Oman Archives — A TO ZA’ATAR

December 3, 2018 by cbrandtwright 0

Sense on the Edge: a unique Full Moon experience.

For our dinner at Six Senses Zighy Bay (read more about my full experience here), we were invited to Sense on the Edge, the property’s showstopper and fine dining venue on top of the hill overlooking the resort. The restaurant can only be visited via 4×4, so we arrived at the main lobby around 6:45 and were transported up the hill to make our reservation at 7:00 PM. The scene that greeted us was simply incredible, and the weather could not have been more perfect. The restaurant includes both indoor seating, a separate smoking area, and three terraces, such that there is plenty of privacy for all diners. We were first seated on the bottom level, next to the railing (where the below photo was taken), then moved to sit with the rest of our group after they arrived. With the help of small lights to properly read the menu,…

November 29, 2018 by cbrandtwright 0

Hotel Reviews, Oman

Six Senses Zighy Bay, private luxury in Oman.

There are only a few properties within a few hours radius of Dubai that I haven’t visited. Not a humble brag, more that with 12 years in the region, it’s a statement of fact. However, there are two Oman properties which have remained on my list — the Chedi and Six Senses Zighy Bay. Imagine my excitement when I was invited to a dine-around at Six Senses Zighy Bay. Not only would I finally get to check out the resort, but also most of the F&B outlets. We had lunch at the Summer House, breakfast at the Spice Market, and a few tapas at the Zighy Bar — all of which delivered. We also enjoyed a very special dinner at Sense on the Edge, but for that experience, I’ll post a separate review. For those who haven’t been to Zighy Bay, it’s about a two-hour drive from Dubai (stopping at the border at…

August 17, 2016 by annbenjamin 0

Oman

Dinner at Al Mawra: Atana Musandam.

With a small property usually comes a versatile restaurant and Al Mawra is no different. Although we tried and failed to give sundowners a chance at the Atana Khasab, looking at the menu, we were pleased to see plenty of options (for all palates) at the small on-site restaurant at the Atana Musandam. After selecting a bottle of mineral water, we ordered both the hot mezze and tuna tartare to start the meal. The mezze arrived in a small tagine (a nice touch) and was filled with traditional vegetarian and meat options. Nothing earth shattering here, but filling. The tuna tartare was a surprise, especially in the middle of nowhere Oman. While we both agreed the conceptualization of the dish was on point, we would have added more apple, a smaller cut of tuna and a much-needed dash of lemon to brighten the plate. The soft piece of bread (toast?) served…

Al Mawra Atana hotels Atana Musandam

August 15, 2016 by annbenjamin 0

Hotel Reviews, Oman

A rustic visit to Oman: Antana Musandam.

While I am more familiar with Muscat and Dibba, it was wonderful to explore a side of Oman I had never previously visited. Located in the Musandam (known for its stunning mountains and vistas), Atana Musandam is roughly 3 hours from Dubai (including a stop at the border). We decided to break up the trip by spending a night in Ras Al Khaimah (a tip I would recommend to anyone considering the journey). Once crossing the border, we had our cameras out to try and capture some of the stunning views of the ‘fjords’ of Oman. Even better? This is not a particularly well-traveled road. Depending on the time of year, you’ll have the coast-hugging motorway more or less to yourself. The climbs and switchbacks are nothing short of amazing. Although there is radio reception, be sure to plan for a good road trip mix to enhance the journey. Upon arrival…

December 6, 2015 by annbenjamin 0

Oman

The Chedi Muscat: Fine dining on the beach

It is no secret I have always wanted to stay at the Chedi Muscat. However, because I am fortunate enough to have a friend work (and share great rates) at the Al Bustan Palace, in this trip to Muscat, it was only for dinner that I was able to visit the Chedi and dine at The Beach Restaurant. Reservations? Made by my friend and necessary during high season and if you want to sit outside (which you totally do). (To be fair, given the design of the restaurant, almost every table is more or less outside). Ambiance? Chic beachside resort with a slight Asian twist. You can hear the waves peacefully in the background (and, as part of the flight path, you can also hear planes). Food? We opted for the tasting menu, and I think I’ll let the food speak for itself in the pictures below. The only missteps…