not to mention the exquisite dining experience, all cooked by the local Omani hosts right there on site. We finished the evening off lounging on plush cushions looking up at the starlit sky and sharing life stories. If you're looking for a way to slow down, breathe deeply, and bask in that post-wedding glow – this is the place to do it.

A GATEWAY TO TRANQUILLITY
Closer to resort, Muscat lends itself perfectly to a relaxing honeymoon world's away from the stresses of real life. As a gateway between the Arabian Peninsula, Africa, and India, the city has absorbed a rich cultural heritage, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. The culture is conservative but welcoming, and the Omani people are inherently warm and hospital. The Muttrah Souk, one of the oldest markets in the Arab world, is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, while having a guided tour of the Mosque, palace and local museums really give you a sense of the country's rich history.
However, if staying closer to base is more your post-wedding prerogative, the Shangri-La Husn and its sister sites have enough experiences to keep you as occupied as you wish. Alternatively just while away your days by the luxury infinity pool, looking out onto the Gulf of Oman and letting the stresses of life melt away.