4 night break to Oman, Muscat 2017
When we arrived at Oman Airport we had to pay for a visa on arrival for up to 30 days. It costs 20 OMR per person, and can be purchased at two exchange bureaus before entering immigration. Once clear of customs and immigration there are loads of taxis available to all parts of Oman. We took a taxi to Al Bustan Palace hotel costing around 15 OMR, and the journey took around 30 minutes.
During our journey we saw lots of historical places including the opera house and Oman parliament. Once we arrived at the hotel we checked in and our room was already ready. We stayed in room number 302, a Garden Deluxe room on a bed and breakfast basis. During our check in service, we were given a cold towel, tea and dates.
The hotel entrance lobby was amazing, with lots of glass chandeliers. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle bus service at 4.30PM to the souk and museum, returning back at 7PM. I would recommend pre-booking the shuttle bus for the souk as the bus can get busy at peak times.
Our room had all the modern facilities plus a nice bathroom. We had a lovely view of the gardens, plus a sea view. Breakfast was great with a good choice serving from 07.00 hrs until 11.00 hrs. Fresh pancakes, omelettes, smoothies - all served plus fresh coconut water which was popular with the guests.
One of the days we just relaxed by the sea which has a private beach area. We were greeted by a pool butler who gave us complimentary cold water in a cooler box plus a cold towel. Later, we were given free ice lollies. We thought the service was amazing, and never experienced this before. You could order food from your sun lounger too. The pool butler even made up your lounger with the towels. There were plenty of sun loungers, so no need to fight for them and free of charge. The hotel also has lovely pools and great kids club facilities.
We did take a dip in the sea. The water was warm, and the sand burnt my feet. In the daytime the temperature was 42 degrees most days, which was really hot. I hadn’t experienced temperatures as hot as this before on any of my holidays ever.
We had lunch on our first day of arrival. The food was good but on the pricey side, but this is to be expected at hotels. There are no other restaurants or bars near by the hotel, apart from the hotel's own restaurants. Therefore I suggest you use the hotel complimentary shuttle to the souk for all your needs. The hotel did suggest hiring a car or taxi to get to the supermarket.
We did use the complimentary shuttle bus service to Souk for shopping and dinner. The journey time is 15 minutes and it takes you to Muscat Souk where you can find lots of shops plus restaurants. The souk is popular for its frankincense. The souk is also the place to try to your hand at haggling. Whilst in the Muscat area, you must see the sunset go down in the evening which is pretty. Muscat has a lot of history and beautiful forts, and palaces to visit.
We were there for four days. We thought it was a great place for a city break. We would recommend the hotel we stayed at for both high end couples and familes. The staff were friendly and helpful. The food was very good at the hotel.
The hotel was closing for refurbishment whilst I was leaving, and will be opening again in November. We were already impressed with the hotel, and couldn't think of what else can they can do to improve it more, as it was so good already. We would love to return to see the improvements in the future.
Hotel facts
5* hotel 198 guest rooms and 52 luxurious suites Expansive 1-kilometre private beach, the longest in the country Five outdoor swimming pools, including a 50-metre-long infinity pool, children’s pool, and children’s playground Six Senses Spa: 33,000 square feet of facilities including 17 treatment suites and a ladies-only members area Fitness centre offering the latest cardio and weight equipment with separate aerobics room, sauna, steam room, and relaxation rooms Recreation facilities offering sailing, kayaking, and snorkelling Three restaurants Two bars Beauty Salon Tennis courts Business Centre Concierge Services Art Gallery and Boutique featuring emerging artists from Oman and abroad, located on Level 1
Muscat is for those who want to see the culture of the Middle East. I would also suggest a tour overnight in the desert as part of your experience in Oman. The best way to get around Oman would be to hire a car and explore this great country.