Best in travel oman

BESTINTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM OMAN EDITION 2018

EXPLORE THE MIDDLE EAST

DISCOVER

OMAN

Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

INSIDE: THE TOP SPA DESTINATIONS IN OMAN

Anantara Spa at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Publisher Kevin Rolfe Editor Siddharth Thaker Designers Mike Gibas Mark Askam Editorial Team Ana Strack Christopher O’Toole Rebecca Cohen Phil Blizzard Photography Mark Hakansson Ben Roberts Anjjelo San Buenaventura Business Development Chris Frost Sion Rapson Gina Reynolds Mike Sawicki

Production team Rasha Akar Nadeem George Denis Halilaj Tracy Rolfe Content management Marfee Ybañez Laarni Mendoza Suguitan Heizel Amora Juvilyn Camello Virendra Singh Bhanu Roel Christian Yambao Ai Ling Foong Trishia Delas Alas Kaycee Melon Jel Varca Athena Davadilla Online George Cooke

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world luxury | DAILY | Issue 38 | BEST IN TRAVEL

INTRODUCING

OMA And rightly so for if it’s an authentic taste of Arabia that you’re aer few places can match Oman.

Occupying the south east corner of the Arabian Peninsula, the country is blessed with beautiful beaches, rugged mountains, medieval fortresses, an-cient ruins and gossipy, garrulous souks –

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where you can pick up anything from frankincense and fridge magnets to cushion covers and khanjar dag-gers, and still have change from a fiver. Make no mistake: this is the Middle East of your imagination.

LUXURY THE PALM

AN The Sultanate is also a dream destination for golfers and spa-goers, who will find no shortage of gorgeous greens and sumptuous spas begging to be explored.

Add to this guaranteed year round sunshine, friendly locals and an enviable environmental record and you’ll soon see why Oman is stealing the show for Spring/Summer 2018.

OMAN IS HAVING A MOMENT. THE SULTANATE HAS SHAKEN OFF THE DUST GATHERED THROUGH DECADES OF HERMIT LIKE EXILE ON THE WORLD STAGE, TO EMERGE AS ONE OF THE MOST ALLURING DESTINATIONS.

Turn the page for Best In Travel Magazine’s guide to where to stay and what to do in this seductive Arab state…

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CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF TRAVEL EXCELLENCE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY Thursday 19 April 2018 Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, UAE th

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CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF TRAVEL EXCELLENCE

MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY Thursday 19 April 2018 Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, UAE th

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VISIT OM

IN SEARCH OF SOME WINTER SUN? WE HAVE THE ANSWER. STEP FOR SUNSHINE ALONGSIDE SPARKLING FJORDS AND SPECTACULAR DUNE

MAN

TEN REASONS WHY OMAN SHOULD BE ON YOUR BUCKET LIST

THE SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE

As any Omani will tell you, this magnificent mosque boasts an eight tonne Swarovski chandelier making it well worth a visit – especially since it’s the only mosque in Oman that is open to non-Muslims.

RWARD THE SULTANATE OF OMAN, WHICH SERVES UP YEAR ROUND STUDDED SCENERY. HERE’S TEN REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT.

Set against a backdrop of the Hajar Mountains, the Grand Mosque was inaugurated on 4 May 2001 when His Majesty Sultan Taboos commenced prayer on the world’s largest hand woven carpet. The mosque is so large it can accommodate upto 20,000 worshippers at once. www.sultanqaboosgrandmosque.com

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THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE Detractors may say that a pot of yoghurt has more culture than a Gulf country, but Oman’s legion of fans beg to differ. And rightly so forThe Sultanate of Oman does boast a striking Opera House – take a bow the Royal Opera House – that has garnered a reputation in the Gulf as a premier venue for performing arts.

Standouts this season include Peter Pan The Musical (early May) and legendary jazz singer Diana Reeves (26 April).

Alternatively gawp at the gold gilded balconies by joining a 30-minute guided tour, during which you can learn a lile more about the design. www.rohmuscat.org.om

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MUTTRAH SOUK This labyrinth like, gossipy market place could keep magpies contented for days. A real Aladdin’s cave, it’s brimming with jewellery stores selling antique silver earrings and necklaces in intricate Arabesque designs for a snip of the price you’d pay back home – plus vendors peddling frankincense, spices, sandalwood, sequinned slippers, aromatic out and whole host of Omani artefacts.

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BAIT MUZNA GALLERY This delightful art gallery – the first art gallery in Oman – lies opposite the Bayt Al Zubair Museum in Muscat and promotes Omani artists to the growing number of tourists who visit the Sultanate. The Gallery also serves as a great retreat from the searing Middle East heat.

