Al Bustan Palace A Ritz Carlton Hotel – a star studded luxury getaway in Muscat beckons visitors
Close your eyes and transport yourself to your dream holiday destination. There are no prizes for guessing, but nine times out of ten, it would certainly be far away from the city lights and noise, in the most serene of locations that has just the quiet murmur of the sea for company, chirping of birds for music and heady perfume of nature.
Add to this dream a stunning palace appointed with the most comfortable rooms, out-of-this-world views, heavenly beach, great food and unmatched service and you are transported to nowhere else but paradise, if it really exists.
Coming back to reality, there is indeed such a place that has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday, an unforgettable wedding or even the perfect atmosphere for conducting a tough business negotiation.
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Comfortable guests rooms, (below) the acrobatic Chinese tea sommelier is among the many memorable guests experiences at the hotel |
We are talking about the legendary Al Bustan Palace A Ritz Carlton Hotel in Muscat, Oman, a resort that was originally built to host the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit, 26 years ago. This proud and aristocratic ‘jewel of the Sultanate’ is like a crystal gleaming through an emerald green oasis, with dramatic mountains as its backdrop and a stunning stretch of coastline on its front.
Bewitching its visitors with its architectural brilliance, artistically fused elements from both local traditions and art deco influences, the property has never failed to impress, be it the rich and the famous, royalty or the creatively inclined.
Blending the richness of Arabian culture, art and history, the majesty of this recently renovated property includes intricate handcrafted wall coverings and original carvings and the surrounding 200 acres of lush beachfront landscaping.
One of the most talked about features that resonates the sheer elegance of this beautiful hotel is its 38-m high domed atrium lobby with its one-of-a-kind $1 million HPS/Czechoslovakian-designed 5.5 tonne chandelier that hangs 18 m from the ceiling and has a circumference that spans over 8.5 m.
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Right below, shimmering drops of water, reflecting the lights of the chandelier, tumble down a custom-made crystal fountain with a crystal vase at the centre. Critiques have not stopped raving about the subtle grace with which the water flows into the octagonal stone carved base.
Islamic motifs made in rosewood and inlaid with mother-of-pearl and gold are embellished on to large intricate panels made of five types of wood on the surrounding walls. The lustre of this room is said to have an everlasting effect on all.
However, what completes the entire set up is the emphasis on personal attention that is designed to delight the pickiest of guests. Bernard Viola, general manager, said: “Our hotel is a national landmark that complements the country’s heritage. Its unique design and culturally rich atmosphere has created an authentic experience for guests.
“Al Bustan Palace has a certain charm and mystique that you cannot put into words but it is definitely there. And, our ladies and gentlemen, who are our ambassadors, are doing a great job of bringing this to life.
“Our philosophy is to treat all our guests with respect and make them feel special. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of our ladies and gentlemen and the role that they play in this respect.
“They are the ones who create unique and memorable experiences for our guests – the kind of experiences that keep them coming back. Our ladies and gentlemen help us in maintaining a reputation that attracts new guests and help us win awards.”
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The picturesque swimming pool overlooking the sea of Oman |
The hotel prides itself in keeping a database of guest choices and delighting them with the magic of personalised attention. Some of the famous stories include one of a couple who were keen on visiting Royal Opera House but had forgotten to pack a formal suit. Their wish was fulfilled when one of the gentlemen from the Beach Pavilion restaurant arranged for a suit from his own personal collection for the guest to wear for the evening.
The hotel has 250 spacious rooms and suites, every one of which has its own private balcony. It also offers meeting and banquet facilities for up to 1,000 guests, and has the largest ballroom in the Sultanate that regularly hosts the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra concerts.
A creative culinary team, technology butler, and a dedicated conference concierge are on hand to facilitate a seamless meeting.
Recreational facilities include five swimming pools, a well-appointed spa, a water sports centre, and a Tennis Village with four floodlit courts. Guests planning a visit in the coming year can also look forward to enjoy a leisurely time at the Six Senses Spa project, which is expected to open in 2013.
Gastronomic delights are an intricate part of the luxurious experience. Guests can choose from dining at Al Khiran Terrace, an all-day restaurant overlooking the sea of Oman, or enjoy a meal at the Beach Pavilion, a contemporary beach grill where you can dine under the stars on the beach.
China Mood features authentic Chinese cuisine and diners can look forward to being served by an acrobatic Chinese tea sommelier and have dishes prepared by a kitchen team who have been specially recruited from China. Guests can also relax with a cocktail and live entertainment at Al Maha Lounge or sip uniquely flavoured tea with a modern twist at the Atrium Tea Lounge.
Prices for a single night’s palatial experience package starts from a little more than $4,000, excluding taxes.