Oman’s oasis towns

Dubai may be the most popular holiday-destination in the Gulf, but if you're looking for "the real Arabia" rather than "a mass of shopping malls and luxury hotels", head to Oman, says Hamish McRae in the Independent.

Those who want luxury will find it in the capital, Muscat, a coastal city that has sprawled in the last 20 years to become strangely

reminiscent of Los Angeles. In the nearby port of Muttrah, however, you'll get a real feeling for this "ancient trading society".

The interior of Oman is wild and spectacular: the country is the size of Britain, but only 2.5 million people live here. Mountains rising to 10,000ft are scattered with oasis towns, like the old capital, Nizwa, with its immense fort, and the "fascinating ruined city of Tanuf".

Original Travel (0207 978 7333) arranges Oman tours.