— 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.
Want to know what it’s like to experience one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world—Antarctica? We chat with the on-ground expedition team from Quark Expeditions to get you as close as possible to experiencing this icy marvel and the untouched beauty of the polar wilderness.
If you enjoy vibrant nightlife and unique dining experiences, Soho London should be at the top of your wishlist. These first-hand recommendations will ensure you get the most out of your London trip and how!
Securing Michelin-star tables is not everyone’s feat, especially in an urban metropolis like NYC, so we chat with Aman New York’s Concierge Team to know the failproof ways they secure tables at starred restaurants for their guests without breaking a sweat.
Shinta Mani Mustang’s design, featuring locally sourced materials, traditional Tibetan conch shells, and Sanskrit poems engraved on slate, celebrates animism and Mustang's unique culture in complete honesty.
From homemade pasta like Orecchiette to iconic cheeses like Burrata, Puglian food captures the essence of traditional Italian cooking while showcasing the unique flavours and ingredients that are primitive to the region.
Whether you're a thrill-seeker wanting to conquer the skies or a nature admirer wanting to experience Oman with a bird’s-eye view, the paragliding and microlighting experiences here promise an adventure like no other.
Family holidays spent basking in breathtaking destinations and luxuriating in star properties are the ultimate dream. However, there's a missing piece to the puzzle when it comes to crafting truly unforgettable family holidays.
From choosing the perfect wineries, to the best time to visit Burgundy and sharing expert advice on enhancing your wine experience, this is the ultimate cheatsheet for a wine-focused holiday wrapped in Italian charm.
From picking the perfect timing to navigating activities to suit everyone, planning a ski holiday can feel daunting for all the valid reasons that is why we’ve got only the experts to help you plan one that is straight out of your dreams in both form and functionality.
If you take your drinking experience seriously and only want to indulge in the finest then this is your handbook for where you can find the best tequila in Mexico and how to best relish it.
In an exclusive interview with Aman-i-Khas, we delve into the nuanced details of how travellers can embark on sustainable safaris while maximising their overall experience. Get tips on safe viewings, the best time to visit and other first-hand advice from Safari experts.
Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, this guide aims to elevate your dining experience beyond the typical tourist fare.
In this exclusive interview with Thibaud Epstein, Co-owner and Cruise Director of the Kudanil Explorer, we unravel the secrets that make Raja Ampat an extraordinary haven for everyone who loves ocean and exclusivity.
Executive Chef, Eric Tan at Mandarin Oriental Singapore takes us on an unassumed epicurean adventure through the bustling streets and hidden gems in Singapore, and you ought to discover it for yourself.
This feature unveils the sublime secrets of Rio de Janeiro through our conversation with a local—Anderson Azevedo, who is also the Chef Concierge at the iconic Copacabana Palace—and is the best first-hand guide you'll find on the internet.
Unlock the flavours of the East in the Pearl of the Orient with insights from Mandarin Oriental's Chef Jack Bent and Chef Richard Ekkebus on an extraordinary culinary journey.
Delving into her culinary adventures, Chef Toni Robertson, the Executive Chef and F&B Director at Mandarin Oriental, unveils her favourite cuisines and top eating destinations in New York City.
What exactly does a “Director of Romance” Do? Find all about it through our exclusive conversation with Paola Martinez from Las Ventanas Al Paraiso.
Plan a premier heli-skiing experience in untouched powder and exclusive alpine terrain, featuring expert-guided access to remote slopes, pristine runs, and luxury amenities. Through exclusive access to remote terrain and high-end amenities, Eleven offers an experience where adventure and luxury go hand in hand, making each journey unforgettable.