Temptation abounds and it’s impossible to wander around the 11 fascinating rooms without returning to your hotel laden down with local prints and other pieces of Omani cra. www.baitmuznagallery.com/

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BAIT AL BARANDA MUSEUM Never mind Muscat. This museum near the fish souk end of Murah Corniche wouldn’t be out of place in cities like London, owing to its imaginative, interactive displays that depict everything from geology to ancient life, maritime, folk art and the achievements of Muscat today.

Boom line? It’s a great place to get to grips with Muscat’s past and present. baitalbaranda.mm.gov.om/

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MUSCAT’S UNDERWATER WORLD Everyone raves about the Red Sea – so much so that it’s easy to forget that there are plenty of world class diving locations off Oman’s coastline. What’s more, while the Red Sea can be as crowded as the London underground during rush hour, it’s easier to get that ‘off the beaten track feeling’ in Muscat – making it ideal for those who don’t want to share the sea with hordes of tourists.

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SALALAH

Situated in the southern corner of the country, the city of Salalah is known as the “perfume capital of Arabia’ and famed for its Frankincense trees. It’s popular with Omanis owing to its cooler climate and surprisingly verdant, almost tropical landscape.

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MUSANDAM PENINSULA Rooted in history and heritage, life in the Peninsula moves at a more sedate pace and Western influences are minimal.

The area boasts an embarrassment of riches – think breathtaking ords (not for nothing is the area known as ‘the Norway of Arabia’), craggy mountains, small fishing villages and crystal clear waters – all of which combine to make Musandam a slice of Arabian paradise.

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WAHIBAH SANDS The red hues of the dunes on the northern margin of the Wahibah Sands are warm, welcoming and comforting. Nothing can compare to the desert by night and, if there is no moon, you’ll be treated to an amazing view of the stars and the Milky Way. One caveat: be sure to travel in a group with a GPS tracking unit, as the desert is harsh if you get lost.

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JEBEL AKHDAR Meaning “Green Mountain” in English, Jebel Akhdar is situated 2,800m above sea level and is reached via a precarious 4x4 trip.

Aer a stunning river bed drive through villages and farms, you’ll proceed to the top of the Green

Mountain peak from where you can take in breathtaking views.

Pop into the World Travel Awards nominated Anantara Al Jabal Akhdar Resort or Alila Jabal Akhdar hotel for an Omani coffee, before heading back.

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MYSK AL MOUJ MYSK Al Mouj is the first of the ‘MYSK by Shaza’ upscale brand to launch under Shaza Hotels. MYSK by Shaza is a bold and friendly theatre of life that puts the spotlight on the ever-evolving Arabian lifestyle. MYSK Al Mouj is part of a multilocation relationship with Taameer Investments, one of the leading companies operating in the field of investment and real estate development in the Sultanate of Oman.

Sea, Sun and perSonality Under the ownership of Taameer Investments, part of the Golden Group of Companies lead by H.E. Sheikh Salim Al Ghazali Chairman of Golden Group Holding, the flagship hotel of MYSK by Shaza is a contemporary and trendy seing overlooking the vibrant marina of Al Mouj in Muscat, where the vibrant and cheerful ambience takes centre stage. Splash into delectable dining, stylish rooms and friendly service. Meet, reconnect and dive into a memorable stay.

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MYSK by Shaza, Al Mouj’s modern rooms capture a touch of local culture and thoughtfully designed props, such as the ample work space, warm lighting, smooth linen and rejuvenating shower experience.

At MYSK Al Mouj, food is a culture and a passion. A culinary performance with character and motifs from the East and West. At Salt, where the world of salt takes centre stage, offering a unique plot for the innovative Italian restaurant. The chefs at Pepper, follow a script anchored in simplicity, style and substance in plating international cuisine. Perched seven levels above the Plaza, Ghoroub Lounge offers you a front row seat to enjoy Muscat’s spectacular ocean and unrivalled views of Al Mouj Marina with our signature mocktails. And Gelateria offers the idyllic scenario, with some of the best ice cream in town. It’s your sweet retreat.

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But it’s not just about the food. There is also a stage for business, where the action and players meet. MYSK by Shaza, Al Mouj has two meeting rooms on the first floor with stimulating views of the lively community. Enjoy your well-deserved “me time”, play at the pool and exercise at our state of the art health club.

Shaza Hotels’ (a joint venture with Kempinski) noticed an opportunity in the four-star sector. The chance to re-imagine the usual plot and theme. Not a single upscale chain or individual hotel had a

distinct personality that really stood out by showcasing the richness of Arabian culture in terms of design, services and people.

