AMS enjoyed a relaxing, indulgent staycation in the heart of Doha.

On entering the lobby of Le Méridien City Center, Doha, we were greeted by a sophisticated blend of modern luxury and inviting warmth. The deep blue armchairs, with their plush velvet-like texture and sleek gold legs, created a stylish yet comfortable seating area, perfectly complemented by geometric glass-top tables. The surrounding walls featured vibrant artwork that injected a lively splash of colour, reflecting the dynamic spirit of Doha. The reception area was equally impressive, dominated by an elegant marble counter, with intricate grey and gold veining, and a golden wave-like light fixture that cast a soft, warm glow over the space. Rich wood panelling and textured walls added depth, seamlessly blending natural elements with contemporary design. Diana at the reception welcomed us with genuine warmth, ensuring a smooth check-in before personally escorting us to our suite.

We had the pleasure of staying in the Junior Suite, which offered a serene retreat with its spacious layout and floor-to-ceiling windows that provided breathtaking views of Doha’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf. The accommodation was tastefully decorated with modern furnishings, including a comfortable king-sized bed, a cosy seating area with a designer armchair and elegant wall art that added a touch of sophistication to the space.

Le Méridien City Center Doha boasts 353 elegant rooms, suites and residences, all offering stunning city and sea views. The hotel seamlessly blends business with lifestyle, featuring subtle cultural nuances in its design, such as wall art, designer carpets and artistic displays throughout. Guests in suites and clubrooms also enjoy exclusive access to a club lounge with an outdoor terrace.

An Indulgent Start

We began our stay with a sumptuous breakfast at La Gourmandise. The buffet spread was extensive, offering everything from eggs and waffles to fresh fruit, Arabic fare, cold cuts, cereals and an array of pastries. Among the offerings, the French toast stood out, its delicate balance of crisp edges and fluffy interior leaving a lasting impression. The pastries, more abundant than in typical hotel buffets, provided a delightful surprise with their variety and freshness.

We opted for Eggs Benedict, French toast and pancakes, each dish prepared with care and precision. Our waitress, Ketut, was attentive and ensured our dietary preferences were well accommodated. It was particularly reassuring to see that allergies were taken seriously, with clear labelling and thoughtful preparation evident throughout.

A Journey Into Relaxation

Our afternoon was spent in the serene surroundings of the spa, where we indulged in two treatments. The experience began with a warm welcome from Eny, our therapist from Indonesia, who guided us through a consultation form before offering a refreshing towel and a cup of jasmine tea with honey.

The mini facial was a highlight, using Phytomer products from Paris. The process was thorough yet relaxing, beginning with a refreshing spray and followed by a cleanse and tone with a soothing massage. A gentle scrub was then applied, leaving the skin feeling rejuvenated. Eny followed this with a serum and, while the mask was setting, she treated us to a calming head massage. The facial concluded with the application of eye cream and day cream, leaving our skin radiant and hydrated.

The hot stone massage, lasting a luxurious 90 minutes, was equally divine. The treatment started with a foot wash, setting the tone for what was to come. The stones, perfectly heated, melted away tension, leaving us in a state of complete relaxation. Eny’s expertise was evident throughout, ensuring that every knot and tight muscle was addressed with care and precision.

Poolside Bliss

Following the spa, we spent the remainder of the afternoon by the pool. The setting was ideal, with plenty of sunbeds and a good aspect for sun exposure, yet the surrounding buildings provided a welcome shield during the hottest part of the day. Theodore, the pool attendant, was exceptional, constantly on hand to cater to our needs. Our water glasses were never empty, and his attentiveness added a layer of comfort to our experience.

Culinary Delights At Café Rouge Terrace

Dining at Café Rouge Terrace was a standout experience during our visit. The evening began with a rich, velvety mushroom soup that set the tone for the meal. The depth of flavour in the soup was remarkable, with earthy mushrooms perfectly balanced by a creamy base. This was followed by a crisp, fresh salad that provided a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

For the main course, we opted for the chicken pizza, which arrived with a beautifully charred crust, topped with succulent pieces of chicken, fresh vegetables and just the right amount of melted cheese. The pizza was cooked to perfection, with each bite offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavours.

Dessert was a true indulgence. We shared a crème brûlée, which was flawlessly executed with a perfectly caramelised sugar top that cracked to reveal a smooth, vanilla-infused custard underneath. The strawberry cheesecake ice cream was a delightful end to the meal, combining the rich, tangy flavour of cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries, all in a creamy, cold dessert that was both decadent and refreshing.

Morning Exercise And Afternoon Indulgence

Our second day started with a much-needed visit to the gym on the 43rd floor, which boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a stunning view of the city. The indoor pool was an added bonus, providing a serene environment for a morning swim. The gym offered detox water and ice-cold towels, thoughtful touches that enhanced our workout experience.

Later, we enjoyed a delightful afternoon tea, which proved to be a culinary highlight of our stay. The selection of mocktails was refreshing, perfectly complementing the array of savoury bites that followed. The cucumber cream cheese sandwich, mozzarella pesto basil tomato sandwich, crab sandwich, smoked salmon wrap and pastrami sandwich were all beautifully presented and full of flavour.

The sweet offerings were equally impressive, with tiramisu, red velvet cake, carrot cake, Madeleine with cream, mango mousse and cheesecake providing a symphony of tastes. The scones, served with jam and clotted cream, were a nod to tradition, rounding off the experience with a touch of classic indulgence. The tea and coffee selection catered to all preferences, ensuring a perfect end to our stay.

A Retreat Worth Revisiting

Le Méridien City Center, Doha offered a perfect blend of comfort, luxury and attentive service. From the moment we arrived until our departure, every detail was thoughtfully considered, making our single night feel longer. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing escape or a convenient city retreat, this hotel provides an exceptional setting. ✤

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