A few years from now, the Ritz-Carlton Doha will sit squarely in the middle of a brand-new Doha, wedged between a pair of Dubai-like luxury developments named Lusail and The Pearl. Until then, the hotel floats serenely on its own small pair of islands north of the city, a haven for movers and shakers passing through the region. The views from La Mer – the hotel’s flagship restaurant and consensus best in the city – include both the lunar landscape of the desert and the Doha skyline twinkling in the distance.
The tower contains 374 rooms (including 61 suites) decorated, like the hotel itself, in a fusion of Arabic and Continental styles best reflected in the gold-leaf and sea-blue color palette and the lobby’s centerpiece: a massive Viennese chandelier suspended above a Moorish-inspired fountain. The blend of styles continues in the hotel’s restaurants, which besides La Mer includes Porcini (Italian), La Dolce Vita! (a patisserie), The Lagoon (a sprawling buffet), and Habanos (a Cuban mojito-and-cigar bar).
The fitness center and spa are aimed at sportier types rather than spa fanatics, with an indoor Olympic-length swimming pool and indoor tennis courts that prove handy for avoiding heat stroke during the 108-degree dog days of summer. The outdoor pools are hidden within a grotto shielding them from the neighboring construction sites. Determined spa-goers will still find a full complement of treatments and the usual amenities, including saunas, steam rooms, and Roman-style baths.
In addition to the suties, 42 Club Level rooms occupy the highest floors and offer the best views in addition to the Club Lounge on the 23rd floor, where breakfast, a bar, and free WiFi await. Vacationers determined to unplug, however, should investigate the Ritz-Carlton’s new sister property on the south side of Doha, the Sharq Village & Spa. Designed as a throwback to traditional Qatari architecture, that 174-room resort channels the vibe of Doha’s souks rather than the Ritz-Carlton’s high international style.
Ritz-Carlton Doha, ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Doha, +974 484 8000; Sharq Village & Spa, ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/SharqVillage, +974 425 6666.
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