This month, FACT spent four days and three nights in the multi-award winning, five-star Mandarin Oriental, Doha, to experience it in all its splendour.

We had an opportunity to play tourist in our own backyard when we were invited by the prestigious Mandarin Oriental, Doha to spend a few days in this exquisite hotel.

Our Arrival

As soon as our feet touched the tarmac outside the Mandarin Oriental, Doha, we were greeted by friendly and attentive staff ready to assist us in any way possible. After a swift and hassle-free check-in, I soon found myself in my exclusive Club Studio Suite, appreciating what was to be my home base for the next few days.

The Mandarin Oriental, Doha is a five-star hotel in the centre of Msheireb Downtown Doha. We found the architecture and décor a masterful blend of chic and contemporary design with subtle touches of Qatari heritage. The hotel contains 117 rooms, 41 suites, 91 serviced apartments, 10 exceptional dining spots, meeting facilities, event venues and an award-winning spa.

The Rooms

With four categories of rooms to select from: Superior, Deluxe, Premier and Club Deluxe, along with eight suite categories comprised of: Club Studio, Studio, Junior, Deluxe, Premier, Panoramic, Baraha View Suite and the Royal Suite, there is accommodation to suit all guests’ needs and desires. My Club Studio Suite housed many beautiful features and decorative elements. These included the design incorporated into the curved gilt ceiling relief, the Qatari heritage-themed carpets, the eye-catching mosaic tiling and many other captivating details.

Staying in this room also granted me access to the MO Club Lounge, an experience exclusive to Club Deluxe Room and Club Studio Suite patrons that comes with many benefits, including personalised service, privileged dining and private amenities.

Fortunate enough to be given a tour of the two-bedroom Royal Suite on the top floor, we saw how the rich and famous experience the Mandarin Oriental, Doha. This exclusive accommodation features a private entrance, an open-air courtyard with reflecting pools and a private plunge pool. From this unique vantage point, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and a bird’s-eye view of Barahat Msheireb town square.

Fine Dining

Throughout our stay, we had the privilege of dining at some of the outstanding culinary locations within the hotel.

Mosaic

Breakfast at Mosaic proved to be a delightful culinary occasion. This venue provides a Silk Route dining experience incorporating flavours and cuisines from Asia, the Middle East and Europe, all prepared at its nine live cooking stations. We sampled an array of sumptuous dishes throughout the meal, all freshly prepared in front of us. We particularly enjoyed the variety of Asian-style, wok-fried dishes.

IZU

We were cordially invited for lunch at IZU to experience its recently launched menu. Showcasing all the flavours of French Mediterranean cuisine, along with dishes inspired by the chef’s travels to England, Spain and the Middle East, we felt truly spoilt by the time the dining was done. With indoor and outdoor seating areas, along with the mezzanine floor offering an even more refined experience, this venue is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of restaurant connoisseurs.

Liang

Lunchtime at Liang proved to be another appetising affair at the hotel, this time with a distinct Chinese flavour. The venue offers superb service and an authentic Oriental dining experience. Along with the relaxed yet upmarket atmosphere, the meals on offer were nothing less than delicious. We so enjoyed the classically prepared dim sum, with its fresh ingredients, that we had to order several helpings.

Mandarin Cake Shop

One of our favourite spaces in the hotel proved to be the Mandarin Cake Shop. This quaint venue specialises in all things sweet, producing a range of cakes, artisan chocolates and delicious pastries. Perfect for a quick refreshment and bite to eat, we can honestly say we have never tasted better macaroons anywhere.

Spa & Wellness

During our stay at Mandarin Oriental, Doha, we felt privileged to experience the hotel’s award-winning, fivestar spa. Spread over 3,030sq/m, this high-end facility includes nine spacious treatment rooms, two VIP suites, an exclusive couples’ suite, extensive heat and water facilities and the hotel’s first-class Fitness and Wellness Centre. I was delighted to try the hotel’s signature Inner Strength massage. This nurturing treatment uses a blend of aromatherapy and healing massage techniques to ease physical tension and emotional anxiety. Whatever the intention, the result was a truly relaxing and energising experience.

Homeward Bound

All too soon, it was time to return home but after a truly indulgent break, we left feeling very spoiled and fully rejuvenated. From the luxurious accommodations to the delectable dining and spa experiences, we could not have asked for more and we’d thoroughly recommend a visit if you’re looking for a wonderful pampering experience right here in Doha.

GO: CALL 4008 8888 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.