Oman

Oman is an underwater paradise and divers are spoilt for choice. The Daymaniyat Islands are a good place to start: a cluster of nine islets with protected nature reserve status. Its coral reefs teem with marine life from turtles, moray eels and stingray to zebra sharks, whale sharks and a rainbow of exotic fish. More dive spots are found along the coastline of the Musandam Peninsula, which is popularly known as the fjords of Arabia. Navigate its labyrinthine jagged cliffs that loom dramatically over deep blue waters and spot frolicking dolphins then find a spot to moor for the night and chill out on deck underneath a canopy of infinite stars.

The Sultanate’s waters are a chef’s dream. Hop ashore to visit Qurayyat, a small fishing village where the daily catch could be anything from kingfish and snapper to giant tuna, squid, and the famously sweet and delicious Omani lobster. Leave your chef to shop for dinner while you sip on a cup of traditional gahwa (coffee) or freshly squeezed juice. Venture further inland to explore the desert sands where a camel train ride awaits before relaxing in the shade of an authentic Bedouin tent while sipping mint tea.

One of the largest turtle nesting sites in the Indian Ocean, the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is a wonderful example of conservation in action. Join a guided night tour to watch them laying their eggs on the seashore and, if you’re lucky, you may even see a baby turtle hatch. Early birds can enjoy another spectacular natural sight with a trip to the Bimmah Sinkhole. A natural turquoise pool framed by sheer rocks and populated by thousands of tiny toe-nibbling fish, local fable says it was created by a falling star; and a sunrise swim – before the tourist hordes arrive – is a magical experience.