AN OASIS OF ELEGANCE: THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA Soaring 115 metres above Qatar’s sea and desert landscape, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is an impressive symbol of the nations emergence as a destination for travellers to The Middle East. The 374-room, five star resort fuses contemporary styling with classic Arabic and European design, creating a hotel with a promise of setting a new benchmark for luxury and sophistication in the region. Located on its own exclusive island resort in the prestigious West Bay Lagoon district, with views overlooking the waters of the Arabian Gulf, the beachfront resort is secluded, yet easily accessible. Just 20 minutes from the airport, the 80,000 square metre glass and chrome tower is a showplace structure. It’s sleek, uncluttered exterior leads to an interior with chic residential elegance. The formal, oasis-like grounds are accented with tiered, Arabic eight point star fountains, reflecting pools, hidden grottos, and clusters of date palms and flowering tropical shrubs. A 235-slip sailing marina, the adjacent Doha Golf Club, and a world of recreational facilities make The Ritz-Carlton, Doha stand out as a destination resort. The focal point of the diamond-shaped main lobby is a 7.5 metre Viennese chandelier whose 2,000 plus crystals illuminate an intricately patterned stone carpet floor. The chandelier hangs directly over a Moorish-inspired fountain in the lobby’s center. Richly textured 18th century tapestries, elaborate applications of gold and silver leaf and graceful arched doorways recall the splendour of royal palaces. Richly hued, Chippendale sofas and Regency chairs stand in colourful contrast to the crisp white walls and ceilings. Full-length windows frame the outdoor scenery of sun, sand and sea. Grand marble staircases lead from the lobby to the garden and pool area. To bring a sense of intimacy to the hotel’s interior, designer John David Edison of Toronto, Canada, has created individual and unique environments throughout the square framed corridors. Lined with more than 30 varieties of stone and Italian marble, the intricate corridors lead to areas with their own distinctive identity and “sense of place”. Guestrooms and suites at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha reflect the Middle Eastern appreciation for brightly hued colours and contemporary style. Furnishings, hand crafted in Spain and Italy, include sea blue armoires with inlays of yellow and gold leaf. Headboards are distinguished by rich gold leaf and shades of crimson red. Carpets are Kaleidoscopes of colour and patterns. Black and white calligraphy works of art hang on the walls. Balconies in each guest room offer panoramic views of either the water or the impressive West bay Lagoon. With 61 spacious suites, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is well suited to host dignitaries and extended families. Quilted velvet and silk wall coverings, furnishings of eclectic elegance, and finely appointed rooms put the accent on luxury. For guests selecting Club accommodations, reachable only by keyed elevator access, the level of service resembles a “hotel within a hotel”. A multilingual concierge, private lounge area, and five daily food and beverage presentations are featured. Dining Choices Guests seeking a new experience in dining will be spoilt for choice when they visit The Ritz-Carlton, Doha. Indoor and outdoor, French or Italian, sea view or sky view, there really is something for everyone. The Lagoon Casual dining in generous surroundings is brightened with natural sunshine and views of the turquoise blue waters of the Arabian Gulf. Even more opulent, the extravagant buffets offer a blend of Continental, Arabic and Far Eastern cuisines whilst the a la carte menu provides limitless choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A special children’s menu is also available. The Admiral’s Club The nautical theme of Admiral’s Club is evident in the décor. The striking design gives the impression that the building is floating over the water with an outstanding view overlooking the marina. The Admiral’s Club provides guests with a sophisticated bar and lounge experience in a club-like atmosphere offering an international selection of cocktails and fine wines. La Mer Situated atop the 23-storey building, the hotel’s opulent signature restaurant La Mer offers expansive views of the Arabian Gulf as the perfect backdrop to the extraordinary interior design and French seafood cuisine. Private dining rooms and the adjacent bar are also elegantly designed environments in which to relax and sample classical dining in its finest form. Porcini Handmade coloured glass mosaic tiles frame the open show kitchen, which sets the stage for a dramatic and unforgettable encounter with the finest Italian cuisine this side of the Mediterranean. Authentic flavours burst through the regional risottos, veal and beef entrees. The air is scented with signature home-baked garlic and fresh breads and dinner is completed by an extensive Italian dessert selection. Habanos A retreat into the sophistication of days gone by when the simplistic beauty of the perfect martini and a hand-rolled cigar were the signature of quality. Rich mahogany furnishings, low oversized sofas and easy chairs add an air of sophistication to this classic lounge. Located at lobby level, Habanos boasts a freestanding humidor stocked with premium cigars and a cellar of fine vintages. The menu has been specially chosen by the Chef to celebrate the traditions of relaxed surroundings, fine aged beverages, superb music and Havana cigars. Flamingos The poolside location of Flamingos with its panoramic sea views is the perfect backdrop for casual dining. An eclectic menu of light snacks, grills, salads and sandwiches to enjoy after a workout, or whilst relaxing at the pool. The Lobby Lounge Partake in The Ritz-Carlton’s signature traditional afternoon tea or simply enjoy a beverage and a light meal whilst experiencing the grandeur of the expansive lobby. Arabic warmth blended with Ritz-Carlton hospitality creates an ambience and abundance of style and comfort for local guests and visitors alike. A Splendid Spa In deference to Arabic tradition, the spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha includes separate facilities for men and women. Soothing shades of lavender make for an understated and relaxed environment to enjoy signature treatments from the world-renowned Spanish brand, Natura Bisse. An outdoor swimming pool, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi, indoor tennis and squash courts, state-of-the-art fitness equipment and a host of recreational opportunities are available. Meeting Space Over 3,000 square metres of meeting and function space make The Ritz-Carlton, Doha an ideal place for conferences and special events. Two ballrooms, six individual meeting rooms, a dedicated videoconferencing room, and extensive outdoor function areas are available.