Sun, sand and beach meet a luxurious stay. Fernanda Langhammer headed to Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail for two days of resort life.

When you enter the expansive area after the hotel’s entrance, it’s like stepping into a parallel world that offers a luxurious feel mixed with a resort-style destination. The Peacock Alley lounge welcomes you with indoor and outdoor seating displays offering incredible Arabian Gulf views, setting the tone for what to expect from a stay at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail. I can anticipate that it’s going to be something memorable.

Day 1

After a quick check-in, I was accompanied to my one-bedroom suite on the sixth floor, which was grander than I had expected. A massive living room with a dark wood floor, white and mirrored cupboards and a dining table with sandwiches, chocolates and dates, fresh juices and fruits welcomed me into the space. The area was completed with a white sofa, a big TV, a blue carpet and a marble coffee table with a beautiful flower bouquet – a special gift for me.

The automated curtains opened, and a breathtaking view of the hotel pool and beach was revealed in front of my eyes. The balcony was spacious, with lots of comfortable furniture to enjoy the view – I felt like I didn’t need much more for my stay. But I guess I needed a bed. Striped carpet in beige tones took me to the bedroom area, and it didn’t disappoint; I discovered a large king-size bed and separate changing space, followed by a marbled bathroom. Beauty amenities from Byredo and a super fluffy robe were all I needed for a sumptuous night in. However, a girl needs to eat, so I got ready for a meal at Scarpetta.

With an Italian-American menu, Scarpetta offers an array of comfort dishes. I went for a creamy polenta with fricassee of truffled mushroom. I grew up eating polenta, so every time I see it on a menu (not always available, even in Italian restaurants), I go for it and it was the best pick! Just like the name suggested, it was incredibly creamy with a cheesy touch that paired perfectly with the intense flavours of the sauce. It was beautiful, and I would go back there just for this dish. I also tried the Ravioli Cacio e Pepe with charred leeks and brown butter and the Gran Fritto Misto as I was craving fried seafood. Everything was delicious, but if you have the chance to visit Scarpetta, you must try the polenta. I returned to my room and after a warm shower, it was shut-eye time.

Day 2

The day was going to be busy. So, I had a filling breakfast at Bywater restaurant. The selection was wide, but my eyes went to the pastries section, where I spotted something I adore: Panettone. I did eat some fruits, yoghurt and an egg white omelette, but my black coffee was happily accompanied by this festive Italian cake.

Sun and Sand

After some resting time on the balcony, I headed to the Watersports Centre, where I was supposed to have a flow rider session (aka surfing) but decided to switch it to something more chilled and went kayaking, did some hydro-biking and stand-up paddle that ended up being great choices to enjoy the sea and have a perfect view of the resort. Afterwards, I went for a swim. Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is the only private beach in Lusail and I couldn’t miss the chance to dip in its clear waters.

Pampering Moment

After a quick shower, it was spa time. I headed to ESPA Life for a 90-minute Recharge Salt Stone ritual – a full-body massage that’s designed to leave you re-energised. After my welcome drink, which was made with rose water, passion fruit and chia seeds, Dema, my therapist, escorted me to my treatment room. The first step before the massage was to choose the oil to be used and Dema recommended that I shouldn’t choose the smell I liked most, but the one that felt stronger. I picked ESPA’s Restorative and Rebalance oil with lavender and sweet orange. At ESPA Life, the treatments begin with a mindful experience where the therapist says a few words to help you disconnect from the world outside and connect with yourself and the moment. The treatment was similar to a hot-stone massage, but instead of black rocks, she used round pink salt blocks. I have to confess that it was one of the most relaxing massages I’ve ever had. She worked in critical areas but in a gentle way. The salt boosted my energy, and I was ready to move on to my next ‘task’: lunch.

Lunch Break

The beautiful décor at SUSHISAMBA Doha puts you in the vibrant mood of its tri-cultural-inspired menu which brings dishes from Peru, Japan and Brazil. Wood panels mixed with orange and white accents create a lively atmosphere. The staff told me that at night, it looks even better. They also said that 70% of the SUSHISAMBA menu worldwide is the same, and the other 30% is adjusted to the market where the restaurant is located. I wanted to try a selection of different offerings and went for Shrimp Tempura Donburi, a rice bowl with assorted vegetables and shrimp tempura, Crispy Taquito with yellowtail fish (my favourite of them all), Samba Doha, rolls made with lobster cream in a bed of crispy rice, and Tuna Tataki, seared tuna slices. I ended the meal with Japanese Doughnut, fried fluffy balls accompanied by chocolate sauce and ice cream. I sat on the terrace, and I must say that Doha is perfect for enjoying a delicious meal al fresco at this time of the year.

Afternoon Extravaganza

And because eating was an important part of my staycation, I enjoyed a magnificent Afternoon Tea at Peacock Alley. During my visit, the resort partnered with the jewellery brand Swarovski to create a personalised tea set. My teal Swarovski box was filled with savoury and sweet bites, and my highlights go to the four cheese nachos served in a small ice cream cone and the Persian doughnut, a fluffy, warm ball with saffron flavour – delicious! If you are a tea enthusiast, you will be impressed with the more than 50 different types of tea from the organic brand Avantcha.

Night Life

Dinner was booked for 9pm and, after a day of eating, I was hoping to end my night on a lighter tone. To my surprise, The Highmore, located on the 11th floor, was having a Jazz night and it was more about good live music, snacks and drinks. Yay! All I needed to end my stay at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail in golden style. I chose a portion of nachos and guacamole and peanut butter popcorn (I love, love popcorn) and called it a night.

I had an early morning check-out, but I wished I could have stayed a bit longer. Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is a place that knows very well how to combine grand style with a feeling of home. The perfect mix between high-end destination and resort lifestyle where you don’t need to leave the hotel for anything, a way to forget the world that stayed behind when you entered the doors, and I absolutely loved that feeling. Looking forward to being back soon! ✤

GO: CALL 4456 5656 OR VISIT @WALDORFASTORIALUSAIL FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.