Laura Morris discovered the perfect location for a mini vacay in the heart of the city.

Fairly new to the Doha hotel scene and working hard to chisel itself into the calendar of every socialite in the city, Le Méridien City Center, Doha is a welcome addition to the ‘staycation’ market. The name is a reference to the coordinate lines that span the globe and affirms the brand’s international focus. You’ll soon spot the location coordinates subtlety in and around the hotel: N°25 32’ E 51° 53’.

Our first impressions are what those of us living in Doha have come to expect from a five-star establishment – glamorously elegant, grand and meticulously clean. But this lobby has cleverly curated stylish art pieces that elevate the overall look. Its close proximity to the city centre and easy access to many local amenities mean Le Méridien is situated perfectly, the only problem is, you won’t want to leave the hotel!

The stylish, simple hotel room provides the perfect accommodation for a weekend getaway. The space is generously proportioned, offering a sense of openness and tranquillity, and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that frame captivating views of the city below. The focal point is a sumptuous bed positioned to take full advantage of the Doha city skyline. The décor is tastefully understated, creating a soothing atmosphere. A large bed, adorned with oversized pillows invites you to sink in and unwind. Thoughtfully well equipped, this room includes everything you might need for a relaxing stay. Notably, Le Méridien embraces an eco-conscious approach, evident in the use of refillable coffee pods and toiletries, making it a destination that’s not only stylish but also environmentally mindful.

DESTINATION EATERIES

Café Rouge
This café, located on the ground floor, serves sweet and savoury bites: bagels, juices, coffees and cakes. Our choice today? Afternoon tea! We give our coffee orders and tuck in to the range of delights placed before us. The perfectly presented pastries that we sample would not be out of place in even the finest of French patisseries. Touches of gold leaf lift the delicacies to the next level of opulence. Everyone knows that no afternoon tea would be complete without the addition of freshly baked scones, don’t they? Café Rouge certainly share my enthusiasm for this indulgence. Included are some miniature scones, served with generous portions of jam and clotted cream.
Attached to the café is Bar Rouge, an intimate setting of refinement and sophistication. This bar serves as the stage for a captivating array of masterclasses and themed events, featuring esteemed experts who share their knowledge and passion with willing participants.

La Gourmandise
Here in Doha, you have to do something a little different to stand out from the crowd in the hotel breakfast market and this place does! With dishes to suit every style from around the globe, including a vast selection of hot dishes, cold cuts and fresh fruits, it boasts enough variation to keep every guest satisfied, but it’s the extra touches that make this an event and not your average breakfast buffet! Where it’s usual to find some honey of course, La Gourmandise boasts six kinds, this is also true of the butter selection. Cranberry butter, whipped and spreadable, is a new and delightful addition to my freshly toasted sourdough slice, but I could have opted for cinnamon, date or even white chocolate butter! Everything on offer is superbly fresh and presented impeccably. Waiters personally deliver a ‘Bite of the day’.
A table to the left of the main buffet area offers a selection of juices and cold drinks. My attention is drawn to the basket of ‘eye-openers’, a fruity boost shot, designed to jolt your senses awake with a vibrant burst of flavour. Once you have gathered your breakfast choices, you can gaze out across the city. La Gourmandise’s vantage point offers a panoramic view that is captivating, a bustling cityscape in motion.

Caza
Transport yourself to the heart of Morocco at Caza, with the Maghreb Moroccan feast, an enchanting culinary experience offered every Friday. Dining as the sun gracefully sets, offers a truly authentic ambiance. The dishes served here are not only exquisitely presented but also meticulously garnished to enhance both presentation and flavour. The feast commences with a tantalising cold mezze plate, each item bursting with distinct flavours. This delightful spread is accompanied by warm bread and an array of traditional dips. The pièce de résistance is the Lamb Tajine, a masterpiece of soft, melt-in-your-mouth meat that effortlessly falls off the bone. Served with warm bread, to help savour every last drop of the rich, flavourful sauce.
The finale is a cherished tea ritual, coupled with the delicate Arabic sweet selection. Presented on a silver plate, this age-old tradition is nothing short of spectacular. The tea is poured with the utmost reverence, served piping hot and steeped in the customs of Morocco. Moroccan tea leaves are boiled before the addition of sugar, ensuring a perfect blend of flavours. To top it off, they graciously leave the teapot in your care, encouraging you to indulge in a second helping, which of course, we do! It’s a fitting conclusion to an exquisite Moroccan feast.

In room breakfast
Having heard the hype about the in-room breakfast experience, we are highly anticipating its arrival, and it is nothing short of exceptional. Our order, thoughtfully taken the previous day, arrives promptly as promised, setting the tone for a seamless and delightful meal. As the trolley is wheeled into our room, we are greeted by a display of artistry, a vibrant feast. The menu was vast, featuring sumptuous fresh raspberry waffles drizzled with warm syrup, a vibrant fruit platter bursting with colour and an exquisite combination of caviar on toast.
The star dish, Eggs Royale served on a large slice of sourdough bread, who could resist? To wash it all down, we enjoy fresh orange juice and a perfectly brewed coffee. Every bite is a harmonious blend of flavours, and the meticulous presentation only adds to the overall sensory delight, making our morning truly extraordinary.

HOTEL FACILITIES

Outside Pool & L’apero
L’apero: a cosy pool area with a refreshment bar that sits between the inside and outside spaces. Large canopies provide much desired shaded areas over both the pool and the central bubbling Jacuzzi. A selection of refreshing drinks served alongside chilled beats sets the tone for relaxation. Attentive staff are on hand to help with your every desire. Anyone that’s been in Doha during the summer months will know the benefit of regular deliveries of cool towels to beat the heat! Dappled sunlight hits the pool from around 12pm and maintains its blessings until late afternoon. A perfect place for an afternoon snooze!

Spa
Would any staycation experience be complete without a stop by at the hotel spa? For me, an indulgent treatment and a chance to really unwind is the cherry on top of a weekend trip. From the moment I step inside, the space envelopes me in a soothing embrace, with the fragrant notes of lemongrass oil elevating the environment to a new level of comfort and warmth. My hour of total bliss begins with an aromatherapy massage which is a revelation, my therapist’s hands as soft and supple as the fragrant rose and eucalyptus leaves cradled in a bamboo bowl beneath my face. Leah, the Balinese masseuse, works her magic, and I emerge from the treatment room feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated. Beyond the spa, on the 43rd floor, the indoor pool boasts uninterrupted views of the corniche: all the way from Doha Port right round to West Bay and everything in between. We soon find ourselves relaxing into the reclined seats just looking out and watching the world go by.

Final Thoughts
What truly unites each corner of this remarkable hotel is the unwavering pride exuded by the entire team, a pride that resonates in every service they deliver. Everyone we have the pleasure of speaking to shares a genuine enthusiasm for their roles. This establishment has unquestionably earned its place as a coveted destination hotel. With its current offerings and enticing lineup of future events, it continues to expand its horizons. This luxury destination in the heart of Doha promises a captivating array of experiences that are sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of countless residents and tourists, beckoning them to indulge in the extraordinary. ✤

GO: CALL 4041 3333 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.