Embrace the island life at InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa. Located on Hayat Island, just a 45-minute drive from Dubai, the resort is nestled on the sparkling shores of the Arabian Gulf, with the terracotta desert and soaring mountains serving as a scenic backdrop to an island escape unlike any other in the UAE.
The expansive accommodation collection is centered around an oversized infinity pool, bordered by palm trees swaying gently in the sea breeze, offering shade perfect for lazy afternoons dipping in and out of the scintillating, refreshing water.
With 3 distinct resort experiences, make your selection from romantic havens, private pool villas, and the exclusive Club InterContinental experience, combining modern luxury with enchanting local touches.
Six dining venues peppered across the resort offer a varied range of cuisines and ambiances for every mood. Visit New York at NoHo Bar & Grill, opt-in for the unlimited grill at Levant & Nar, travel around the world at Saffar, unwind poolside at Shasha, indulge in a sweet and savoury afternoon-tea at Ramsa, or sample our whiskey of the month at Amarbar.
At the newly opened SPA InterContinental, reconnect mind and body in the most serene of environments. Escape to the Hammam and enjoy a traditional ritual, or surrender to the latest well-being treatments while in the care of highly skilled therapists.
TO SEE MORE
Maps and Vogs have made a name for itself as a travel brand signifying quality & reliability, be it for Business, Leisure, MICE, Events, or its Educational travel segment.
Endowed with an in-depth knowledge of the business and with over 20 years of experience and keen awareness of global travel trends, their founders decided to move forward from the conservative travel sector to explore more groundbreaking travel. Hence Maps & Vogs was founded.
Their expertise team is well versed in handling:
- Bespoke Travel
- Life-style Holidays
- MICE
- Edu Tours
- Event Management
- Destination Weddings
Firstly, can you provide us with an overview of Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha’s unique features and what sets it apart from other luxury hotels in the region?
Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha provides exceptional features that set it apart from others. Centrally located in Doha’s vibrant financial & business district, with easy access to the finest shopping centres, cultural sights, and tourist attractions. The hotel is a short walk from the metro, Corniche, City Centre and North West Bay Beach, accessible directly from the hotel via the treelined Boulevard.
Boasting an impressive range of 16 accommodation types, from spacious studios to 371 square meter penthouses, all featuring captivating city or sea views and equipped with modern amenities. A sea-facing pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, Kids Club, and business amenities cater to the diverse needs of both business and leisure travellers.
An array of international dining specialties from award-winning restaurants includes Dalchini progressive Indian cuisine, Thai Kitchen Restaurant serving Thai and International gastronomy, and The Mezze House, a modern Lebanese Resto lounge, serving handcrafted beverages, mezze platters and grills, while the outdoor terrace serves classic Shisha flavours and Sommelier Selection.
The hotel demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices to reduce its environmental impact.
As part of the Centara Hotels & Resorts group, guests can expect genuine Thai hospitality and exceptional service. These unique features combine to make Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha a standout luxury destination in the region, appealing to both business and leisure travellers seeking a premium and memorable stay experience.
What inspired you to pursue a career in hotel management, and what path led you to your current role as general manager?
At the age of 14, I had the opportunity to work as a 'porter' at The Royal Albion Hotel in Broadstairs, Kent, England, during a summer vacation. This experience sparked my passion for the hotel and hospitality industry. I pursued my interest by graduating in Hotel Management and then embarked on a transformative journey through Southeast Asia. During my travels, I became deeply enamoured with Asian cuisine, culture, and the vibrant hospitality scene.
My career began with the innovative restaurant group in 1997. While in Hong Kong, I had the privilege of meeting Paul Hsu, a renowned and creative restauranteur behind Elite Concepts. He became my mentor and inspired me to set up the first Elite Concepts venture in Indonesia. My background in Food and Beverage led me to assume high-profile roles across various continents, such as Director of Food and Beverage in the UAE and Egypt, Executive Assistant Manager in South Korea, and Director of Operations in Canada.
As my career progressed, I took on challenging roles as Corporate Director for hotel pre-openings, Asset Management, and General Manager positions in both Qatar and Africa. My time in Dubai proved particularly impactful, as I had the honour of working with Anthony Liddiard, an inspirational and visionary leader. His mentorship enhanced my creativity and work style, and enriched my knowledge. To this day, Anthony remains a valued mentor and friend.
My journey in the hospitality industry has been one of continuous growth, fuelled by passion and guided by exceptional mentors and opportunities across the globe.
What strategies do you employ to ensure exceptional guest experiences and maintain high service standards in a luxury setting?
The hotel prioritises service excellence by providing personalised attention, luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, attention to detail, a highly trained staff, and a focus on guest safety and security.
