Qatar: Flash hotels in Doha 8-10.05.2010

Whoever named Doha was either very optimistic or very untruthful (I prefer to think the former) as Doha means “place where there are beautiful flowers and large trees to provide shelter”.  At this stage, 99% of Doha is sandy, stony and dusty, with not a blade of grass in sight, much less a flower or even a small tree.  However, in the parts of Doha occupied by large hotels, water and money have made the desert bloom.  We were lucky to have Dan to show us some of Doha’s top hotels, much more opulent than anything I’ve ever come across in BrisVegas, or maybe I just don’t move in the right circles there.
Notable features of Doha hotels are vast expanses of marble, enormous and lavish chandeliers, manicured gardens with unusually-shaped but generally empty swimming pools, and the most luxurious ladies’ rooms I’ve ever seen in my life.

  
Doha Ritz Carlton.  Note trees, an unusual feature in Doha.


Doha Ritz Carlton lobby.  Note chandelier and marble floor. 


Doha Ritz Carlton.  The lift lobby has its own chandelier and marble floor.


Doha Ritz Carlton coffee lobby.  Chandelier variation and marble on the walls this time.


Doha Ritz Carlton camel stair ornament.  I’m rather fond of camels.


Doha Ritz Carlton pool.  There are even flowers and trees, but no swimmers.


Doha Sheraton, from the Corniche.


Doha Sheraton lobby.  This chandelier grows upwards from the floor.


Lobby of La Cigale Hotel, Doha.  One chandelier is not enough.  The large silver object is not a spaceship but a chair.

For the Four Seasons Hotel, please see http://jemamum.blogspot.com/2010/05/afternoon-tea-with-elias-23052010.html
For the Marriott Hotel, please see http://jemamum.blogspot.com/2010/05/swimming-at-marriot-doha-qatar-10052010.html