Be prepared for extremely hot weather!

The least expensive way to transfer to the Shangri-La is to take a taxi.
You must bargain for the best fare should be 10-15 OMR ( Omani Rial.)

The ride to the hotel is a long one, but offers a nice introduction to Muscat- you will pass many nice areas and buildings.
Please notice the new Sultan Quaboos Mosque on the right hand side of the highway on your way.
A nice place to visit early in the morning before it gets too hot.
You could also make arrangements with the hotel for a transfer , but it would be much more expensive.

Your hotel is out of the city and other than a diving center really has nothing neat to it.
Probably best to stay in the hotel complex during the mid day period and only venture out early in the day or in later evening.

A visit to the Muttrah Souk in the later evening when it is somewhat cooler is a nice thing.
Much to see and perhaps buy - many ladies like the numerous perfume shops where they can mix something to your liking.
Numerous shopping centers and markets exist.
The " LULU " markets offer most everything . Several locations in Muscat.

The tourist guide book will describe the shopping centers- have a look and pick one or more that appeals to you.

Many gold shops too. Bargaining for the best price is expected.

Thank you so much for this information which is very helpful.

We are prepared for the heat......I think........here in UK we are having a heatwave.......

Yes, it will be very hot and humid in August. The UK heatwave is nothing compared to the desert heat.

Check with your hotel-they should be organising your airport-hotel transfer. In fact most hotels do that. THey generally throw in apt transfer and breafast.So check that out.Afterall its a competetive market.

Try to pick up a 'KHANJAR' its a typical Omani dagger. Its a lovely souvinear.
Their silver 'Kahwa" or coffee pot is also a favourite. And then you get some old silver jewellary framed. All these are available in the Muttrah souk.

Most people go to Salalah ,south of Oman at this time of the year. Its Monsoon time there and its green..... and supposed to be beautiful.

You could go to Jab Al Shams ...up the rugged mountaind and camp there overnight. But, you will need a 4X4.

The reception at Shangrila will have several brochures and pick up your copy of Oman today. You'll get a lot of information.

I'm sure you'll love Oman. Omanis are great people... very humble and extramly warm.

Whizforty

Too many years since I was last there but great place and great people. I am sure you will enjoy. It is slowly getting more and more popular.
Do give us a report back, would be very interested.