Offering a range of 5-star facilities, including a well-equipped fitness centre, studio for classes, steam and sauna rooms for men and women, jacuzzi, large indoor swimming pool, a kids pool, and supervised Kids Club.
Our spacious, well-appointed apartments and penthouses feature high-quality amenities and views of the city and the Arabian Gulf. Guests can expect comfortable beds, cleanliness, and luxurious toiletries.
The team is courteous, knowledgeable, and readily available to assist guests at any time. Paying attention to each guest, from personalised Thai style greetings, “Sawasdee”, upon arrival to remembering guests’ preferences.
As General Manager, how do you foster a culture of excellence and motivation among your team members to deliver outstanding customer service?
As a hotel General Manager, fostering a culture of excellence and motivation among team members is crucial for delivering outstanding customer service.
I would set the standard by demonstrating a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. Leading by example inspires and motivates team members to follow suit.
Communicate with a clear vision and mission for the hotel, emphasizing the importance of customer satisfaction and the role each team member plays in achieving that goal. Provide comprehensive training programs to equip team members with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. Maintain an open-door policy and encourage regular communication with team members. Actively listen to their concerns, feedback, and ideas for improvement, making them feel valued and respected. Create a supportive and inclusive work environment where team members feel comfortable expressing themselves and contributing to the hotel's success.
What strategies do you use to create a positive and supportive work environment for your staff, and how do you ensure that they are engaged and motivated?
Each member of our team has a different opinion, vision and approach about a specific matter, as well as our guests. Being open to listen, and trying to validate their suggestions help us to design a service that suits different POV and therefore makes more people identify with the experience. There are others but this might be the main one considering it improves the engagement and at the same time the quality of service.
In your view, what are the key challenges and opportunities facing luxury resorts in the current travel landscape, and how does Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha navigate them?
The oversupply and increased inventory of hotel rooms post World Cup, makes it challenging for luxury hotels to predict and manage occupancy levels effectively. These economic uncertainties have made some luxury travellers more price-sensitive, leading to increased demand for value-added packages and discounts.
Travelers are also increasingly conscious of sustainability and social responsibility. Hotels must adopt environmentally friendly practices and support local communities to meet guest expectations. The shift towards digitalization and contactless services requires luxury hotels to invest in technology and ensure a seamless guest experience.
However, Centara West Bay is focusing on the domestic and regional markets that can provide a stable source of guests amid international travel restrictions. We offer both short and long-stay options. By creating enticing packages for extended stays, we cater to guests seeking longer escapes. We also demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility through eco-friendly practices and community engagement.
What do you see as the future of the hotel industry, and how do you plan to position your hotel to thrive in an ever-changing landscape?
Future trends in the hotel industry will increasingly leverage technology to enhance guest experiences, such as contactless check-ins, personalised services through AI-powered systems, and smart room features. Environmental concerns will also drive hotels to adopt more sustainable practices, including energy-efficient operations, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing.
At Centara West Bay, we will focus on several key strategies to grow its reputation, expand its market presence, and maintain its position as a hospitality destination in Qatar.
The hotel will continuously invest in upgrading its facilities and amenities to meet the needs and preferences of guests and a highly trained staff to maintain the excellent service standards. Embracing eco-friendly practices and sustainability initiatives will be a priority, aligning with global trends and environmentally conscious travellers.
Additionally, we will embrace change and remain flexible to adjust strategies and offerings as new trends and technologies emerge.
Any exciting future plans for the resort?
We are excited to announce the upcoming renovation and expansion of Dalchini Restaurant & Bar. The outdoor terrace project, known as "Dalchini Wraparound," is scheduled for launch in Mid-October 2023 alongside the new additional menu concept - Ayush.
We aim to introduce a new vegetarian menu featuring a diverse range of innovative and delectable dishes that will not only cater to the vegetarian community but also attract new clientele from all backgrounds. Our goal is to expand the restaurant's customer base and solidify its reputation as a preferred destination for vegetarian cuisine. In addition to the vegetarian offerings, we plan to enhance the overall experience by introducing Tandoor delectables, International beverages, and shisha options. As part of this project, we are also considering a refresh of the Dalchini logo and exploring the possibility of including the two Michelin starred chef’s name alongside Dalchini to leverage his influence and promote the new menu in the market.
Qatar expansion for Centara Hotels and Resorts will encompass six distinct brands making their debut over the next few years. An expansion plan is in place which has developed key talent to support both the growth of Centara and retain our position as preferred employer. This has translated into the hotel brand of choice for Owners.
SCAN ME
TO SEE MORE
Experience memorable fine dining in a chic atmosphere, through exquisite culinary compositions, crafted to create a harmonious balance between smoky, sweet, spicy and vibrant flavours.
An opulent world & a creative lifestyle. A world that combines modern architecture, exclusive contemporary japanese cuisine and a luxurious atmosphere: welcome to Myazu.
