La Dolce Vita

A spa day is not a luxury – it’s a necessity that comes with the fast-paced life we’ve accustomed our bodies to lead. It’s no wonder, then, that OHLALA’s Anzish Mirza took a moment to slow down at The Venue.

We believe in taking time for your body to rest and rejuvenate, so follow us to The Venue Ladies as we take you through an almost out-of-body experience that starts with, well, your body. For starters, the award-winning health club takes a contemporary and fun approach to fitness. With panoramic views of the city of Doha, state-of-the-art facilities, and blissful pampering that accompanies each visit, this exclusive spot is the place to be. And we’re here to bask in the renowned V Spa massage.

One way to spot a good massage is that it starts before you even set foot inside the treatment room. We never trust a massage therapist who doesn’t ask the crucial questions, and mine checks all the proverbial boxes as we check the boxes on her consultation form. Not only does she ask me about my health and family history, but also about my session goals and where I carry my stress. In other words, she sets herself some targets to meet and, spoiler alert, she does. After our brief consultation, I am taken into a private treatment room that immediately engulfs me in tranquillity and calmness. The dark-blue hues of the wall bounce off the serene white bed, whilst the sounds of the ocean move waft in the air. The room is sprinkled with rose petals, making this experience even more luxurious. The massage therapist gradually begins working her fingers on my skin, making sure to slowly increase her pressure to a point that is firm, but bearable for my body. The warm sandalwood oil seeps into my skin, deeply nourishing it until it’s soft and supple. As she makes her way up, I immediately feel my mind and muscles relax – my breathing deepens, my blood flows faster, and I can practically feel my stress floating away. There really is something intangible about the way the right pressure can release your inner toxins and rejuvenate your outer self. I allow my mind to wander off as the interior of the room and pressure on my body transports me to a place far away as soft, melodic music eases my mind. The room also gives guests a complete sense of privacy, so the only thing you have to worry about is falling into a slumber on the table. The massage has me drifting into a euphoric state of relaxation post-session, slowing my movements as my body welcomes the rush of feel-good endorphins throughout. To end the experience on a memorable note, I’m treated to sweets and a warm cup of tea to accompany me while I mentally brace myself for the real world outside. We suggest you take a moment or two of solitude in this space before diving back into the rest of your day – these small moments of peace are precious as you gather your thoughts and re-enter your mind and body.

The Venue Ladies truly encompasses the meaning of luxury with splendid services, and boasts impeccable views from its outdoor pool and exercise areas. All members receive access to prestigious changing rooms, an intimate jacuzzi, a picturesque steam room, and limitless options at the juice bar. But there’s more! There’s also Pilates equipment, an elegant deluxe lounge, unique indoor and outdoor classes as well as event spaces. The Venue is no ordinary gym – it’s a social club that simultaneously caters to body, mind, and soul.

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Sylvia Szabo General Manager, The