My husband and I choose the Al Husn for our one week’s stay. We wanted to spend some leisure time and to celebrate New Year’s Eve. When we were last time in Muscat, we stayed at the Al Bustan Hotel. This time we decided to give the Shangri-La a shot and were well-advised!

The whole resort (where the Al Husn is the premium hotel with adult guests only) is wonderfully located amidst rock formations alongside the Omani coastline. It is indeed very nice and secluded.



The Al Husn on top of a rock features a private pool and beach. Both were enjoyable and well-maintained but unfortunately also were very busy. It was sometimes difficult to find a sunbed as the hotel seemed to be full. In addition, many sunbeds had been taken in advance (without people being present). When you had managed to get your hands on a sunbed, you were in for some indulgence. The staff delivered a cooler box with drinks and a facial spray. Also cold towels and occasionally nibbles were offered. Furthermore, two more treats were provided for all Husn guests. First, an afternoon tea at Sultanah Restaurant. Second, pre-dinner drinks and canapés at the courtyard. It was a nice touch and well appreciated by us.



We had booked a Deluxe Sea View Rom and were satisfied with the choice. The room was large and well-appointed. However personally, I was no fan of the thick carpet in the room, but that is a question of taste. I would have preferred no carpet at all as the climate in Muscat is rather humid. And I found that the room smelled somewhat musty. Anyway, the room was fine as it was the bathroom. The latter was spacious with a tub and a large separate shower. Pity, that there was only one sink. The room featured a nice balcony too were you could enjoy the gorgeous sea view. A mini bar with free drinks (no spirits) and snacks was also at our disposal.



Breakfast at the Sultanah Restaurant was great. A huge buffet and an a la carte choice awaited us. As far as restaurants are concerned, there is a good choice, catering for all tastes. As we are foodies and are not into buffet restaurants, we went for the upscale restaurants. The quality in general was very good, but they were also very pricey. When the hotel is full, it is recommended to reserve in advance.

As to my dining recommendations at Al Husn Hotel, Sultanah is a great place for upscale international cuisine. Also the adjacent Moroccan restaurant Shahrazad is a good choice for tasty authentic food. At Al Bandar Hotel, we went to the Capri Court and enjoyed the delicious Italian food. If you want to have an after dinner drink, do not miss the fabulous Piano Bar here. It is not only a beautiful bar, but they also mix terrific drinks, very recommended! When you are into sea food, Bait Al Bahr is a must. We dined here twice and were delighted by the offered.

On New Year’s Eve, we started with champagne and canapés in the courtyard. An exquisite six-course dinner at Sultanah (alcoholic beverages included, additional charge of OMR 120 per person) followed. To end the celebrations there was a band, more food and drinks as well as impressive fireworks at Turtle Beach. It was a very enjoyable evening!



Service throughout the resort was great. Staff was eager to please you at every possible opportunity. We also had the chance to chat with the general manager and other staff in senior positions. They mingled with the guests, which I found exemplarily. On New Year’s Day, the general manager of the Al Husn showed up at the pool, offered a Tequila Sunrise and wished a happy new year, a nice touch!

Date of stay: December 2012