Dinner near the Wahiba, after a day navigating through the sands.

A celebratory dinner was served, complete with white linen tablecloths and napkins and the candlelight and lanterns were helped by a gloriously clear desert night sky. As supper drew to a close there were the inevitable questions about the constellations and that provided the perfect excuse to recline on cushions around the fire sipping coffee and sampling our chef's fantastic, home-made baklava. For those wanting to expand their knowledge, there was a powerful telescope, a night sky printout and a laser pointer. The aroma of frankincense and sheesha pipes added to the heady atmosphere.