PALATIAL PERFECTION

A range of vibrant cultural experiences, recreational and rejuvenation activities amidst the natural splendour of a tranquil, tropical retreat was just the ticket we needed. This, alongside World-class five-star services allowed for a magical stay at Shangri-La Al Husn Resort and Spa, Muscat.

The provenance and history of the Shangri-La group is particularly apt when taking in the splendorous setting on your drive from the airport to the Resort. The mythical place described by James Hilton in his novel Lost Horizon inspired Robert Kuok to name his ’new’ hotel after it. The vast rock formations, outcrops and chards which surround the resort are breathtaking and certainly have an element of the mythical, if not magical , about them. A great deal of thought and time has been taken when choosing a setting in which to create this resort.

“The lobby area is an absolute triumph of both architecture and taste.”

My experience did not begin as I approached the resort but rather days earlier when I received my personalised itinerary. It not only whet my appetite for my stay but made me feel that my individual needs were being addressed and that each element was bespoke and thoughtfully arranged. The lobby area is an absolute triumph of both architecture and taste. It perfectly combines vastness and luxury and was reminiscent of the serene open spaces found within Grand Mosques all over the Middle East. Much of the ‘need to know’ information had already been dispensed through my itinerary prior to arrival so I was able to gaze , in awe, as I was shown around the resort discovering a succession of beautiful spaces, courtyards and vistas. Shangri La Al Husn is Oman’s only private , adult resort and has recently been refined in order to ensure that guests can indulge in all aspects of the finest of Omani hospitality. The views from the infinity pool and the private Mahhara Beach would rival those of Santorini at sunset. The sense of seclusion and tranquillity which the setting imparts is second to none.

The phrase ‘breakfast at your leisure’ illustrates the overriding philosophy of the Al Husn resort which is to induce a sense of relaxation and revitalisation. The Sultanah restaurant plays host to breakfast each morning. A riot of colour, flavour and choice greeted us. The vast platters and service stations afford guests the opportunity to eat as healthily or indulgently as their mood desires. The décor is inspired by the rock and water outside and is a fusion of colour and light which exudes freshness. Throughout my travels and gastronomic experiences I would struggle to place another resort’s ‘iftar’ above it. To coin a phrase I had certainly breakfasted like a king or rather Sultan - though I doubted that dinner would be that of a pauper!

During the course of the day the Mahhara Beach Bar and Al Muheet terrace bar entice guests with a selection of salads, sandwiches and freshly caught flame grilled seafood. Tropical drinks alongside an impressive selection of libations are also served throughout the day overlooking the Bay of Jissah. At 16.00 Afternoon Tea is served on the terrace outside the Sultanah Restaurant. The finest of silverware holds delicate pastries and sandwiches and guests are able to choose from a selection of teas skilfully infused by your hosts. As early evening was now upon us we happened upon the Courtyard area where all manner of aperitifs were being served. The enclosed courtyard with elegant water features and archways which frame snippets of the views over the Gulf of Oman was intimate and alluring. Each finely tuned dining experience and assemblage at the resort really showcases both the location and the quality of the facilities without feeling staged.

And so we turned to the teller of tales of 1001 nights, Shahrazad, for dinner. I was immediately taken with the illusion of stars in the night sky above me which was created with thousands of tiny LED lights. The lighting cast shadows upon the highly polished marble floors and traditional lanterns, kettles and shishas create a sense of Moroccan