Salam MQ

Madinat Sultan Qaboos, near Qurum, is old Muscat money — low buildings, mature trees, embassies and quiet streets. It is calmer than anywhere else on this list. A one-bedroom for up to three with a kitchen, a washer and a desk to work at. Deliberately plain inside; the address is what you are booking. Qurum beach, the park and the shops are all a short drive, and the city’s older neighbourhoods start here rather than an hour away.