– From $1150 (sea view deluxe room)
– Possibly my favourite hotel breakfast ever with excellent quality á la carte and buffet offerings
– Staff at breakfast were somewhat inattentive
For thousands of years frankincense from Oman has been the most sought after in the world, its value historically rivalling that of gold. Fitting, then, that its gentle scent floats in the air to greet you as you step through the huge carved wooden door and into the entrance of Oman’s most luxurious hotel, Al Husn.
With 180 rooms, but feeling much more intimate, Al Husn, is the most upmarket of the three hotels at Shangri-La Muscat’s Barr al Jissah resort. It’s a win-win situation. Guests get the extra privileges of staying at Al Husn but with the benefit of access to the rest of the 124 acre resort and its facilities.
Our deluxe sea view room had a balcony with a fantastic view over the resort and the surrounding barren hills which plunge into the glittering Sea of Oman. Inside, it was furnished in dark wood and fabrics in rich colours. Entertainment is provided by cable/satellite TV and Bose speaker with Bluetooth for connecting your Apple device. There is also a free minibar with beer and soft drinks (replenished daily) and a bathroom with plentiful toiletries and separate walk-in wardrobe area.
Al Husn guests benefit from breakfast; afternoon tea; generously poured pre-dinner drinks; a private 100 metre beach; and a beautiful adults only infinity pool. As soon as you select a lounger at the pool an attendant appears and will lay out your towels and provide a little cool box containing chilled drinks and Evian face spray. They return regularly with a fresh cool box to ensure a constant supply of cold drinks.
Travellers of yore on the frankincense trail did not have the benefits of such pampering but if you are travelling today and looking for luxury in beautiful surroundings, in a fascinating country, you’ll find it at Al Husn.