Doha, a burgeoning Middle Eastern city with a glittering skyline, barely existed 30 years ago. Today, with oil money fueling the eye-popping expansion in Qatar and in the entire Gulf region, this destination is inching its way onto more and more American travelers’ bucket lists. Whether you’re there for a conference or a sporting event, or you’re stopping by on your way to Asia or even Africa, the venerable Four Seasons makes for a comfortable -- to say the least -- homebase. And it’s not as expensive as you might think.
When you consider the rates at other Four Seasons properties around the globe, (Budapest: $460 per night; New York: $750 per night; Paris: $1,300 per night -- all in September and October) the Doha property is a glorious, if indulgent, bargain. Here, over the same period, rooms start at $370 per night. Pair that with a flight on Qatar Airways, which gives passengers an upscale experience even in coach, and you can have a luxurious getaway for less than it would cost you to go to Europe or to other parts of Asia.
Guests can enjoy sun beds on the small beach, attentive service at the pool cabanas, and hydrotherapy pools and saunas. Stop by the property’s on-site Nobu restaurant, which debuted earlier in the year and caters to a mix of local Qataris, expats, and travelers in an oyster-shaped structure that seems to float on the surface of the Persian Gulf. Architect David Rockwell’s design allows for optimal sunset viewing and sake tasting at one of the two pearl-shaped bars. Of note: While the hotel offers incredible value, food and beverages can be expensive. Alcohol is especially pricy in Doha, where it’s illegal to drink or be drunk in public. Alcohol use is tolerated -- with restrictions -- for travelers and expats, but you can expect to pay upwards of $20 per drink.
Let these photos of The Four Seasons and the beautiful new Nobu tempt you further...
