By Niraj Kasar — Oman, Oman
Oman kept what its neighbours traded away: forts instead of malls, souqs that still smell of frankincense, and mountains that fall straight into the sea. It is the easiest hard-to-believe country I have visited.
Best time to visit October to March. Summer is for salamanders. Winter evenings actually need a light jacket.
What to expect Rent a car, distances are honest and the roads are excellent. Fuel costs less than water.
How to dress Modest and light. Shoulders and knees covered at forts and mosques, always.
Oman does not shout. Give it a week and it will not stop talking to you.