Pampering in Oman

Beautiful view!

Relaxing at the pool.

My most recent trip was a relatively short one. We had a long weekend in June so I decided to explore a bit more of the Middle East. Oman seemed a good choice. The flight was a short one at about an hour and twenty minutes.

The objective of the trip was rest and relaxation at the Shangri-la Bar Al Jissah Resort & Spa. And it certainly delivered on the relaxation! At a five star level of service it more than took care of us. I can honestly say that I have never been more pampered at a resort than at the Shangri-la. Many other people from Aramco felt the same. I was able to share a taxi to and from the airport with folks that I know who all had the same idea in mind for the holiday weekend.

Another beautiful view.

View from our room.

What I saw of Oman was full of gorgeous scenery. The Arabian gulf sparkled a shimmering aqua blue on one side of the resort and dramatic mountains marched down to the water surrounding the resort.

The views were stunning but the hot and humid temperatures prevented too much exploring. That will have to wait for another time.

Pampering at its best!

Asian cuisine.

What can I say about the pampering? As we lounged by the pool the attendants thoughtfully bought a cooler full of cold water, juice, and, to our surprise, cool Evian facial water spray to refresh ourselves.

The food was fantastic as well with many restaurants to choose from. We decided to eat Asian one night and continental the second night.

And the piece de resistance was the Chi Spa. We had use of the spa facilities during our spa treatments and we were lovingly pampered.

I will definitely return to the Shangri-la in Oman. Must more to see and explore when the weather is more cooperative.

Travel Hubs

So, I thought that I would talk a little about traveling around Europe. Trains are absolutely the way to go. Here a few pictures of Paris Nord station.

The availability of trains going to all different parts of Europe is staggering. If the train dosen't serve an area then there are buses that do. It seems like there is no need for a car in most places. Better to have a bike as you can take it on the train. Bike are used everywhere. Especially in Amsterdam. . .

Ahhhh, Paris. . . .

So, it's been many years (11 to be exact) since I have been to Paris. Was not originally planning to visit again. But there is so much to see and do in Paris no matter how many times you visit (this will be my fourth time) it's never old or boring. A little sightseeing, a little shopping, a little strolling. Ahhhh, Paris!

I Know It's Cliché But I Had To Do It. . .

Belgian waffles on my last night in Belgium. . .

And our little friend was dressed for the day!

Mannekin Pis

Koln a.k.a Cologne

Gotta say, there's not much to see or do in this city other than the cathedral and shopping. And the cathedral is AMAZING!!!!

And the shopping is not so bad either. . . So, I spent a nice relaxing day and a half just exploring the old town area.