Oman is the ideal introduction to the Middle East. Open minded and big hearted, this is a country that defies much of the stigma attached to this region of the world. Many outsiders misjudge Oman based on its bordering countries but Oman is so different. More humble than Dubai, more liberal then Saudi and safer than Yemen, this is a country that you have to visit yourself to truly appreciate its uniqueness. Visiting Oman will open the mind and hopefully spark a deep intrigue into the Middle East.

Exotic and enticing, this is Arabia at its finest. Delve deep into the souqs and a world of treasure awaits you. Stalls glitter with glass lanterns, the scent of frankincense assails the senses and men in traditional dishdasha robes gather around halwa stands trying different flavours. My favourite souq of them all was the date souq where you can find every type of date you didn't even know existed. Friendly faces welcome you in and feed you Omani coffee spiced with cardamom and dates dipped in tahini. Its customary in Oman to offer your guests dates and coffee; pouring in only a splash at a time so guests ask for more and stay for longer.

The food is a heady mix of Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. Creamy hummus, flaky flatbread and spiced dahl are classics, but don't even think about leaving without trying Shuwa. Meat is marinated in fragrant spices and cooked in an underground oven for 24 hours. Once dug from the ground, the flavours are so intense and the meat falls off the bone.

From soaring mountains up high to flowing wadis down low, the nature in Oman will take your breath away. Head for the mountains where the scent of Damascan roses fills the air and apricot flowers blossom in spring. Local villagers employ age old irrigation systems to grow all types of fruit and vegetables from wild garlic to sweet pomegranates. This is the Shangri-La to locals where the climate is cooler, life is simpler and nature is beautiful.

Back down on low land, the temperatures are noticeably hotter and soar during the summer months. The only escape is to find a watering hole. Luckily Oman is home to dozens of wadis: a natural valley where water flows through crevices nestled deep within rock formations. Swim in emerald waters whilst dappled light dances off the rocks.

Oman is so much more than a winter sunshine getaway, but it can be just that if you wish. A string of luxury hotels have recently opened along the coast offering guests scuba diving opportunities, boat trips to far flung islands or relaxation by the pool. With year round sunshine and a short 7 hour flight from Europe, it's a tempting option for those in need of some R&R.

There is much to be learnt from Omanis: their openness to others, their gratitude for their country and their deep love for the Sultan.