And this is how the new story in hospitality started to come together with all the props, lighting, colour and cast in the form of MYSK by Shaza. MYSK is a fresh breeze that carries the essence of Shaza’s fragrance. It adds a signature aroma to the theatrical experience of life. hp://myskhotels.com/hotels/almoujmu scat/

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GRAND MILLENNIUM MUSCAT

A tribute to the rich, cultural, heritage and time honored values of Oman, the Grand Millennium Muscat Hotel is located in the heart of the city, close to the airport and is seamlessly connected to the Muscat Grand Mall.

Centrally located in the business, government, and diplomatic district, Grand Millennium Muscat Oman is uniquely convenient. Our 296 rooms and suites, and 32 spacious apartments, are all luxuriously appointed with everything you need. At our rejuvenating Zanta spa, you can indulge all of your senses. And if you’re here for business, our range of meeting rooms, Executive Lounge with panoramic views of the city, will ensure a productive time. Stay with us for a complete Muscat experience. www.millenniumhotels.com/en/muscat/grandmillennium-muscat/

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HILTO SALALA RESO

ON LAH ORT

Set on the shores of the Indian Ocean, this Hilton hotel offers stylish guest rooms, a range of recreational facilities and outstanding hospitality in the perfume capital of Arabia.

Hilton Salalah Resort is just a 15-minute drive from Salalah International Airport, via the hotel’s shule service. On arrival, enjoy enjoy a refreshing swim in the beachfront pool complex, featuring a waterslide and children's play area.

Then explore the range of exciting dining options: the Hilton Salalah Resort is home to five restaurants including Sea- Breeze Bar - an easygoing ocean view lounge - and Palm Grove, the perfect spot for a romantic dinner a deux.

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And don’t worry about the calories you’re consuming: you can always work them off in the fitness centre or by challenging friends and family to a game of tennis on one of two floodlit courts.

Accommodation, meanwhile, consists of 147 rooms and suites all boasting balconies and views of either the sea or garden, and are equipped with high-speed internet access meaning you can be as connected or as detached from the real world as you want.

www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/oman/hiltonsalalah-resort-SLLHIHI/index.html

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Discover Oman

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SHANGRI-LA AL HUSN RESORT & SPA Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa redefines Omani elegance and Asian hospitality... Standing majestically on a cliff top overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman, Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa presents a new model for luxury hospitality in Muscat.

LUXURY DESERT RESORTS

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As you arrive at the palatial Al Husn, which means “castle” in Arabic, traditionally dressed doormen stand within the heavy carved wooden doors to offer a royal welcome befiing a real Arabian palace. Within seconds, the journey from home to the hotel becomes a distant memory as you embrace the atmosphere drenched in tranquility – your stay at Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa has only just begun. www.shangri-la.com/muscat/alhusnresortandspa/

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INTERCONTINENTAL MUSCAT

L

Located on beach front and with a view of the Hajjar Mountains, this five-star resort is located in the heart of the city's residential, government and diplomatic quarter. The hotel's Palm Beach Club offers two floodlit tennis courts, a 25-metre olympic size pool, a leisure pool, a fully equipped fitness center, sauna,jacuzzi and easy access to the beach. Local sites of interest include the Grand Mosque and Amouage Perfume Factory.

www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/m uscat/mscha/hoteldetail

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Luxury Travel News, has one aim, to bring you luxury news from the exclusive VIP world of travel and tourism

Working across a multitude of social media platforms, delivering content in an easily digestible image lead format, we engage with those that live and experience a luxury lifestyle each and every day.

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HORMUZ GRAND MUSCAT

A RADISSON COLLECTION HOTEL Set where east meets west, the Radisson Collection Hotel, Hormuz Grand Muscat celebrates a new kind of luxury, rich in culture. Overlooking the Muscat mountains, our hotel’s iconic style and modern features are designed to exceed the expectations of the modern traveler. All guest rooms and suites boast unique features and spectacular views over the valleys and mountains. Our hotel’s central location is just a short drive from Muscat International Airport, and is the ideal base to sightsee from. This is a fascinating place, where traditional design still reigns supreme and the décor exudes elegance. www.radissoncollection.com/en/hormuz-grand-hotel

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SHERATON OMAN HOTEL

Built in 1985 and completely renovated in 2016, the Sheraton Oman Hotel is a landmark in the city of Muscat and has been a synonym for 5-star hospitality for over 3 decades. Located on top of Ruwi, the ďŹ nancial and business district of Muscat, the hotel is the tallest building in the city and has long been a part of the social fabric of the local community. www.sheratonoman.com

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AL NAHDA RESORT & SPA

Nestled in an oasis of thirty acres of gardens, enclosed by sprawling greens and clusters of mango trees, Al Nahda Resort & Spa provides the ultimate in tranquility and relaxation. The resort’s 109 rooms are designed in apartment, free-standing villa and bungalow styles and boast some of the largest rooms in Oman. The Uru Spa is one of

the most unique spa concepts in the Middle East with 31 treatments oering wellness and healing therapies, as well as signature treatments and a host of other relaxing, medical and rejuvenating experiences.

