THE ISLAND ESCAPADE

WITH THE NEWS ALL OVER TOWN THAT DOHA HAS ITS VERY OWN VERSION OF AN ISLAND ESCAPE, NOTHING INTRIGUED FACT’S ANUSHAY TAIMUR KHAN MORE THAN A QUICK GETAWAY THAT DIDN’T ACTUALLY INVOLVE GOING TO THE AIRPORT. THIS MONTH’S STAYCATION TAKES PLACE AT THE LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE THAT WE ALL KNOW AND LOVE AS BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA…

Banana Island has its reputation around Doha as one of the best luxury resorts in the city. With high expectations and a heavier backpack, I set off to experience my Banana journey. The minute I arrived at the reception on the corniche, I knew exactly why this place gas rave reviews. I was treated like royalty as my luggage was taken and I was given a room within 10 minutes. The reception was a trailer of the beauty that the Island was and I was already relaxing for my mini escape from busy Doha life.

We were escorted to our boat, which was nothing less than a business class trip, and reached the Island within 30 minutes. We were received with a man playing the bongos and I just know that this is the way I want to be welcomed everywhere in life! The grandeur reception of the hotel made me stop for a minute and take everything in; clear blue water reflected the warm sun of the pleasant Doha weather, welcoming staff was ready to receive us and finally, within the first 10 minutes, I was escorted to my sea view room.

My bedroom was a story of its own. Giving a very modern yet cultural look, the bathroom space was enough to have a mini party in. I had all my accessories available, including a blow dryer I had conveniently forgotten and the basic necessities already stacked there. My room had a small seating arrangement on the right and a tub (YES, A TUB!) on the left side, right next to the window. I believe it was placed perfectly so you can draw yourself a bath and enjoy the beautiful views of the sea. A porch welcomed me for my sunsets on the island with a light breeze and I cannot begin to tell you how serene the entire setting was.

Upon my request, the room was situated right in front of the children’s play area so, we took a dive right into the cool water. The entire area was designated to families, making Banana Island the ideal escape for the weekend. The area wasn’t too crowded and I took my sweet time for a much-needed tan. Shortly after, we were welcomed at the Q Lounge for lunch which was right next to the pool. Some warm food by the poolside in the magical weather – who can say no to that? It was a pretty decent way to begin the week if you ask me. Q Lounge is normally popular for their biryani; however, I chose to play it safe and settled for a club sandwich, which was delightful. After dipping my feet in the warm pool for a while and enjoying the picturesque beauty that Doha is, I headed for the Moroccan Hammam.

One of the best things about Banana Island is the way they spoil you. I was there to completely become another version of Garfield the cat and, they made sure they delivered. I called myself a cart and was transported to the hammam immediately, where I was welcomed with tea, given my robe and asked to wait for someone to get me for my appointment. Right on the clock, I was received and the next one hour was a tale of 60 minutes in heaven for me. As this was my first experience at a hammam, I believe the benchmark has been set really high. A series of scrubs, oil for my hair and facial later, I sat in the sauna and exfoliated all the dead skin. Quite frankly, I could feel the difference in my skin and it was absolutely smooth. If you’re planning a day at the resort, I would highly recommend spoiling yourself with a Moroccan Hammam treatment.

There were a lot of different activities around the Island which kept me busy; I got some time to catch a movie at the cosy theatre followed by some delicious Ouzi at Al Nahham. With the seating giving you a luxurious view of the skyline, Al Nahham is an experience you definitely need to be a part of. Since Banana Island has restaurants in all price ranges, Al Nahham can be found in the fine dining section. So, if you’re celebrating a special night, dine with a view to remember.

Back in my room, I set up some light music as I enjoyed the spectacular winds of Doha. My comfortable bed made sure I had a good night’s sleep as I was ready to dine like a Queen for breakfast. Azraq is truly an event set for royals. From their spectacular buffet for breakfast to dining outdoors, near the beach, I could not have asked for a better morning. I got my eggs made, fetched myself some fresh juice and enjoyed the freshly baked chocolate croissants. Azraq is definitely one of the reasons I will be coming back to Banana Island for a quick breakfast and dip in the water.

Soon after this, the lazy in me went for another round of sunbathing on the private beach and took some Baliinspired pictures on the water swing. Truly, Banana Island lived up to the beauty that everyone promises it to be. It is a secluded island which is the ideal getaway from the Doha bustle. With options in dining that fit any budget and entertainment including a bowling alley, a kid’s corner, and general water activities, you can spend days over here without needing to actually leave Doha. I enjoyed my last meal, which was a serving fit for two, and we simply sat through the silent breeze of the island. Will I be coming back? With the various packages they’re offering, of course, I will! Who doesn’t want a weekend of pampering in a sweet slice of bliss just moments from the city? ✤


GO: CALL 4040 5050 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.