Oman is the living embodiment of the purest, most authentic and legendary Arabia. Far from the bustle of futuristic skyscrapers of its Gulf neighbors, this sultanate has managed to proudly preserve its ancient identity, its elegant architecture in earth tones and its maritime and caravan traditions. Here, the sharp peaks of the Al Hajar Mountains guard dizzying canyons and hidden oases where freshwater springs irrigate terraced palm groves. Inland, the rolling dunes of the desert give way to fortified adobe cities where the aroma of incense, myrrh and cardamom permeates everything. With a pristine coastline teeming with dolphins and turtles, and a people whose warmth, politeness and hospitality disarm any traveler, Oman is a journey to the heart of oriental magic.