The life I lead often means being on-the-go and working flat-out to meet deadlines. When it comes to the end of a busy event season, it’s time to take a well-needed break. I’m always on the go, lots of work and little play, so there are times when I exhale and say “Ok I need a break”. Perhaps a weekend getaway is what the doctor would suggest?
And so I started my search; something by the sea, somewhere calm, somewhere to recoup. A little oasis of serenity; a place to relax, unwind and switch off.
Having narrowed down my options, I decided upon Radisson Blu; a five-star beach front hotel in Sohar located in Al Batinah Region; a two-hour drive or 321km away from Muscat.
I arrived on a Thursday afternoon and was welcomed by a cheerful concierge equipped with cold towels and refreshments; the perfect relief after a long car journey.
I recall looking at the beautiful lobby and thinking to myself, “If this is the lobby, imagine the rooms!”. Then, as if by magic, I was guided to my room; sea-view, two-seater balcony area, the sounds of the ocean and a beautiful cascading shoreline. What more could I have asked for?
The rooms are spacious and comfy, coloured in beige and pale green; a haven of peacefulness & calm feng shui. So relaxing in fact, that I wanted to move in. May I extend my stay? Perhaps until forever?
Aside from the décor, there are other offerings to keep your attention. The weekend presented a variety of food themed nights in the restaurants and we decided upon the seafood night; a favourite choice of cuisine amongst my friends, fresh from the Omani sea and absolutely delicious.
During our stay we were able to experience lunch at Zafaran, which serves a wide selection of continental cuisine. We eagerly tried different dishes, from Arabic mezzeh to fresh seafood, salads to interesting desserts. The restaurant also offers a huge selection during their buffet. The Friday brunch, served between 12:00-4:00pm is a popular attraction and we can see why; plentiful, delicious foods for a very competitive price. Fridays have never been better spent!
Radisson Blu Sohar boasts three more restaurants, Amaranthai; a Thai speciality restaurant, Al Khaimah Rooftop; suitable for those who are looking for some Middle Eastern atmosphere which also serves shisha, and finally; Aqua Bar which is overlooks the pools with a lounge feel.
No relaxing staycation is complete without some essential pampering, and so, it was time for a massage. I booked in for a massage at Leopard Spa, a leisure and fitness facility and enjoyed a 60 minute Neck, Back & Shoulder session. It was as if a mountain of tension had been removed from my shoulders.
There are a total of eight types of massages to choose from which range from Thai to aromatherapy, detox to relaxation. The prices are very affordable and much more competitive than Muscat-based leading hotels. Spa guests are also able to make use of the amenities on offer, the Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, as well as the gym. All these services are also open to none in-house guests.
All in all, the trip fulfilled exactly what I was looking for. A getaway without the need to take a flight or hike, with beautiful surroundings and quality food, sights and experiences. My only regret? Not staying longer at the property. It was the ultimate chill-out destination.
If you need a short break to re-energize yourself, then I strongly recommend a weekend at Radisson Blu Sohar!
You may reach them on:
Instagram: @RadissonBluSohar
Facebook: www.facebook.com/radissonblusohar
Website: www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-sohar
Till we meet again, check us on #LifestyleWithHalima on Social Media
Photo Credits: Nawras Al Balushi
