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Fish market in Oman.

Bordering Saudi Arabia to the West; the United Arab Emirates to the Northeast, and Yemen in the South, Oman was also the first Gulf state to establish official relations with Israel (in 1994) while still maintaining cordial relations with the rest of its Arab neighbors.

Safe and sensible, with a culture that blends the ancient and modern, Oman is a land of old trading towns and cosmopolitan resort hotels, where unspoiled natural beauty and outdoor adventure never fails to impress even the most jaded world traveler.

Most Oman journeys begin in its capital, Muscat, offering modern ammenities with lush public parks and spectacular beaches such as popular Qurum Beach, Yeti, and Bandar Al-Jissah.

Also be sure to take in the city's famous landmarks at Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Clock Tower Square and the stunning Al-Alam Palace and surrounding historic forts. (If you're traveling in January, don't miss one of the biggest entertainment extravaganzas in the Middle East at the annual Muscat Festival.)

Additional Oman must-sees include the ancient oasis city of Nizwa, with its notable mosques, imposing castle and nearby bustling souq (market) - as well as the mellow and laid-back city of Sohar with its historic castle, impressive beaches and beautiful public parks.

More about Oman travel & tourism around the Web:

Welcome to Oman - The official tourism site with user-friendly guide to top attractoins and information on the country's scenic wonders, directory of star-rated hotels, top restaurants (and fast food joints), suggested tour operators, event calendar.

Destination Oman - Busy & bustling site with detailed information on top attractions, markets and shopping, as well as practical tips on getting around, traffic rules, social customs, useful Arabic phrases, maps & photos.

Oman Travel Information - Lonely Planet guide with details on top attractions in Muscat, around the Batinah Coast, Wadi Shab, Jabrin Castle and more with maps, image gallery, practical travel tips, related links.

Oman Explorer - Complete and detailed information on all major cities and towns with photos and suggested itineraries, featured scenic stops, historic forts, and story articles on traditional camel racing and the annual Kharif Festival.

Oman Travel Guide - Quick, useful and entertaining overview from BugBog.com with 'been there' advice on when & where to go and what to see, a list of annual festivals, weather facts, cultural etiquette tips, related links.

Muscat travel guide - Wikitravel entry with lists of suggested major and nearby attractions, a 'best of' guide to shops, restaurants & hotels with insider tips on typical costs, itineraries.

Muscat Festival - The official site, with historical background and complete schedule of events.