TRAVEL | Top 10 Best Hotels and Accommodations in Oman

Top 10 Best Hotels and Accommodations in Oman

For the record, it has been two months since the quarantine has been implemented. Nobody is allowed to go anywhere, not even to the grocery store. Welcome to the Philippines, but to be fair everyone across the World is suffering the same plight and this is for the benefit of everyone so who are we to complain.

For this entry, I will be sharing with you the top 10 hotels and accommodations in Muscat, Oman. Yes, that country beside UAE. It is quite interesting that not many people know of Oman, when in fact great stories like Sinbad the Sailor was the origin of the myth; Rub Al'Khali desert in the region of Salalah down south is said to be the setting of the Atlantis of the Sands; and of course, frankincense was born from the trees found in Salalah.

That being said, let's begin our countdown of the top ten hotels in Oman.

RUNNERS UP:

  

W HOTEL

Modern and full of energy, this 5-star property is situated in beachfront area so guests are treated with a full view of the ocean. It is also a walking distance to the Royal Opera House, so if you are into operas - this hotel is for you. You save yourself from taxi when you head to the opera house and back to your hotel room. PLUS, the entertainment energy is high in here. Would probably say that they have the best clubbing experience in terms of facility and selection of drinks. It is still a runners-up in my list though because it just opened in early 2019 so it has a lot of catching up to do against its competitors. 

W Hotel Muscat

GRAND HYATT MUSCAT 

This 5-star boutique hotel is also a beachfront property, probably one of the oldest in the industry. The hotel has more classical approach to its interior with elegant pillars and warm lighting tones, the hotel fits perfectly the relaxed guests who look for quiet moments. Apart from the almost greco-arabian feels of the hotel, it houses the best Italian restaurant in Muscat as well bars and clubs which are very popular to all crowds - one only needs to choose. But if clubbing is not your interest, why not walk by the promenade and breathe in the Arabian air coming from the sea. The regular joggers at night as well as Omani families having picnics by the grass is always an interesting sight.

Grand Hyatt Muscat

THE CHEDI

Well there is no denying that The Chedi is one of the best luxury properties in Oman (they are almost always fully booked). The exclusive and private atmosphere that this hotel gives stems from its top of the line facilities and interiors that are difficult to match. It is also probably one of the few hotels that restricts children, giving it a more quiet environment. It has a private beach access and boasts of the longest outdoor swimming pool in Oman, as well fine dining options reserved for guests only. From its Serai rooms up to its Chedi Club Suites and Villas, the touch of luxury is always present. This hotel is best for honeymooners.

The Chedi Muscat

Now that we are done with my sentimental RUNNERS-UP hotels, we take a look at my top five selections. In order to select among the many potential properties, I looked at the hotel's interior design, hotel service, experience and entertainment. Plus I also considered their location and price value according to what they can offer.

10 | KEMPINSKI | Hotel inside an exclusive community

Kempinski, a 5-star property, is also one of the youngest players in the industry. But despite that, it was able to attract many guests because it redefines the hotel experience. Situated inside an exclusive community called the "The Wave" - Kempinski allows the guests to have a glimpse of how people live in Oman. When they reach the hotel, they immediately see the ocean from its glass windows. With various options for dining from Thai to Indian to buffet; the choice is for the guests to make. And the Zale bar is a perfect way to cap the day while the resident DJ spins the house music. One thing you shouldn't miss from the "The Kitchen" is the amazing seafood prepared by the hotel's chef. 

See related article: Kempinski Hotel Muscat

Kempinski Muscat

9 | CROWNE PLAZA MUSCAT | Atop a hill overlooking the rustic city

Next on our list is the 4-star beach hotel, Crowne Plaza Muscat (not to be confused with Crowne Plaza OCEC). This hotel sits atop a hill overlooking the city with a view of the Shatti-Qurum area. The rooms in this hotel are pretty smaller compared to its 5-star competitors, but it has recently had a make over and the infinity pool looks so classy. What amazing view you get in the morning becomes even better at night, as lights flood the streets - the mood becomes more romantic. In that case, help yourself with a selection of fine dining restaurants or maybe just sit by the garden and listen to the live band that plays on schedule. On some days, I just like to visit this hotel; sit by the open tables and have a mug of Hoegarden beeer with a slice of lemon. So if you ever decide to stay in this hotel, you have to come out and have a stroll. See the Omani families sit together and enjoy their time. If you fancy some shisha, you will find some shops that offer. But I tend to go to Al Makkan, where mostly the guests are Omanis.

Crowne Plaza Muscat

8 | ROTANA SALALAH RESORT | Beachfront and has a wide array of experience options

So when heading Salalah, one of my top choices for accommodation is Rotana Salalah Resort. A five star property relatively lower to its competitors, the hotel is not only close to the airport, but also has a direct access to the beach.  One thing that strikes a visitor the most about Rotana Salalah is the option to stay in either their Deluxe Rooms or Club Deluxe Rooms. The difference is in the inclusions in meals. Also, this is one of the few properties in Oman that offer All Inclusive dining experience so for those who are into liquor, then this property is for you. I especially like the authentic Arabian experience that it exudes. You'll notice how their interior stayed faithful to the Arabian traditions. This hotel is also adjacent to other neighboring hotels such as Al Fanar and Juweira Boutique Hotel (accessible by walk or buggy ride).

