Oman

40 years ago, this country (as big as the UK) was still in the Middle Ages: just one hospital and three doctors, a few kilometers of roads, no telephone, electricity or radio. Oman has succeeded in blending tradition and modernity at lightning speed. Today, you'll discover a curious blend of Arabia, Africa (notably in dances and instruments), India (fabrics and jewelry) and even England. When it comes to local color, you're in for a treat, as all Omanis still wear the traditional dishdasha (dress) and koma (hat). And in the hinterland, the elders still proudly display the khanjar (curved dagger) and sometimes even the rifle.