www.alnahdaresort.com/experience-alnahda

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CROWNE PLAZA

LUXURY DESERT RESORTS

A SOHAR

Welcome to the Crowne Plaza Sohar hotel, a luxurious retreat close to Sohar's commercial heartland. Emerge from the desert into the lush, manicured gardens at Crowne Plaza Sohar. Subtle Arabic motifs punctuate our soaring, four-storey atrium as it rises in marble to a light-ďŹ lled dome.

Check in and make your way to our spacious Marsa Malaz Kempinski showcases the European swimming pool, relax byďŹ nest the poolside bar and at the architecture, blended with traditional Arabian elements of it sun deck. Saunas and steam rooms awaitininallour 281 luxurious rooms - including 69 can suites, twoyour Presidential suites luxury spa, or you loosen tie and challenge and two Royal suites.

Each spacious room friends in our bowling alley.provides the latest technology, along with personalized service from our butlers, catering to your www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/sohar/s every need 24 hours a day. orcp/hoteldetail

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CROWNE PLAZA RESORT SALALAH

LUXURY DESERT RESORTS

Recline on our well-lit beach and by the pool with sumptuous cuisine at the relaxing Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah. Receive a warm welcome from friendly Omani staff as you cross 42 acres of lush, landscaped gardens and enter into the gleaming lobby of Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah. We'll show you to your room or suite, or point you towards our 3 interconnecting pools, tennis and squash courts or par-3 garden golf course. A courtesy shule bus whisks you from Salalah International Marsa Malaz Kempinski showcases the European Airport to Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah in 25finest minutes.

We combine a architecture, blended with traditional Arabian elements allminutes' of it resort getaway with easy access to the centre of Salalah, justin10 luxurious rooms - including suites, twoturquoise Presidential suites drive281 away.

Lush hotel gardens lead69 to the gentle waters, andagainst two Royal suites. Each spacious room provides the latest lapping beach. technology, along with personalized service from our butlers, catering to your every need 24 hours a day. www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/salalah/sllss/hoteldetail

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H O T E L T R A V E L N E W S

Hotel Travel News helps guide you through the minefield of choice. We report each day on what’s new, what’s relaunched, and showcase the great and the good; from resorts to boutique properties and the advancment of AirBNB and its effect for us all

Working across a multitude of social media platforms, delivering content in an easily digestible image lead format, we engage with those that live and experience a luxury lifestyle each and every day.

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This luxury beach resort near Salalah and in the heart of the scenic Dhofar region in Oman, is the perfect retreat. The Mirbat Marrio Resort is a 40 minutes scenic drive from Salalah International Airport via hotel's complimentary shule service. The 5-star nearby Salalah hotel offers 237 beachfront luxury rooms the perfect accommodation choice to kick back and indulge in a relaxed family vacation, group holiday, couples romantic retreat, diving trip or weekend gateway.

MIRBAT MARRIOTT RESORT

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Situated on Mirbat beach, the resort is an ideal retreat for anyone seeking exclusive surroundings, tranquility and ultimate privacy. Facilities include four excellent restaurants, a bar, a fabulous outdoor swimming pool with swim-up bar and Health Club and Spa. Discover the lush greenery of Wadi Darbat during Khareef season, magnificent sand dunes and local ancient Mirbat forts of the Dhofar region. www.marrio.com/hotels/travel/sllms-mirbat-marrioresort/

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OMAN AIR Founded in 1993, Oman Air is the flagship carrier of the Sultanate of Oman and an Official 4 Star Airline. In the years since the airline witnessed massive growth and has played a major role in making Muscat an important traffic hub in the Middle East, supporting the commercial, industrial and tourism sectors.

Kathmandu in Nepal; and Colombo in Sri Lanka. The airline also flies to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Jakarta in the Far East, Guangzhou in China and Nairobi in Kenya. Its European destinations are London, Manchester, Milan, Munich, Frankfurt, Paris and Zurich.

The airline currently operates direct international flights from Muscat to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, Madina, and Kuwait, in the Gulf region, as well as Cairo, Amman, Tehran, Mashhad, Najaf, Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaam within the wider Middle East/Africa region.

Oman Air’s domestic destinations are Salalah, Khasab and Duqum. It also serves five additional domestic points for The Duqm Special Economic Zone Authority (SEZAD), Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) and Occidental, which are JNJ (Duqm), OMM (Marmul), RNM (Qarn AlAlam), UKH (Mukhaizinah) and FAU (Fahud).

