Elite Traveler July-August 2018

EXPLORE OMAN

G U ID E T O

Despite being neighbors with Dubai, the Sultanate of Oman couldn’t be more different. Away from the glitz and glamour of the Middle East’s answer to Las Vegas, Oman’s resplendent natural beauty and rich culture are enticing those who want to go off the beaten path and immerse themselves in an ancient way of life. The varied terrain is like nowhere on earth — outside the bustling markets and grand mosques of Muscat, you’ll find Musandam’s sparkling fjords and white- sand beaches, the imposing peaks and wadis (valleys) of the Hajar Mountains, and, of course, endless stretches of desert with gargantuan sand dunes.

by Samantha Coles

WHERE TOHAVE…

SEAFOOD ON THE SAND The Beach Pavilion The Beach Pavilion Bar and Grill, at the Ritz-Carlton Al Bustan Palace in Muscat is unbelievably romantic — tables for two are set right on a beach peppered with lanterns and torches. Start with salmon tartare, then order the fresh seafood platter and enjoy the gentle lull from the Sea of Oman. After dinner, head to the bar for shisha and cocktails. ritzcarlton.com A TRADITIONAL FEAST Kargeen The Muscat restaurant Kargeen, meaning ‘little wooden cottage’ in Omani, serves traditional Arabic dishes such as shuwaa (lamb or beef wrapped in palm fronds and cooked over hot embers

underground). In the garden, trees are entwined with twinkling fairy lights, and a tent structure called Al Marjal features traditional Omani dining on plump floor cushions. kargeen.com DINNER WITH A VIEW The Indus Fine Dining Located at the Opera Galleria in Muscat, The Indus’s alfresco terrace has incredible views looking over the Royal Opera House courtyard and beyond. The dishes include traditional Arabic cuisine, but the desserts are not to be missed — order homemade kulfi, with either mango, pistachio or cardamom puree. There’s also a private dining area if you’re after a more intimate affair. theindus.om

A MAGICAL NIGHT Dining by Design Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort’s Dining by Design concept brings private dining to new heights at Diana’s Point (pictured, right). Named after the Princess of Wales who visited the very spot in 1986, the protruding platform features panoramic canyon views that will have you feeling the grandeur of nature. It’s a magnificent spot for a private dinner — your personal chef will prepare your meal tableside as you cocoon in a plush blanket , kept warm by a crackling fire pit and surrounded by flickering lanterns. Advanced booking is a must. fb.aaja@anantara.com, jabal-akhdar.anantara.com

Photo Pelorus