Motaz Othman
ATM / Dubai
Islamic Tourism Media
Two weeks before ATM Dubai, I received a press release from Ms. Annique, the account manager in Gulf Reps, announcing the appointing of Mr. Mark Kirk as the new General Manager for Shangri–La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in Muscat.
I went through the press and visited the Resort website www.shangri-la.com/muscat. I was impressed with the overview photo for the Shangri-La Bar Al Jissah Resort (the photo is published with this article), I asked to meet Mr. Kirk and I met him in the Resort stand in Oman pavilion at ATM and asked him few questions:
First of all, let me congratulate you Mr. Kirk for this new and challenging position in Oman as General Manager for Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort, can you tell us about your experience in the Hotel industry.
Thanks. I started 30 years ago with The Dorchester Hotel London, moved to several Hotels in Scotland and in France and then to Asia. Before coming here I was the G.M for Shangri-La's Boracay Resort & Spa in Philippines.
Q: I have seen the overview photo for the Resort, it looks really huge, can you tell us something about the Resort.
A: Shangri-La's Al Jissah Resort & Spa opened in 2006, a 124 acre property facing deep turquoise, blue water of the Gulf of Oman, with the majestic mountains behind. The Resort is only 15 minutes away from the city of Muscat, and comprises of three Hotels, Al Waha, Al Bandar and Al Husn. With a total of 640 fully equipped luxury big rooms and suites facing the Sea with balconies, 20 fine restaurants, 6000 SQM of fantastic swimming pools and 250 meter " Lazy river", 600 meter of private beach and a spa village with 12 treatment villas. The Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah is fully integrated destination resort for both Leisure and Business Travelers with a vast offering for events, exhibitions, conferences and weddings.
Q: What about other services in the Resort.
A: Guests can also enjoy Tennis courts, our Health Club, a Dive center, Snorkeling, Sailing, wind surfing and also watching giant turtles laying their eggs. The Hotel offers baby-sitting and child care services. A city shuttle service to Muscat is available around the clock.
Q: What about the staff and the services in the Resort.
A: We are committed to delivering an excellent service and to ensure our guests are happy whilst staying in the resort.
Q: What would you like to say for your guests from the Arab region.
A: The resort is only few hours driving time from UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and the West region in Saudi Arabic, as for travelers coming through Muscat Airport, a shuttle bus service is available for Airport pickup.
I wish you Mr. Kirk a successful job and enjoyment stay in Oman, welcome back to the Arab region. |