By Jorge Granda 

If you are looking for a place in the city to relax and take a break, then the Doha Marriott Hotel may be just what you need. Whether you are in search of some five-star pampering at a spa or delight your palate with international dishes, the Doha Marriott Hotel surely has what you are looking for. We visit the hotel to discover the many wonders of one of the most iconic spots in town. 

INSIDE DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL

This month I decided to stay at the Doha Marriott Hotel for a well-deserved weekend staycation. Having lived in Qatar for over a decade, I have a soft spot for this hotel because it was the first hotel I visited in the country.

The building is thought to be the first five-star hotel in Qatar, but before it was called Gulf Hotel. The Doha Marriott Hotel comprises a total of 362 luxurious rooms and suites (252 non-smoking rooms), 190 standard rooms, 119 Executive Rooms, 51 Executive Suites and 2 Presidential Suites.

Apart from its amazing rooms, the Doha Marriott Hotel boasts five restaurants. It provides guests with a gastronomical feast featuring, Mediterranean, South East Asian, Mexican and Indian cuisines. The hotel also offers impressive panoramic views of the city and houses a nightclub, pool restaurant, beach and a spa.

THE ROOM

After a very easy and fast check-in, I went upstairs to look at my room. I am impressed by the view overlooking the pool, beach and the Corniche. After gazing out the window, I started checking-out the space. The room is not (structure- wise) as modern as many of the new hotels in the city, but it is still impeccable and tastefully decorated. The bed is soft and spacious, and the room features all the amenities you can find in any five-star hotel. The overall space is well-distributed.

DINING OPTIONS

THE VIEW

Before heading to the popular Street Food Doha, I stopped by The View, the small restaurant near the pool area. If the weather is nice, it is the perfect spot to have a beverage before going swimming or going for dinner.

STREET FOOD DOHA

Every Thursday night the hotel hosts the Street Food night. The concept is the only of its kind in Doha. All the restaurants in the ground floor merge to let guests enjoy a truly authentic culinary experience. The long corridor is crammed with faux market stalls from different countries.  You can enjoy typical food from the streets of India, South East Asia, Mexico among others. It’s an amazing feast mixed with great music and chaotic and loud, but fun atmosphere. What I love the most is its simplicity. Everything is served to you on paper plates and a plastic tray. Also, none of the stands have any elaborated or pretentious set ups. Here you will find anything from manakeesh to tacos and fish and chips, anything you can expect from a street vendor.

Day: Thursdays

Time: From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

Price: QR 335 per person including unlimited beverages/ QR 240 including soft drinks

URBAN BRUNCH

After having a great night’s sleep the next day I was exciting to try out their Urban Brunch. Another great concept the hotel has come up with to stay at their top of their game. The concept is similar to the Street Food night, but it is less casual and offers a different variety of dishes. Here you will also find many live cooking stations across the long corridor of the Restaurant Gallery. The quality of the food is terrific and the atmosphere is top-notch. It is really the perfect brunch to enjoy with a big group of friends. I particularly recommend the seafood dishes and the roasted chicken.

Day: Fridays

Time: From 12:30 noon till 4:30 p.m.

Price: QR 220 per person and QR 320 per person including unlimited beverages 

THE SPA

If you feel for a facial or a massage The Spa features relaxation areas, showers, steam areas, whirlpools and cold plunge. Massages, facials and other beauty treatments are available. The Spa also features a fully-equipped gym.

Staying at the Doha Marriott Hotel for the weekend is a wonderful experience. The hotel offers so many options for guests. Whether you are looking to relax by the pool or enjoy a vibrant night out, the Doha Marriott Hotel has it all. 

For more information about Doha Marriott Hotel, please call +974.4429.8888 or visit dohamarriott.com & dohmc.reservations@marriotthotels.com