Jebel Sifah Resort in Oman

My idea of a perfect weekend after a real frenzied work week is to be at home with no plans to make and no responsibilities to meet beyond reclining on my bean bag with a favourite novel, catching up on television shows, or cooking a special meal for my family. This is far more rejuvenating to me than late night parties or mindless mall hopping. When I describe weekend plans to my colleagues and friends, I get skeptical or judgmental looks, puckered eyebrows that seem to say, You are in Oman, it is sheer madness to spend your weekend within the confines of the four walls of your house when nature’s bounty (or man’s excesses) are right there, waiting to be explored. But, I stand by my style of weekend indulgence. So when I received an invitation to spend the weekend in the Jebel Sifah Resort apartments, I procrastinated; not just once or twice, but umpteen times before saying yes. I did not want to miss out my ‘take it easy’ moments, but I finally agreed to go with my family and check it out. On a bright and breezy morning, I headed off with my daughter to Marina Bandar Al Rowdha to catch the water taxi that was to take us to Jebel Sifah Resort. One of the biggest attractions of the trip was that we could skip the traffic and instead go by sea to the resort. These water taxis provide a fast and comfortable commute for both guests planning to stay and for those looking for a scenic day-trip. The 45 minutes ride was interspersed with plenty of excitement — the spectacular views of the sea rocks and coastal cliffs; flocking birds creating amazing patterns in the sky; and of course, the cool salt-water breeze setting the vacation mood. On reaching Jebel Sifah Resort, we were warmly welcomed and taken to our very own sea-side apartment. Built around the Marina, these apartments that have been developed by Muriya, are available in one, two, and three bedrooms. Our flat was a spacious two bedroom with all the amenities of a fantastically furnished home from a washing machine to a fully outfitted kitchen with everything down to dishes and an espresso machine. I found different kinds of knives and cutters, not to forget a pizza cutter, in the cabinet, giving me confidence that I wouldn’t miss the lack of room service. The rooms were modern with an open kitchen, dining, and a huge living area. It was perfect for those on holiday with the whole family, and especially well-suited for someone like me who doesn’t like excessive hospitality, preferring privacy and quiet over the butler-service offered at many hotels. Overlooking the Marina walkway, the waters of the Arabian Sea, and the distant Hajar mountains, the balcony was my haven for the weekend. There I soaked into the calmness and forgot everything else around me. In short, it was like we had never left home...only better. I loved having the option to cook my own meals, stocking up at the small grocery shop a few steps away. I also took solace in the fact that if I didn’t feel to cook (which at the end of the day I didn’t), I could take a stroll to all the restaurants and cafes of the main Jebel Sifah complex. We had our meals at Al Sabla, which serves buffet breakfast and dinner, as well as an à-la-carte menu of international and local cuisines. If you are a seafood connoisseur, As Sammak Seafood Restaurant is close by, and The Breeze Lounge offers refreshing beverages with a relaxed, beach-town vibe. And for the more active types, there is no dearth of activities at the resort. At my daughter’s behest, I ended up in the Kids Zone play area outfitted with video games and other activities. It is perfectly located right next to the pool, a blessing for parents who want to soak up the sun or take a dip, while their kids play close by. There are plenty of other water activities as well from jet-skies to underwater snorkelling adventures to dolphin watching and fishing trips. My favourite was the new inflatable water park in the Marina, a veritable jungle gym of slides and swings, trampolines, high and low jumps, a bouncy bridge, a slippery balance beam, and monkey bars, all bobbing on the ocean waters. Not being too adventurous in water, my daughter settled for the simplest looking water slides, while I chose to take a lazy walk around the property to catch the final glimpses of the setting sun over the mountains. In the evening Jebel Sifah takes on a totally different air, with beautiful, romantic lighting perfect for a meandering walk in the chilly night air before bed. We spend our last morning enjoying a leisurely breakfast followed by a quick dip in the pool before packing up and hitting the road. We chose to take a car back home, and as we meandered through the mountainous terrain, we reminisced about our weekend, re-living every single moment of our stay at the resort. It had been the perfect place to spend the weekend in the company of loved ones. Totally recharged, I was ready for the frenzied work week once again Book a Home Away From Home Jebel Sifawy Boutique Hotel +968 2474 9111 sifawyhotel.com [email protected] Book a Boat or Car For water taxis (from Marina or Almouj Marina at The Wave) or car rental, call and book through Sifawy Boutique Hotel (+968 2474 9111). For water taxis, fishing trips, or dolphin watching, call Marrisa office (+968 9888 2822) Water Taxi Schedule (Thursday to Saturday, weather permitting) Marina Al Rowdha to Jebel Sifah 9am & 4pm Jebel Sifah to Marina 10am, 3pm, 5pm - [email protected]