Omani Oasis

Shangri-La Hotels' newest venture, Oman's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, shangri-la.com, is actually three distinct hotels in one—the Al Waha, the Al Bandar and the Al Husn. The properties offer 680 rooms between them, all with wonderful views of the Gulf of Oman.

The very best accommodation is found in the 180-room Al Husn—the most luxurious hotel not just on the site but in the sultanate. Lavish details are everywhere: gold leaf on the lobby ceiling, hand-tufted Indian carpets and works from some of Oman's most eminent artists. In guest rooms, taps are gold plated and pillows are filled with goose down. Should the $728-a-night rack rate prove a deterrent, choose from the four-star Al Bandar or the mid-range Al Waha. With its casual restaurants and toddler pools, the latter is aimed at young families. The former, geared to couples or parents with older children, offers a teens' club, boutiques and a nightclub. The resort's private beach and sports facilities can be enjoyed by guests of all three hotels, as can the Chi spa. Don't miss the cucumber body wrap—the perfect antidote to all that desert sun.