In addition, Oman Air flies to 11 destinations in India (Goa, Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, Delhi, Lucknow, Bangalore, Kozhikode and Jaipur); Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore in Pakistan;

Oman Air’s soon-to-be-launched destinations for this year are Istanbul (Turkey) from June 1st, Casablanca (Morocco) from July 1st and Moscow (Russia) from October 28th.

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Oman’s national carrier has codeshare agreements with a number of airline partners. These are: Luhansa, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Etihad, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Turkish Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, KLM, Garuda Airlines, Thai Airways, Saudia, Malaysia Airlines and Kenyan Airways offering travellers beer connectivity and increased choice.

Currently Oman Air’s fleet consists of seven Boeing 787 Dreamliners, six Airbus 330300s, four Airbus 330-200s, five Boeing 737-900s, 21 Boeing 737800, four Embraer 175s and two 737 MAX. More aircra will join the fleet in the coming days. By 2022, Oman Air’s total fleet size is expected to be around 66.

Oman Air’s outstanding aircra interiors include its First Class Mini Suite, which provides each of the six First Class passengers with direct aisle access and converts to the longest lie-flat seat in the skies. The A330’s outstanding Business Class seats

each provide direct aisle access, ample storage space and the latest technological amenities.

Economy Class seats offer adjustable head and leg rests, together with generous leg and elbow room. State of the art inflight entertainment systems feature individual seatback screens, audio and video on demand and live satellite TV. In addition, Oman Air has pioneered both mobile telephony and Internet connectivity on board its flights and this is available in all three classes.

Superb new First and Business Class lounges have been opened at Muscat International Airport, featuring elegant and tranquil relaxation areas, complimentary spa treatments and à la carte dining. In addition, premium check-in facilities and a First Class lounge-to-aircra limousine service are offered to passengers at Muscat.

www.omanair.com

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WORLD’S LEADING

HOTEL

LS &RESORTS Whether it is for business or purely for pleasure, World's Leading Hotels & Resorts has a daily selection of news, insights and exciting new destinations featuring the world’s very best and most luxurious properties.

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OMAN

SPA ANANTARA SPA AT ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR RESORT Set 6,500 feet (2,000 metres) above sea level on the Saiq Plateau of Jabal Ahkdar (Green Mountain), Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort’s location is sublime.

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SPA ANANTARA SPA AT ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR RESORT The Spa has a hammam, indoor pools, rain showers, separate male and female thermal suites, ďŹ ve luxurious spa treatment rooms in which to be preened and pampered, a Himalayan salt steam room and an Aroma infused sauna room.

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OMAN

SPA ANANTARA SPA AT ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR RESORT Signature treatments use local ingredients such as rose and pomegranate and can last between 60 minutes to a whole day. jabal-akhdar.anantara.com/spas

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SPA AL BALEED RESORT SALALAH

By ANANTARA Up until fairly recently, most travellers to Oman tended to stay within the northern reaches, around the capital, Muscat, and the Musandam Peninsu-la.

That all changed with the opening of Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara in August 2016. Between a beach and freshwater lagoon, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara oers refreshing luxury, and a gateway to Oman's cultural treasures.

Tropical gardens and luscious water features greet you upon arrival, while plush comfortable interiors await in your accommodation.

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SPA AL BALEED RESORT SALALAH

By ANANTARA However the jewel in Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara’s crown is, inar-guably, Anantara spa. Designed to reflect local culture and crasmanship, the luxurious spa feels like an Arabian villa.

Featuring five treatment rooms alongside separate male and female wet ar-eas, relaxation areas, a Thai massage room and a nail spa, guests can ex-perience a range of treatments in total privacy with the highly skilled therapists.

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OMAN

SPA AL BALEED RESORT SALALAH

By ANANTARA Harnessing precious ingredients such as frankincense as well as bananas, coconuts and pomegranates from nearby plantations, each treatment has been designed to renew from tip to toe, whether it’s a stimulating body polish, therapeutic massage, replenishing wrap, radiant facial or ancient Ayurvedic treatment.

Proven to rejuvenate skin, the region’s most famous ingredient is utilised in The Frankincense Ritual, a unique massage experience whereby two ther-apists perform four hand synchronised massage techniques over the entire body.

For a replenishing experience, the Coconut Indulgence begins with a full body brush using coconut shells, then guests are wrapped in fresh banana leaves to detoxify and re-energise, followed by a relaxing massage using warm coconut buer.

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OMAN

SPA AL BALEED RESORT SALALAH

By ANANTARA Meanwhile couples staying at the resort can indulge in romantic sideby-side massages surrounded by scaered rose petals and flickering candle-light.

