THE PEOPLE. From the time I made the booking, I realised this was a place that focused on customer service. I was e-mailed by Hitesh Bista, the Asst Front Office Manager, about our room requirements - just as well, because the information had not come across fully from Central Reservations!
Arrangements for our collection from the airport went smoothly as did the check-in process - smiles everywhere - could not believe how friendly and warm everyone was, from the concierge to the reception staff.
We had booked 2 separate rooms but were upgraded to a suite - a great start! With a bowl of fruits and some flowers for relations who were celebrating their birthdays, just made the start of our stay here even better - just perfect. They even left in a cake in our suite as a surprise the following day! Both bedrooms had a large en-suite.
THE FOOD - Our breakfasts in the morning were always made sunnier by the smiles from Mr Jamshed or Mr Varghese (the restaurant Managers), Jincy the hostess and our lovely waitress, Agnes, who remembered what we liked and brought things over without us having to ask the following day. We were looked after so, so well....they were all extremely attentive, yet discreet and without being overbearing - definitely got used to it!!
Breakfast is a huge buffet, but can be complemented with specific orders - eg types of eggs or oatmeal/porridge, cooked at a separate counter within the restaurant...
Dinner (in the main restaurant) is an option between a buffet (large variety) or a choice from the "a la carte" menu. (We did not visit the beachside restaurant).
THE PLACE - The building, whilst possibly not new, looked absolutely great and I could not find fault with it or felt that it lacked anything. It glittered and sparkled with all the marble and chandeliers, lights, decorations etc. Our suite had a good modern feel to it - good decor and pictures and furniture characteristic of the country and yet in keeping with the modern decor.
Yes there are newer hotels around, but so what?? For me, it is the mix of people, place, food, ambience, scenery etc that makes CP Salalah the place to go to....
THE FACILITIES included outdoor swimming pools, Pool bar area, a beachside restaurant with a different theme every night, together with the usual loungers and sun shades etc typical of a beach resort. The main restaurant has a lovely long terrace overlooking the swimming pools & sea. There is also a squash court and spa building a short walk away at the other end of the car park. There is also a pub at the other end of the restaurant.
WHY COME HERE? Well, its all the S's for CP Salalah - service, sustenance, sun, sea, scenery & serenity !!