Luxury in Doha: Poolside Relaxation, Fine Dining, and Formula 1

Last week I had the privilege of exploring Doha in style, combining world-class Formula 1 excitement with luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and plenty of relaxation. Every aspect of the trip was arranged in conjunction with Discover Qatar, ensuring a seamless experience from the moment we landed.

Thursday 27th November – Arrival and First Impressions

My journey began with a smooth flight from Heathrow to Doha on Qatar Airways. From the comfort of the seats to the excellent onboard service and food, it was a perfect start to the trip. On arrival, I met a good friend and we took an Uber to the Radisson Blu, Doha.

The hotel immediately impressed with its warm, welcoming staff and streamlined check-in. My room was airy, spacious, and spotlessly clean, offering the perfect sanctuary after a day of travel. A short exploration of the hotel revealed a vibrant selection of bars and restaurants. Dinner at Ruby Wu, the hotel’s Chinese restaurant, exceeded expectations with beautifully presented dishes and authentic flavours. After a long day, I retreated to my luxurious rooms for a well-earned rest.Friday 28th November – Poolside Relaxation and City Exploration

I started the morning with a visit to the hotel pool, soaking in the sun and enjoying a refreshing swim. It was the perfect way to unwind before venturing into Doha’s vibrant streets.  In the evening, I explored Souq Waqif, a traditional market buzzing with energy. Strolling through the narrow alleyways, I discovered everything from spices and textiles to art galleries and boutique shops. Dinner at Café Al Koot offered a relaxed and authentic dining experience, followed by a visit to the stunning Fanar Mosque, which made for a beautiful photo opportunity.  I made a quick stop at Place Vendome Mall to see the dancing fountain show, though it did not quite live up to expectations.

The night concluded with a visit to the F1 Village. While the experience was less exciting than anticipated, it offered a glimpse into the scale and spectacle of the city’s F1 celebrations.

Saturday 29th November – F1 Sprint and Qualifying

The morning began with another poolside session, allowing me to recharge before the main event. A short taxi ride took us to the Lusail International Circuit for the F1 sprint race and qualifying sessions.  The seats were perfectly positioned opposite the pits along the starting grid and home straight, offering unobstructed views while staying shaded from the sun. Max Verstappen dominated both sessions, showcasing his skill, while McLaren struggled to make an impact—a recurring theme across the weekend.

The venue was flawless, with free water everywhere, efficient food service, and excellent organisation throughout.  Even with a long walk back to taxis, the system in place ensured a smooth journey home, complete with our own Formula 1 taxi driver. The sheer scale and professionalism of the event were impressive, making the experience one to remember.

Sunday 30th November – Race Day Excitement

I took lessons from the previous day to approach race day with a more strategic plan, arriving early to secure food and soak in the atmosphere. The grid buzzed with activity, from warm-up routines to team preparations, giving a behind-the-scenes look at Formula 1 like no other.

The race itself, while not overly eventful, was thrilling to watch live. The McLaren team tried a 'bold' strategy, but it did not pay off—a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sport.

After the race, I returned to the hotel and unwound at the sports bar with a relaxed dinner and a few beers, reflecting on the excitement of the weekend.

Monday 1st December – Sunset Cruise, Poolside Indulgence, and Fine Dining

Monday was all about indulgence and relaxation. I started with a morning chill at the hotel pool, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere with far fewer guests around.  Later in the afternoon, I took a luxurious sunset cruise along the Doha coastline. Watching the city skyline bathed in golden light from the water was breathtaking, and the calm sea breeze made it a perfect way to unwind before the evening.

After the cruise, I visited the Ritz-Carlton for expertly crafted cocktails, taking in the opulent surroundings and vibrant atmosphere. Dinner at STK followed, where the steaks were exceptional and the service impeccable, rounding off a day of indulgence and unforgettable experiences.

Tuesday 2nd December – Farewell to Doha

A final morning swim before check-out offered one last chance to enjoy the hotel’s serene pool. I then headed to the airport for my flight back to London, concluding a seamless and luxurious stay in Doha.

Final Thoughts

Doha exceeded every expectation. From luxurious accommodations and world-class dining to the electrifying Formula 1 experience and serene sunset cruises, the city offers a perfect blend of excitement and indulgence. Discover Qatar ensured that every detail was taken care of, allowing me to enjoy every moment with ease. Whether you are seeking high-octane sports, cultural exploration, or a relaxing luxury getaway, Doha is a destination that delivers on all fronts.

For anyone seeking a combination of luxury, adventure, and unforgettable experiences, Doha is a destination not to be missed.