Guests can also treat their minds and bodies to a traditionally inspired hammam experience, the first in Salalah. The age-old ritual that originated in Ooman culture purifies the body, cleansing it from toxins and stimulating the immune system.

Surrounded by beautiful heated marble, bodies are scrubbed thoroughly to increase blood circulation and awaken the senses before relaxing with a cleansing olive foam soaping, nourishing mask and massage.

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OMAN

SPA AL BALEED RESORT SALALAH

By ANANTARA Meanwhile, the rasul treatment room allows guests to apply natural mineral mud to their face and body before relaxing in steam to leave skin beautifully soî…š. salalah.anantara.com/spas

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OMAN

SPA SPA ALILA AT ALILA JABAL AKHDAR Featuring seven treatment and changing rooms, a Vichy shower room and Jacuzzis, Spa Alila at the ultra luxurious Alila Jabal Akhdar is a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to pampering you from head to toe, restoring a sense of total well-being.

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OMAN

SPA SPA ALILA AT ALILA JABAL AKHDAR Step back in time in the steam room where the air is ďŹ lled with a mist of heady, earthy and cleansing oils, grounded in frankincense and juniper berry, reminiscent of ancient Oman.

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OMAN

SPA SPA ALILA AT ALILA JABAL AKHDAR Alternatively take relaxation to new heights - quite literally - with the new Spa Arbour, an alfresco wellness suite perched 2,000 meters above sea level on the edge of the canyon.

Choose from three 60 or 90 minute spa treatments exclusive to the spa and unwind while admiring majestic views of the Al Hajar mountain range. www.alilahotels.com/jabalakhdar/ spa-alila

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OMAN

SPA SIX SENSES SPA ZIGHy BAy Set between the craggy Hajar Mountains and a mile-long sandy beach in the Omani enclave of Musandam, lies Six Senses Spa at Zighy Bay. A refuge for mind and body, it's a retreat from the busy humdrum of daily life; a sanctuary of ultimate wellbeing.

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OMAN

SPA SIX SENSES SPA ZIGHy BAy Commiî…&#x;ed to delivering integrated wellness experiences along with peace, tranquility, ďŹ tness and health, the spa combines innovative and ancient holistic treatments - all administered by skilled therapists and visiting practitioners.

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OMAN

SPA SIX SENSES SPA ZIGHy BAy Stressed-out guests can sign up for a wellness screening, whereby sta measure and analyse key physiological biomarkers and then design a personalised programme of treatments, exercise and wellness therapies.

www.sixsenses.com/resorts/ zighy-bay/spa

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OMAN

SPA CHI THE SPA AT SHANGRI-LA'S BARR AL JISSAH RESORT & SPA Chi, the universal life force that governs well-being and personal vitality, is the philosophy behind this spa.

To maintain good health, it is believed that chi must flow freely within the body in order to prevent disease and ensure that you are free from blockages.

Designed to create a sanctuary of tranquillity inspired by the legend of “Shangri-La,” CHI features some of the largest and most luxurious private spa suites and villas in Oman, all within a secluded, village-like seing of hectares of lush landscaped gardens. There are 12 treatment villas, eight of which are doubles (at 130-140 square metres each) and four for single guests. Each has a private bathroom and vanity area, shower, bath and relaxation area, and a garden court complete with outdoor showers.

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OMAN

SPA CHI THE SPA AT SHANGRI-LA'S BARR AL JISSAH RESORT & SPA CHI, The Spa offers a range of specialised body, water, massage and facial therapies based on ancient healing traditions, philosophies and rituals. In addition to signature treatments, CHI The Spa offers a range of treatments using natural Omani ingredients combined with traditional local health and beauty practices.

Locally grown frankincense, renowned for its healing, anti-ageing and calming properties has been incorporated into specially developed base essential oils and clays, providing a Middle Eastern sensory experience in the form of facials, body wraps, scrubs, bath oils and soap.

The three-and-a-half-hour signature treatment, Journey of Arabia includes a choice of hammam – a traditional therapy with deep roots in the Middle East using traditional black soap and eucalyptus essential oil or Coffee Scrub using crushed beans as an exfoliant to increase the absorption of the soon-tobe-applied lotions.

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OMAN

SPA CHI THE SPA AT SHANGRI-LA'S BARR AL JISSAH RESORT & SPA Another distinctly Omani feature is the separate hammam facilities for men and women, comprising a steam room and bathing areas with seating coves where up to eight guests can relax before or aer their treatments.

A six-foot wide octagonal Italian marble plinth is the hammam’s focal point and the spot where guests lie down and experience a selection of herbal packs created especially by the spa director for this facility. The hammam area is covered from floor to ceiling in intricate and colourful mosaic tiles.

