THE HOTEL: A member of Millennium Hotels and Resorts, the new beachside Millennium Resort Mussanah, Oman, is a skilful blend of Arabian and Asian themes set on the Gulf of Oman. With 234 guest rooms and 74 furnished apartments designed for both business and leisure guests, it is a 45-minute drive from the Omani capital’s Muscat International Airport.
THE CHECK-IN: Late-afternoon check-in was swift in the elegantly minimalist lobby. The card key to the Superior Sea View room, plus a user number for the internet, were handed over, and the luggage delivered while a member of the front office staff was still explaining the room’s facilities.
THE ROOM: Stylishly furnished in neutral tones, overlooking the resort’s marina, the had a minibar, laptop safe, iron and ironing board, 37-inch TV, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. The bathroom provided a variety of toiletries and ample towels. There was a spacious working area with a large desk, phone and internet access. The hotel also has suites and an apartment building with studio, one- and two-bedroom duplex living.
THE BUSINESS: Meetings are catered to in the Mussanah Ballroom, for up to 262 delegates theatre-style, and three meetings rooms. The hotel has a business centre and operates a shuttle bus service to Muscat.
THE RESTAURANTS: There's all-day-dining at Mydan, which features an international buffet and live cooking from the Rotana grill cooking stations, while the Al Bahar is a themed a la carte restaurant, specialising in Middle Eastern and Far Eastern cuisine. The bars include The Deck and the Naseem Lounge.
THE VERDICT: Opened in late 2010, the Millennium is a work in progress, with comprehensive leisure facilities to be added over the next few months. They will include a health club, gym, spa, infinity swimming pool, tennis courts, and more food and beverage outlets. Even before these open, the hotel is
a fully functioning base for the business traveller and a haven from the bustle of Muscat.
THE DETAILS: Millennium Resort Mussanah, PO Box 82, Post Code 300, Sultanate of Oman. De luxe Garden View rooms start from OR57.9 (£92) per night; Superior Sea View rooms from OR 64.9 (£103); and executive suites from OR93.8 (£148). Rates include 17 per cent tax and breakfast. Tel: +00 968 268 71555;
see: www.millenniumhotels.com. COLIN ELLSON