Rotana Salalah  Resort

7 | ANANTARA AL JABAL AKHDAR  | Luxury for those who seek it

Well I have not personally visited this hotel, but everyone I spoke to only had excellent reviews of this property. One of the few five star hotels built on a mountainous terrain offers a truly unique experience. Imagine waking up in the morning and seeing the canyons of Oman, or chill into your own private pool as you bask under the stillness and quiet of the mountain. It just couldn't get any better than that. This is what luxury is made for. I know for a fact that guests are treated with utmost care in this hotel - almost like being served as kings and queens, because that's what guests want to feel like. Perfect for honeymooners.

Anantara Al Jabal Akhdar

6 | RAS AL JINZ TURTLE RESERVE | Stay and experience turtle

Wildlife in Oman is a primary concern to the locals, so anything that deals with the preservation of nature is a priority. Turtles and turtle hatchlings are one of the key attractions in the coastal parts of this country. Guests gets a glimpse of this natural event usually from February to April annually. And if you ever do, better stay in Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve and choose the Family Tent. It is a luxury tent experience, with comfortable sleeping mattresses and airconditioned room and private toilets. This hotel is also the only sanctioned property in Sur, Oman to organize turtle watching activities. Kids will love this.

Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Now down to our last five properties in Oman, you may have noticed that I usually mention the terrain of the hotel because Oman has a dynamic landscape ranging from the coastal to desert to mountain - and best part of it is that they are all accessible by 4WD. It is also easy to navigate the country thanks to updated GPS devices. The roads are remarkably done and people all over the country are helpful (most can speak English so communication will never be a barrier). 

5 | AL BALEED RESORT SALALAH | White beach and Omani interiors

One of the top tier properties in Salalah (and arguably the best), this 5-star hotel offers a luxury experience to its visitors down South of Oman with its private villas. What I really like about this hotel is that the beach here is filled with white sand which makes gives it a more tropical/Caribbean feel to it. The interior also speaks volume about the history of Oman with so many architectural touches inspired by the Omani culture. Another plus is if you stay in this hotel, you can easily access the Al Baleed Site, something that people who loves history will enjoy. And the hotel also features live bands, so it will not be boring. Trust me.

Al Baleed Resort Salalah

4 | DESERT NIGHTS CAMP | Quiet and solitude with starry skies

When heading towards the Wahiba Desert, the nearest camp with 4-star quality will be Desert Nights Camp. The camp site is easily accessible by a 4WD (with deflated tires). The rooms are of luxury camp standard, fully air conditioned with en suite toilets. They are also quite distant from each other to give guests their privacy. I remember the amber afternoons in the camp site when the sun glows dimmer at dusk, the landscape is covered in pitch darkness. You can see the stars from the camp and what a beautiful site it was. Fancy a campfire - DNC allows them in the site especially during the Winter months when it is chilly. Tip, DNC is the only camp in the desert that serves alcohol (so I guess that's a plus point).

Desert Nights Camp

3 | ALILA JABAL AKHDAR | With spectacular views of the Grand Canyon

This hotel was the first 5-star property in the mountains of Jabal Akhdar (translated as Green Mouintain). I was a non-believer at first, thinking why should anybody choose to stay in a hotel situated in the mountain? But my doubts were all gone when I saw how beautiful Alila Jabal Akhdar is. Perhaps the long 2.5 hour drive from Muscat made the stay in this hotel a sweet one. The moment you set foot in its entrance, you already get the sense that your stay will be awesome. A big portion of the staff in Alila are local Omanis and you will be surprised at how kind and hospitable they are. I love sitting by the restaurant decks and just looking at the expanse of the Grand Canyon. It was all too peaceful and therapeutic. The villas and accommodation are magnificent as they have the views of the mountain ridges as well. At night, you can hear the chirping of the cicadas.

Alila Jabal Akhdar

2 | AL BUSTAN PALACE A RITZ CARLTON HOTEL

Al Bustan Palace, has a 5-star rating and a consistent favorite of foreign guests as it offers luxury standards expected from its brand. Its location gives it an atmosphere of privacy as it far from the hustle and bustle of the city, and yet accessible via car transport. The fancy interiors and the infinity pool are some of its key selling features. And fresh from its recent renovation, the infamous chandelier in the lobby exhibits its magnificence. The hotel is adjacent to the Marina, so it is accessible to water activities such as diving and dolphin watching. It is also close to the touristic spots like the Al Alam Palace, Muttrah Souq and Corniche.

Al Bustan Palace a Ritz Carlton Hotel

1 | SHANGRI-LA BARR AL JISSAH RESORT AND SPA | Accommodation, food and entertainment are all top of the line

And finally, my favorite of all hotels - Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah. To give you an idea, Michael Jackson stayed in this property so you can say it has luxury to it fit for VVIP. So the hotel has three main parts - Al Waha, Al Bandar and Al Husn. The Al Waha and Al Bandar are the more family friendly parts, with children facilities found in Al Waha. They also have a shared and popular lazy river. The other part if the Al Husn which is more for adults and does not allow children. It is housed in a further location, which has a private cove for itself only accessible to the guests. All three hotels are facing the sea or the garden. The beach in Al Waha and Al Bandar is vast and allow a decent jog in the morning. During the winter season, the pools of Shangri-la are also heated making it conducive for swimming even if it is cold. But probably the best and highlight of Shangri-La is their exquisite food - seafood and steak to be precise. How I remember the tasty meals it offered during one of my stays.

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

What's your favorite hotels in Oman? Share them with us, comment below.