THE NEWLY-LAUNCHED JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTRE DOHA HAS BEEN ON OUR RADAR SINCE ITS OPENING AND FACT’S ANUSHAY TAIMUR KHAN JUST WANTED TO TRY IT OUT AND SEE WHAT NEW THINGS THEY WERE OFFERING AT THIS PROPERTY…

When I got the chance to check out JW Marriott Marquis City Centre Doha, I wasn’t going to say no. I had recently had one of the best Chinese gastronomical experiences at the Shanghai Club brunch, which resulted in one of the most romantic sunsets that I have experienced so, naturally, curiosity got the best of this deal and I packed my bag for a quick staycation.

The busy roads of Doha have kept this property hidden in the bustle of City Centre. The journey of JW starts right at the door as the valet helps and ushers you to the reception, taking your luggage and greeting you with the warmest of wishes. After a swift check in and confirmations for all my reservations, I went upstairs and swiped to experience the deluxe journey that was booked for the night.

A comfortable, huge room, overlooking the buildings in West Bay welcomed me with a washed-gold and white theme. Since I had checked in late, the hotel had accommodated all my booking requirements accordingly and I got dressed to check out my new favourite Shanghai Club at night. The breathtaking view at the restaurant welcomed me as I saw the entire city sparkle with diamond-like stars. Watching the skyline from this angle was a treat of its own and the food at the restaurant exceeded expectations. If I held high regards for Chef Ooi Kar Kim, after the meal that we were served, my partner hugged him because this experience truly was one of a kind. From the newly-introduced duck handbag, which came in crust shaped like an actual handbag and glazed with honey and sesame, to the chilli lobster dumpling, and the slow-cooked, nectarous beef short ribs seasoned to perfection, the unique salt bowl zesty chicken, and the star of the night, the grouper with tantalising Sichuan sauce; the night was an absolute delight. Since it was a Thursday night, the music from the bar just added to the flavour of the evening.

The hotel is in the ideal location, making all the tourist spots within 10 minutes away. With a gym and swimming pool to keep you on your toes and not excuse yourself for a day with the fitness routine, you’re bound to find yourself with something to do at all times.

I booked myself a one-hour massage at the Quan Spa and loved the fact that everything was intertwined; from their philosophy to their music and décor. Taking inspiration from ‘spring water’, the music and ambience of the entire spa are in harmony. The masseuse takes you to your treatment room where you are given four choices of oils to choose from after which, the next hour was nothing short of bliss.

For me, this was an ideal start to a Friday. I got fresh with the massage, headed to the brunch at Sridan and enjoyed it with my entire family. The tender malai boti, vegetable sushi and their virgin margarita in shot glasses was everything that I needed to get the weekend vibes in full swing. The dessert options kept me and my daughter busy through most of the brunch and more than one person experienced the sugar high that particular day (not saying who!).

All in all, JW Marriott Marquis City Centre Doha is the way to go for anyone visiting Doha or wanting to have a staycation right in the middle of the city. Facilities are top-notch and every member of the family is catered to. ✤

GO: CALL 4429 5000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.