Ah hotels (or resorts). They’re often the largest expense a trip will carry; however, like anything else in life, there are times where sleeping is in order, and others where you should go big or go home. Urban areas such as New York City will have you walking from dusk until dawn, and little time will actually be spent in the hotel. Whereas, sometimes a hotel can be your ticket to an experience that will burn in your memory bank for a lifetime.
Ratings are based on location, from best to worst:
5) Ya only live once
4) Serious
3) Not too shabby
2) I’ve had better
1) What are ya, kidding me?
SOHAR
Radisson Blu Hotel
(Rating: Ya only live once)
Wanting to spice up my visa run, I booked into this Radisson Blu and was thoroughly impressed with the hotel, location and staff. Let's start with the location, the hotel is situated just 34 m from the water, resulting in a symphony of waves when the tide is coming in, beautiful stuff. Secondly, the beach spans nearly 14 kms allowing for some impressive views along the beachfront. While the beach is public, you get a glimpse inside the ways of Omanis, including the occasional bathing of Ferdinand (massive bulls) outside the hotel perimeter in the seawater, a remarkable sight to behold. The hotel and pool is well equipped for either singles, couples or families. For singles and couples, I can strongly recommend the Business Class Room (417 was ace). You get a lovely beach view and breakfast is inclusive, but the best part is you're granted an open bar for 2 hrs with top shelf beverages at the Aqua Bar. Unlimited adult beverages for the win! Additionally, you have nonstop access to complimentary water, coffee and tea at the lounge or cafe. Rooms are spacious and well appointed, with a comfortable bed, rain shower and bathtub. There's even USB connections for extra convenience. If this wasn't enough, the staff are professional and will do anything to make your stay extra special. Mr Raffi went above and beyond to make our visit worthy of a return by attending to our needs, and the friendly pool bartender, Rakesh, who somehow managed to always sport a smile while sweating bullets, catered to our drinking pool needs (like a boss) and even placed a chair in the pool to further our relaxation. You can also join the Radisson Rewards program before completing your reservation for a nice discount. Whether in the need of a relaxing staycation or a pit stop while transiting between the UAE and Oman, this Radisson Blu has got your back.
(Reviewed: Aug 2018)