The Chedi’s central location in Muscat might lead prospective guests to miss its charms. In fact the hotel is hidden in a vast private estate, with mountains to one side, and the shining blue Gulf of Oman to the other. The Chedi has the privacy of a desert palace, while being perfect for visitors to the city.
Arrival at The Chedi is simplicity itself. As two women together, my friend and I wanted a few days of escape and pampering, and The Chedi did not disappoint. At reception we were assigned a hotel manager to personally see to all our needs. We were booked to share the Chedi Club Suite. These accommodations are the kind of luxury option honeymooners dream of, superbly decorated, with easy access to the hotel’s private beach.
We made a beeline to cool off in the hotel’s main pool, an infinity design, with crystal-clear waters that seemed to meet the sea, surrounded by gracious palm trees. The pool’s design reflected The Chedi’s architecture – storybook temple meets Omani mudbrick. It’s a unique and wonderfully Zen look. In fact our whole stay at the hotel had that Zen-like feel to it.
An expert massage is a must after travel. We experienced the Chedi Jade at the SPA. This is a synchronised massage whereby two massage therapists work in unison to stimulate and relax regions of the body in a coordinated pattern and was a superbly relaxing experience. The Chedi’s Balinese Spa is quite unique and offers a vast variety of options.
Our first day was completed with a meal at The Chedi’s seaside restaurant. King prawns were in season, so we could not refuse the chef’s special dish, prepared with delicious spices and accompanied by a lush potato dish. Of course you expect excellent food at this class of hotel, but this was truly delicious.
There’s nothing like waking up to the sea, and the chance to swim in gentle waves while the sun is still cool in the morning. After breakfast back in our suite, we wanted a more high-energy experience. The hotel gym is fully equipped, including a suite of professional Pilates machines for exercising those essential core muscles. Soft lighting and well placed wooden dividers allow a large modern gym to have a private atmosphere.
The standout quality of The Chedi must be the incredible staff. Wherever we were on the grounds, there was always a staff member there to attend to any need we had. Relaxing at the hotel’s beachside pool, we found that our water glasses were constantly refreshed with lemon mint water. There was barely ever a need to ask for anything at The Chedi, and anything we requested was brought immediately.
The Chedi’s central location in Muscat provides a whole host of tourist opportunities, far more than we could take in during our short stay. The Sultan Quobos Grand Mosque, The National Museum of Oman and the Royal Opera House Muscat sit aside excellent modern shopping malls, with the 16th century Portuguese fortifications a visible reminder of the city’s history.
The Chedi is a must stay for visitors to Muscat looking for perfect luxury. It possesses a truly relaxing atmosphere, and top-quality service, that combine to create an immaculate hotel experience.
The Details
The Chedi Muscat, North Ghubra 32, Way No. 3215, Street No. 46, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
Tel: +(968) 24 52 44 00 / Reservations +(968) 24 52 44 01
Website: www.ghmhotels.com
Email: reservation@chedimuscat.com
Located on a beautiful beachfront location and close to Muscat’s business district and main tourist attractions. Seeb International Airport is just a short 15-minute drive.
Type of Hotel: 5-Star Luxury Hotel
Number of Rooms: 158 rooms and suites (120 rooms and 38 suites) including complimentary Wi-Fi
Insider Tip: Muscat is a port city, so follow the seafood seasons to experience the best dishes at The Chedi’s six restaurants.
Price Band: High
Reviewer’s Rating: 10/10
Author Bio:
Liz Tecirli is a freelance travel writer specialising in adventure travel, extreme sports and luxury breaks
Photographs courtesy of The Chedi Muscat
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