16 December 2018

Oman has retained its rich heritage, with its historic fortresses and traditional villages. A skyline that has more minarets than skyscrapers and new buildings which are built with a passion for this architecture. You can visit a Bedouin camp and sleep under the stars, or camp on an isolated beach while listening to every lap of the waves rolling on to the beach. Shop in the ancient souks (markets) and breathe in the fragrant frankincense while inspecting the exotic spices, silks and silver ceremonial Omani daggers (Khanjars). The gateway to all of this is Muscat, which greets travellers with its new state-of-the-art international airport. There are direct flights from many international destinations. Muscat is sandwiched between the mountains and the coast. It's a perfect place to spend a few days in a luxury hotel and explore the souks and Old Muscat, the location of the Sultan's palace. Explore further afield and discover Jebel Akhdar, with its fruit trees and rose terraces. This was also the famous location where the late Princess Diana was photographed looking over the beautiful valleys. It's cooler up the mountain at Jebel Akhdar and this brings snow in winter! Yet another dimension to this picturesque country. You can also seek out the Bimmah sinkhole and Fins Beach, the latter with its pure, white sand and sea that's so blue. For the more active, there's sand-boarding and 'dune bashing' in 4WD vehicles. And don't forget the beautiful wadis that are everywhere in Oman. This time of year, when the average temperature is lower, they are especially beautiful and great for a leisurely picnic. In Salalah, where the climate is different, the greenery abounds and makes a stunning contrast to the more northern areas of the Sultanate. Or how about the ancient city of Nizwa and its 17th century fort for those who enjoy a bit of history? You can also hop on an internal flight and visit Musandam and its fjords or the lush landscapes of Salalah in the south. Oman is a very versatile country: you can have a long or short stay and get so much from it. It's fantastic if you're single, or with your partner and for families. Adventure or relaxation. The choice is yours. One thing for sure is that once you've been, you'll want to go again. Oman is a place that will leave an indelible impression in your heart. As a resident of nearly ten years, I can personally vouch for that. For more information on short or long stays, hotels, desert camps, sand surfing and caving adventures, call me today!

12 December 2018

Have you thought about a trip to Oman? Having had the pleasure of living there for ten years, I can personally vouch for this destination. There is a wonderful diversity to the landscapes of Oman: jagged mountain peaks appear out of nowhere on the sand-filled plains and stark desert valleys transform suddenly into lush green oases. The empty quarter has saffron-coloured sands which change shape with the Gulf winds and the Arabian Sea washes up against bleached cliffs and pristine sandy beaches where rare turtles breed. Oman's empire used to extend to Zanzibar on Africa's east coast (the birth place of Freddie Mercury). It absorbed influences from Portugal, as well as Africa, and Persia and India. Many tribes now combine to form a rich cultural mix. Local food and drink incorporate all these influences. From slow-cooked mutton stews to fragrant fish curries and skewered chicken and prawn, cooked at many roadside pitches over hot coals. There’re also crispy flat breads, tiny sweet bananas homegrown, as well as fresh juicy mangoes and papayas and coconuts. Omanis offer Cardamom-infused coffee and dates or Halwa, a delicious dessert. Omanis are rightly very proud of their country's culture and customs. If you think the Gulf is full of bling and building sites, prepare to be surprised. Oman is the jewel in the Middle East's crown and the Gulf's magical best. Beauty really has an address. There's more to follow. But if this has got you interested, get in touch and I'll do the rest.

14 August 2018

Aruba is a tiny island nestled in the warm southern Caribbean with nearly 100 different nationalities and is known as "One Happy Island". It offers a warm welcome to all visitors with sunny smiles and a friendly embrace. I was lucky enough to visit this gem of an Island earlier this year. The weather was perfect, with the cool Caribbean wind tempering the burning sun (I still got a little sunburnt!) The hospitality is gracious and there are a range of spectacular beaches on offer. It’s no wonder Aruba is synonymous with tourism. The Island is full of history, if that's what you're looking for, from ancient Caiquetio Indian roots, through Spanish and Dutch rule, to its modern-day standing as a constituent country of the Netherlands. Aruba’s history dates back centuries and isn’t confined to a museum: it’s embedded in the features of every smiling face. It’s also sculpted deeply into the rocks and gold mine ruins, and Oranjestad sculptures that have endured for generations. Historic vacations to Aruba bring you face to face with Aruba's incredible story. A package can be built into your Aruba historical vacation to explore the centuries and discover stories of this fascinating island. Or you can opt to just relax and enjoy the sun while the sea is lapping around your feet. And don't forget to sample the Aruba Ariba, one their signature cocktails. It’s that stunning I’d even suggest getting married in Aruba on one of the spectacular beaches. #arubatourism #onehappyisland #travelcounsellor #tcexperience #paradise #bliss #relax #waves #honeymoons #weddingdestination #arubaaribacocktails