DAY 01 - 08: SRI LANKA

Imagine the lushest, most idyllic island possible and chances are it won’t be as wonderful as Sri Lanka, lying off the southern tip of India. The Beautiful beaches are a magnet, but you must explore some of the islands seven world heritage sites, including ancient cities and virgin rainforest. Get active river –rafting or mountain biking the national park trails, and relax with soothing Ayurevedic spa treatments.

There’s a wealth of wildlife on the island. Meet the elephants in the national parks and at the elephant sanctuary, and go bird watching in the rainforest of Sinharaja. To cool down, head for the atmospheric old hill stations. During Jul/Aug, the 10 day Kandy Perahera Pageant provides a scintillating and colourful spectacle of acrobats, performers and decorated elephants.

It’s a romantic island, beloved of honeymooners, where you can get married with the unique backdrop of an ancient city’s atmospheric ruins. When you’ve consumed the sight, leave some room for the food. Delicious cuisine includes typical Sri Lankan curry made with chilli, coconut and cinnamon. Indian, Chinese, Malay and western food is readily available. The tea is top quality, arrack, made from fermented palm tree sap, is a potent local brew.

DAY 08 - 15: MUSCAT, OMAN

Muscat Governorate is considered the pulsating heart of Oman. It is linked to Port Sultan Qaboos by Muttrah Corniche where the visitor to Muscat can view the wonderful variety of nature: golden beaches, mountainous heights, and golden sand dunes (Bawshar Sands).

Perhaps what is striking about Muscat Governorate and its states is the breathtaking intermingling of ancient cultural heritage and modern style. You will see houses, gates, old markets, small shops, and winding roads redolent of authentic history, side by side with modern markets, shops, buildings, and streets stamped with modern architecture. This allows Oman to preserve its historic character, and at the same time enjoying its contemporary spirit. Muscat is renowned as one of the cleanest Arab capitals, and has gained the honour of winning the Cleanest Arab City Contest several consecutive times.