God is in the Details

Orna Ballout hops over to Four Seasons Doha and realises its the little things that go a long way...

hen I think back on my luxury two night escape at Four Seasons Doha, what mainly springs to my mind is the hotels careful attention to detail from the complimentary sunglasses cleaning offered on the beach to the thoughtful bookmark placed by housekeeping in my hardback which I carelessly tossed on to the bedroom floor its these small and simple touches which differentiate Four Seasons from a myriad of plush 5 star hotels. Its hard to miss the hotel which boasts a prime position in Dohas upmarket West Bay area, a stonesthrow away from City Centre. Its eye catching towering facade is topped with two intricate lattice work domes. When my friend and I check in on a humid Friday afternoon, were taken aback by the understated luxury of the hotels interior. A striking display of fresh flowers was first to catch my attention; during my stay, I noticed this
72 / SUMMER 2011

blooming marvellous display was changed daily to dazzle guests with an assortment of flowers imported from Holland. This floral touch was actually consistent throughout the whole hotel as I soon noticed a vast amount of pretty vases scattered around maintained by the hotels four florists. All the interiors scream luxury marble floors, bespoke sparkling chandeliers, unique furniture and an immense art collection by international

and local artists which I learnt amasses to a total of two million dollars. Dont miss (not as if youll be able to), The Doves of Peace, a striking artwork by Iraqi sculptor Ali Al Jabiri located in the lower ground lobby. This beautifully crafted piece consisting of bronze birds towering above a water feature is a real showstopper. After numerous art distractions, I eventually made it to the room. A huge comfy bed, enticing mini-bar, LOccitane toiletries and a balcony

GLAM

SUMMER ESCAPE SPECIAL

with an awesome view of the beach and Arabian Gulf ensured I was going to have a relaxing stay! Having built up an appetite, it was time for brunch at the hotels restaurant Brasserie on the Beach. Brunch has become somewhat of a weekly ritual in Doha; every Friday a group of friends usually head to a local hotel to stuff their faces from an all-you-can-eat buffet. As a Four Seasons first-timer, Id been looking forward to tasting this tradition for quite some time. Brunch at Brasserie on the Beach is served between 12-4 pm every Friday and the standard cost is QR 300 pp, however it varies on what drinks you choose to accompany your meal. Juice and water suited me just fine. The range of hot and cold dishes promises something for everyone think Lebanese Mezzah, Asian Specialties and Sushi Bar; its really got it all. Not to mention the cutest serving area for kids, allowing them to serve themselves with an array of different treats. After I could handle no more food, my next adventure was a trip to the hotels welcoming outdoors; a three-level grotto pool, 250m private beach all in the setting of lush landscaped gardens was the ideal setting to enjoy some sun, sea and sand. Cool wooden huts positioned around the pool provide guests with a perfect retreat to relax in comfort. As mentioned earlier, its the little

things that go a long way the complimentary sun glasses cleaning facility, the fresh yoghurt juice thats offered, and the ice-cooler stocked with water which is delivered to the sun lounger is an excellent touch. There are a variety of dining options at the hotel including the Pool Grill perfect for a beach side bite; Il Teatro offering a fine dining Italian experience; Apres Spa Cafe great for a healthy nibble after a workout; The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge good for Spanish tapas and drinks; Seasons Tea Lounge a chic setting for English afternoon tea; Arabica cool coffee bar serving global coffee and tea; and last but not least in-room dining which offers a variety of choice. A visit to The Spa and Wellness Centre is must. The luxury three-story Spa features 11 treatment rooms, Hydrotherapy and Fitness Centres. Do make sure you arrive for your desired treatment early to avail of the facilities such as sauna, ice room, steam room and Swiss showers. I opted for the Summer Breeze Spa Package running until Sep 15, this two hour 20 minute special packs in three treatments for QR 1,155, and is worth every penny. It starts off with an Organic Green Tea & Salt Scrub, which is really beneficial for the skin with its mineral rich and anti-oxidant properties.

After this, a soak in the Hydrotherapy bath is on the menu, Fire Element Oil is added to the water to hydrate your skin. I was a little bit baffled to see a panic button in the Hydrotherapy bath, however, my therapist advised me its there to use in the situation where one feels a little bit hot. Do not be afraid to use it or inform the therapist if you feel this way. Although the Hydrotherapy is great for the skin, the fusion of strong jets and hot water can be a bit overwhelming and cause you to feel light headed as I learnt firsthand! My near fainting episode was quickly healed with the final part of the treatment a Sodashi Signature Earth Massage. The therapist used calming, slow stroking movements to relieve all my tension the perfect ending. The hotel is currently running a special Family Getaway Package until September 5 two nights including breakfast costs QR 1600, and for a little privacy theres an option for a booking a second room at a 50% discount. All spa treatments booked with this offer come with a 25% discount. All in all, a summer staycation at Four Seasons Doha is well worth the money as it proves to be an opulent retreat, on your doorstep, offering the best fusion of sun, sand and spa. For more info visit fourseasons.com/doha
SUMMER 2011 / 73