Originally Posted by
puchong
Thanks, DesertNomad and IAN-UK for your recommendations, very useful indeed.
Under 'normal circumstances' I would have jumped at a Muttrah hotel to absord the local flavour. Many years ago I visited Sanaa & Kuwait extensively and would love to explore an area such as Muttrah. However, I can get all IHG hotels on points and an advance purchase rate at the Sheraton (with complimentary breakfast and evening lounge access) is OMR 52 + tax at present. Hence I am inclined towards one of these.
Using a bus sounds attractive; can one take a Samsonite roller bag + a small computer bag into the bus? Also, how far is the bus stop from the Sheraton? Are the taxis at the airport amenable to negotiating prices or do they all stick to elevated prices at the airport as in Bahrain?
The Sheraton and the area it's in is depressing for an overnight visit: and spending time in the lounge doesn't count as local flavour
If you have the points, the IC is an excellent choice. Its relatively cheap in points but can be sky high for money (and remember tax puts almost 20% on the cash bill). The area's on the sea, lively with tons of cafes, eating places and shops.
Taxis from the airport are metred. Last month i paid OMR11 from the airport to the IC. Considerably less going back (use the local "uber" equivalent). The bus option is possible, but a bit of a hike with a bag to and from the the highway - but the weather's lovely right now, so you won't get too scorched on the walk.
As for restaurants, try one of the apps, look in tripadvisor or let the concierge do his thing