After driving through the winding road while taking in views of the sea and mountains, one will finally go through the entrance to the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa in Muscat. When you pull your car up, the friendly staff immediately make you feel welcome. It's as if all your stress and worries have gone away. The lobby has traditional Omani-style decorations, including wooden chests with silver and gold designs around them.
The smells coming from the Bakhoor remind me of cedarwood and a mix of oils. Bakhoor smells come from burning these wooden chips that are natural or mixed with fragranced oils. Make sure to try some coffee and dates on the table near the reception desk, or sit and have a drink before going to your room.
CHI, The Spa is set inside some beautiful gardens, with pool fountains and trees spread around the area. When entering the spa, it immediately gives you a feeling of stress melting away. A mix of essential oils is in the air, with ceramic teacups and vases placed on the shelves. Sit down on the cozy blue chairs while waiting for your session. I was greeted by Kitty from Thailand, who has been working at the spa for six years. She took me to the Gompa room, where my 2 hours and 45 minutes relaxing retreat would take place.
First, it was time for the foot soak, followed by the salt and sugar body scrub with mandarin oil. My skin felt so fresh and soft after this treatment. Another treat was the deep foot massage, where I fell asleep and woke up with that confused feeling of wondering where I was. At this point, I was beyond relaxed. The final treatment included a facial. In addition to the creams placed on my face, Kitty tapped her fingers along my face, releasing my tension.
I didn't realize how much I needed to treat myself. After my session, I had some jasmine tea in the reception area. It has been a long time since I felt so refreshed and relaxed. My knots were gone in my upper back; my skin was soft and smooth and smelled like mandarin from the oil. I was rejuvenated and so grateful to take the time to pamper myself finally. The rest of the hotel amenities are also fabulous. The Bait Al Bahr restaurant has tables with views of the sea. Sit back and relax while listening to the waves and looking up at the stars.