In accordance with local tradition, there are separate male and female wet facilities decorated with floor toceiling elaborate mosaics and playful fountains.

The design of the spa facilities reflects the overall CHI concept, with an emphasis on the mysticism of Shangri-La and the luxury of personal space. The décor complements and enhances this concept using local Omani architectural accents and a subtle sprinkling of Himalayan art and accessories. www.shangri-la.com/muscat/ barraljissahresort/chi-the-spa/

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Spa Travel News helps you decide which spa destination to choose, what type of treatments you might prefer, and the general lowdown on the great and good of this growing and changing sector of the travel industry.

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AL BUSTAN PA

ALACE HOTEL Tucked between the Al Hajar mountain range and the Sea of Oman, Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel — one of the premier five star hotels in Muscat — welcomes guests with customs steeped in ancient traditions and contemporary comfort. From luxury accommodations, guests can gaze upon inspiring sea or mountain views, relax on a pristine, private beach or dine in one of three celebrated restaurants — all of which will stir memories for a lifetime.

www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/oman/al-bustan

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SHAN BARR RESOR

NGRI-LA R AL JISSAH ORT & SPA The deep turquoise blue water of the Sea of Oman is hypnotic, contrasting vividly with the majestic mountains that rise behind the resort. This is the fascination of Oman. The experience is elevated at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Sultanate of Oman. Two hotels await your arrival. Approaching Al Waha, your excitement heightens as a man-made tunnel through the mountain leads you to a sanctuary facing the Gulf of Oman. As a family-focused hotel, Al Waha lives up to its name, with several swimming pools merging to form a serene oasis.

Date palms and traditional Dhofari architecture remind you that you are in Arabia. www.shangri-la.com/muscat/barraljissahresort/

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GRAND HyATT MUSCAT Sited in the heart of the Embassy and Ministry district of the city in Shai Al Qurm, majestic surroundings and traditional Omani hospitality combine for a truly unforgeable stay. The white, sandy stretch of Shai Al Qurum beach is situated directly outside Grand Hya Muscat hotel. This public beach on the Gulf of Oman is lined with palm trees and has jogging paths, walkways and picnic areas located beside it. Grand Hya Muscat is perfect for both business and leisure pursuits. For a weekend in Muscat or if you're staying longer, it is one of the largest and most opulent luxury hotels Muscat has to offer, with 280 stylishly appointed hotel rooms & suites, with a remarkable Arabian style interior design. muscat.grand.hya.com/en/hotel/home.html

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Where the majestic Al Hajar Mountains meet their luminous reflection in the serene waters of the Gulf of Oman, The Chedi Muscat rises amidst an elegantly landscaped twenty-one acre garden oasis with 158 Omani influenced guestrooms and villas. This sublime yet central location equally suits leisure and business travellers while six distinct restaurants, a thirteen-suite Balinese spa, three swimming pools, including the 103-metre Long Pool, 700-square-metre health club plus two executive meeting rooms enhance Muscat’s considerable cultural aractions. www.ghmhotels.com/en/muscat/

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ALIL A

LUXURY DESERT RESORTS

The destination is at the heart of The Alila Experience… and is yours to explore with the guidance of our Alila Leisure Concierge team. Enhance your holiday with lifestyle activities tailored to individual interests across five themes – Cultural Learning (love of history and artisanship), Conscious Living (wellness, environs and community), Active Spirits (outdoor sporting pursuits), Culinary Arts (cooking school and food trails) and Couple Celebration. From trekking, canyon walks, cave exploration and other outdoor pursuits, to discovering the region's cultural and culinary traditions, embark on bespoke experiences for a truly memorable holiday. www.alilahotels.com/jabalakhdar

LA JABAL AKHDAR

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Delivering the best news on this exciting and ever changing market and working in conjunction with the leading world luxury events.

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SIX SENSES ZI

LUXURY DESERT RESORTS

ZIGHy BAy Six Senses Zighy Bay Resort is located on the northern Musandam Peninsula in the Sultanate of Oman. The seî…&#x;ing of these beautiful indigenous village-style accommodations and private marina is spectacular, with the dramatic mountains on one side and the sandy beach of Zighy Bay on the other. Tantalize your senses: feel the sand beneath your toes; listen as your sunset dhow cruise glides through waves; taste culinary delights of the region. www.sixsenses.com/resorts/zighybay/destination

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ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR RESORT A rare jewel in the rocky contours of the Saiq Plateau on Oman’s fabled Green Mountain, our unique retreat perches 2,000 metres above sea level on the curving rim of a great canyon. Elevated in both location and authentic luxury, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is the highest five star resort in the Middle East and amongst the highest in the world.

