MEMORABLE MOMENTS

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE ESSENCE OF QATARI HOSPITALITY AND DISCOVER A CULTURED BLEND OF QATARI HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY DESIGN AT ALWADI HOTEL DOHA MGALLERY BY ACCORHOTELS.

The portfolio of MGallery Hotels are designed with the sole intention of creating unique experiences and encouraging guests to immerse themselves in adventure, history, culture, romance and nature. Each location has its own distinct identity and you will become part of its story.

Alwadi Hotel Doha overlooks the beautiful Souq Waqif which for centuries was the location for Bedouin to take their wool and animals to trade for daily necessities. As time passed the Souq started to become run down to the point where demolition was considered. Luckily, in 2004, it was decided to preserve this historical site so the entire market area has been renovated and restored according to the traditional Qatari architectural techniques. This inspired decision to regenerate means that this is probably the most authentic Souq in The Middle East and it provides not just a cultural experience but also a fascinating venue for shopping and dining.

It came as no surprise to me when I entered the hotel that it was a blend of traditional Qatari heritage and high end luxury. The décor throughout mirrors the shades and tones of the Souq and the surrounding areas. Filigree fretwork window and wall features, dark wood , creams and earthy tones combined with a variety of textures and fabrics merge and flow from public spaces into the expansive suites. Elegance and decadence in equal amounts. Upon arrival I was escorted to my Souq Suite which was bright and airy and afforded superb views of the neighbouring Souq. The terrace was vast and provided me with ample outside space should I wish to soak up the neighbourhood in solitude. Various shades of cream combined with dark wood and crisp white sheets reflect the essence of Qatari style. The room was comfortable and homely with an injection of sumptuousness in the form of Bose sound system and Nespresso machine. The bathroom was no exception with a decadent rectangular bathtub and vast shower. The finer details such as towel art and petals placed elegantly on the signature king size MyBed are the first step to making memories here at the Alwadi Hotel.

Dining at the hotel is a continuation of the theme of trade and empire. Le Colonial exemplifies the global links to the gulf through trade routes. The floor tiles are imprinted with the names of ports, the furnishing would not look out of place in a Colonial Mansion and the lighting features mimic old port containers. The feature wall adorned with a map showing trade routes is fabulous. Miniature barrels and crates house fresh fruit and juices. The staff encourages guests to enjoy a detoxifying ‘shot’ each morning before proceeding with their breakfast experience.

“ It came as no surprise to me when I entered the hotel that it was a blend of traditional Qatari heritage and high -nd luxury. The décor throughout mirrors the shades and tones of the Souq and the surrounding areas.”

The menu boasts a series of set breakfasts and bespoke international specialties. You may wish to embark on your day of business or leisure with a full Arabic, French or English Breakfast. Eggs Benedict is offered in 5 different forms. The ‘Hearty Me’ with avocado and grilled asparagus served on brown bread with citrus sauce allows you to indulge but not overly. The ‘Royal’ with smoked salmon so delicate that it literally melts in the mouth was a mouthful of indulgence. Traditional Qatari dishes such as Saj and Balaleet are offered alongside Pancakes, French Toast and Porridge. Le Colonial transforms breakfast into a dining experience beyond anything I have experienced before.

The restaurants at Alwadi literally flow seamlessly into one another through the connecting stairwell. La Sofra takes inspiration from the Ottoman and Turkish worlds. In modern Turkish language ‘sofra’ means a table prepared or set for eating a meal. This is reflected in the menu whereas the décor is more reminiscent of an Asian imperial dining room, once again reflecting colonial links. Intimate terraces can be accessed from the main restaurant. Cold Mezze including an impressive array of Hummus, Tabbouleh and Fattoush may tempt you alongside tantalising regional specialties such as Labneh Salad or Chicken Liver with pomegranate molasses. Ordering my main course was nothing short of a dilemma. Grilled meats and seafood can be enjoyed in the form of ‘Grand Platters’ ensuring diners sample a selection of the best seared morsels on offer. Stuffed Quails and Grilled Baby Chicken may tempt you away from the family style local lamb or the tagine with dried fruits and prunes. Genuinely a spectacular array of The Middle East’s most decadent dishes. Presentation was a revelation and more Michelin Star than traditional Persian. The selection of Hummus adorned with ‘jewels’ and garnishes exemplified this.

“ Le Colonial exemplifies the global links to the gulf through trade routes. The floor tiles are imprinted with the names of ports, the furnishing would not look out of place in a Colonial Mansion and the lighting features mimic old port containers.”

In addition to the terrace area and pool the hotel boasts a state-of-theart M|FIT gym and M|SPA. The ambience is traditional and serene and fragranced with Shifa Aromas. The treatments offered will no doubt enhance your sense of well-being and leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated just as the expertly delivered full body massage did for me. Whether you then choose to explore the surrounding cultural delights or cool off in the rooftop pool a visit to this particular spa will certainly allow for more unique memories.

The hotel isn’t just the perfect base for families or couples immersing themselves in culture but also for those wishing to mix business with pleasure. Thoughtful additions such as in room dining, delivered at an impressively high standard, are perfect after an exhausting day of meetings and dialogue and allow you to enjoy the features of the superbly equipped suites. Regardless of your motive or duration of your stay Alwadi will create a memorable story of your time in Doha. ✤