We’ve just returned from our second holiday at the Al Falaj hotel and we’re about to book a third. Why?
Let’s start with the simple things: delicious food (and so much of it), great rooms, comfortable beds, amazing gym, gorgeous swimming pool, always clean and tidy, and well located for exploring Muscat and the surroundings.
But… other hotels could claim the same. Let’s talk about the things are much harder to reproduce.
The culture is everywhere; there’s not a single member of staff who doesn’t greet you with a smile: not a ‘it’s my job’ smile but a smile that makes you feel like a friend. There was never a time at Al Falaj at which we felt like a customer – we always felt like guests in the true sense of the word. Think about that.
There are hotels in every city that are clean, comfortable and have plenty of amenities but, once you get past the lobby, you could be anywhere. They’re a repeated formula. At Al Falaj you feel like you’re in the best of Oman: the wonderful diversity of people, the hospitality, and the overriding sense of welcome that make the country what it is. At this hotel, there is no doubt about where you are.
That comes from culture. It comes from an attention to detail that’s been a part of the place for decades. How do I know this? Because the owner walks around; because he joined us for supper; because he cares. And his care and warmth is reflected in every minute with every member of staff.
…and that’s why we’re going back.
