— Written primarily based on exclusive insights from Hristo Arnaudov, Pilot at Six Senses Zighy Bay
Imagine soaring high above Oman's breathtaking landscapes, feeling the wind in your hair and witnessing a bird-eye view of the stunning vistas that will leave you speechless. At Six Senses Zighy Bay, this dream becomes a reality with their exhilarating paragliding and microlighting experiences. We had the pleasure of speaking with Captain Hristo Arnaudov (Itso), a seasoned pilot with over 30 years of flying experience, to dive into the details of what makes these aerial adventures at Six Senses Zighy Bay so unforgettable.
PL: How do most guests react to their first glimpse of Zighy Bay while coming in on the glider?
Itso: Most of the guests I meet are genuinely excited and thrilled about the idea of paragliding. Although there are a few who start off a bit hesitant, the feedback I usually get after the flight is incredibly positive. It's truly gratifying to see their joy and enjoyment throughout the entire experience.
PL: Do you get a lot of guests who are initially too afraid, and what gets them over their fears?
Itso: Just before we take off, many people seem to be a bit nervous. But once we're in the air, it's a complete turnaround. They end up enjoying the experience, feeling the excitement of flying.
PL: When is the best Month/Season and time of the day to paraglide in Oman to experience the most stunning views and get ideal weather conditions?
Itso: Any season can be the best time to fly actually—it really depends on the conditions, especially the weather. For example, during February-March, which tends to be windy and rainy in some regions, it might not be the best time to fly. However, when the weather is clear, it becomes an ideal flying season. On the other side, summer brings super-hot weather, but the likelihood of rain is generally lower, making it a more consistent period for flying. We also take into account the wind direction; if it's coming from the back of the mountain, flying is definitely a no-go.
PL: What are some special memories or stories you have from experiences you've helped to create at Six Senses?
Itso: One fascinating aspect of flying is the chance to witness marine life from above. Turtles are a common sight, almost every time, and on some occasions, I have spotted whale sharks. I even had the privilege of seeing a dolphin during one flight. When the wind conditions are favourable, the view includes Smugglers Bay and a few old villages, providing a glimpse of local agriculture.
PL: Zighy Bay Also offers Hang Gliding and Microlight Flights. How do these differ from Paragliding?
Itso: With a microlight, there's certainly a greater likelihood of encountering marine life as we have the flexibility to go further and higher. Exploring areas like Dibba and Smugglers Bay becomes more accessible, unlike paragliding where our options are weather-dependent. The microlight allows us to soar over mountains and witness the stunning canyon landscapes. Flying over the reefs, we get a beautiful view of Zighy Bay on one side and Wadi on the other—which is a very nice sight to watch.
Want to take of experiencing this one-of-a-kind adventure above the Gulf of Oman? There is nothing we cannot make happen. Get umpteen benefits when you book your stay and adventures at Six Senses Zighy Bay with us. For more details, contact us.
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