Elegant architecture reflects the mountainous surrounds and Oman’s artistic culture. Contemporary design motifs depict the region’s ancient forts. Experience how indigenous elements blend seamlessly with world class accommodation and facilities at this distinctive Oman resort. Hide away in a private villa with a temperaturecontrolled pool, or our prestigious three bedroom villa the most luxurious in the country. A striking infinity pool with a belvedere offers an illustrious seing for relaxation.

Anantara Spa’s luxuriant hammam pampers with Arabian cleansing rituals, and helps you jabal-akhdar.anantara.com/

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RADISSON BLU

U HOTEL SOHAR Whether you’re visiting Sohar for business or leisure, our resort hotel offers everything you need, including direct access to the pristine beach and proximity to the port and Sohar Industrial Estate. Aer a day of meetings or exploring, relax in one of our 179 stylish rooms and suites, each with 5-star amenities like free highspeed Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. www.radissonblu.com/en/hotelsohar

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CROWNE PLAZA A beachfront hotel for business and leisure by Duqm Port Every room has a sea view at the Crowne PlazaÂŽ Duqm hotel. Situated midway between Salalah and Muscat on the beautiful coast of Oman, it is less than 10 km from the fast-developing commercial and industrial hub of Duqm. Business travelers can host meetings in four state-of-the-art conference rooms, a prestigious executive boardroom and two magniďŹ cent ballrooms

with the support of a Crowne Meetings Director. To relax, join colleagues for tennis in the superb Fitness Center, or for a night of karaoke at The Frontier Restaurant and Sports Pub. Wi-Fi and parking are complimentary for hotel guests. www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/duqm/dqqo m/hoteldetail

LUXURY DESERT RESORTS

A DUQM Marsa Malaz Kempinski showcases the ďŹ nest European architecture, blended with traditional Arabian elements in all of it 281 luxurious rooms - including 69 suites, two Presidential suites and two Royal suites. Each spacious room provides the latest technology, along with personalized service from our butlers, catering to your every need 24 hours a day.

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AL BALEED RESORT SALALAH by AnAn Between a beach and freshwater lagoon, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara offers refreshing luxury, and also a gateway to Oman’s cultural treasures. Experience a beachfront oasis that is the first luxury villa resort of its kind in Salalah, along the south coast of Dhofar.

Admire how history, culture and nature unite in striking

elegance to honour the destination. Middle Eastern design reflects Dhofar’s rich heritage and is inspired by the region’s iconic coastal fortresses. Intricate, artistic details complement the princely comforts, unparalleled amongst Salalah hotels.

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Walkways are surrounded by towering palms, magnificent trees, tropical gardens and lush water features, creating tranquil journeys to new discoveries. Relax at the exotic infinity pool, or soak up the sea view from our private shore. Ancient spa rituals performed by highly

skilled therapists await you. Children’s and teens’ clubs engage younger guests with their own pool, creative activities and local adventures. salalah.anantara.com/

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FANAR HOTEL &

& RESIDENCES Benefiting from stunning views across the Indian Ocean, we offer a selection of well-appointed rooms and suites that are an ideal choice for business visitors, families, tourists or anyone that deserves to experience first class surroundings and service.

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Our guests enjoy exceptional accommodation, exquisite menus and a wide range of activities and pastimes, as well as dedicated assistance from our enthusiastic, considerate team, who are commiî…&#x;ed to making your stay with us an unforgeî…&#x;able experience. fanarhotel.com/

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KEMPINSKI HO

Located in the beautiful and modern community of Al Mouj, Muscat, and encompassing over six kilometers of stunning coastline, 5 star Kempinski Hotel Muscat is an unparalleled luxury destination in the capital of Oman. The hotel allows visitors to revel in the beauty of both the location and warm Omani hospitality. It features 310 comfortable and welcoming rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meetings and events facilities, worldclass restaurants and bars, a fully equipped fitness centre and a luxury spa – however long you choose to stay with us, the hotel lets visitors truly immerse themselves in life’s finer things. www.kempinski.com/en/muscat/kempinski-hotel-muscat/

OTEL MUSCAT

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SALALAH ROTA RESORT Welcome to the luxurious Salalah Rotana Resort in Oman where you will be embraced by the traditional warm and friendly Omani hospitality. Set along the shores of the Indian Ocean, Salalah Rotana Resort is a scenic 35km drive from Salalah Airport. The 5-star waterfront resort's 422 splendid rooms and suites are beautifully built at the ocean front, around lagoons, water features and manmade canals for an

unforgeî…&#x;able experience. In-room furnishings including beds, tables and sofas have been integrated into the main walls with Arabesque geometric designs constructed using traditional techniques. www.rotana.com/rotanahotelandresorts/oman/salal ah/salalahrotanaresort

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