Myazu is contemporary culinary art rooted in japanese culture, blended with the most sophisticated international cuisine influences. Their executive chefs create modern dishes using traditional techniques and the finest quality ingredients.
Provided By Myazu
Serene skies, stunning surroundings, and silent service. Far from the madding crowd, Mysk Moon Retreat offers simplicity, adventure, discovery, privacy, and hands-on glamping. Explore Mleiha Fossil Rock and the desert by day and enjoy a canopy of stars by night. Discover the new you!
Guests will experience the serenity of the desert and memorable silhouettes in the changing light of the day and night. The retreat is a unique blend of glamping and a do-it-yourself adventure.
Set in the shadow of the Fossil Rock, amidst the sand dunes of Mleiha, and framed by Al Faya Mountains. The retreat is located 68kms (52 minutes) from Sharjah, 61 kms (46 minutes) from Dubai, 176 kms (1 hour 50 minutes) from Abu Dhabi, and 15 minutes from Mleiha Archeological Centre.
10 domes and 6 tents are thoughtfully designed, all with commanding desert vista, barbecue terrace and most with temperature controlled pools.
SCAN ME
TO SEE MORE
Breathtaking natural landscapes that create mesmerizing memories etched in your mind forever. Yoga at sunrise, a visit to the Archeological Centre, leisurely lunch, a trek or dune bashing, horse riding or visiting a camel farm, are all just possibilities by day. An Arabic coffee ceremony by sunset, stargazing or a hands-on barbeque, are just a few options by night.
The retreat offers limited on-site services. Guests will be required to largely cater to their needs themselves. A host is present for urgent services round the clock. Housekeeping is provided on alternate days.
All accommodations have a self-help pre-installed gas-fired barbeque facility on the terrace. All that you may need is provided at your terrace grill. Enjoy bonding with friends and family while you cook together.
Provided By Mysk Moon Retreat
Centrally located in Doha’s vibrant financial & business district, with easy access to the finest shopping centres, cultural sights and tourist attractions. Centara West Bay is a short walk from the metro, Corniche, City Center and North West Bay Beach, accessible directly from the hotel via the treelined Boulevard.
Inside is a wide selection of rooms and facilities, including 16 accommodation types ranging from spacious studios to 371-square-metre penthouses, all boasting city or sea views as well as a dishwasher, washer and dryer. A sea-facing pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre, varied dining options, Kids’ Club and business amenities round out the property's comprehensive facilities, making it a comfortable home for both business and leisure travellers, whether you're planning a short visit or extended stay.
An array of international dining specialties from award winning restaurants include, Dalchini progressive Indian cuisine delicately balancing creativity and authenticity, the contemporary Thai Kitchen Restaurant serving Thai Cuisine and International gastronomy, and The Mezze House, a brand-new modern Lebanese Resto-lounge serving masterfully handcrafted beverages and scrumptious mezze platters and grills; the outdoor terrace serves classic Shisha flavours and Sommelier Selection.
Firstly, we would love to know how you became a luxury travel blogger and get to where you are today.
I started this adventure 10 years ago just after my wedding. My husband and I went on our honeymoon, then we went again and again and again until today. At first, we just wanted to take beautiful holiday photos for our albums, then over time, we tried to improve to make it more and more beautiful. My Instagram account started to grow a little more every day.
I created my blog and started writing articles to be more efficient in my work. I spent hours answering all my followers' questions and it was getting unmanageable! It was much more practical for me and for those who follow me to gather all the information concerning my travels in one place.
I think it's time, but especially age that has oriented us towards more and more luxurious travel. We still keep a fist of honor not to take a liking to it and vary the standard of our trips to inspire all budgets.
For many reasons, you can imagine. Of course, the trips and the unforgettable experiences. We have the impression of having already lived a thousand lives! And then the encounters, in recent years it has not been uncommon for us to create sincere friendships during our adventures.
Finally, having the chance to share my work with my husband Youssef is one reason why I love my job. It must be said that we spend most of our time traveling away from our families, which can sometimes be emotionally hard. We miss a lot of important family moments, celebrations, and births and we don't see our nephews and nieces growing up, unfortunately. His presence by my side for the past 15 years confirms to me that all this time away from our families is not in vain.
What does your daily work routine look like?
I always start my day with an iced latte, then I read my emails and I manage the emergencies of the day. I work an average of 12 hours a day, mainly in front of a screen. Youssef for his part sorts the content of our previous trip to choose the best videos that will integrate our future montages. Around noon I do my 40min of daily sport (well, I try) then I take my lunch. I generally spend the afternoon and evening doing video editing with Youssef.
Focusing on middle east this month, what sparked your interest in exploring the middle east as a travel destination?
In recent years the Middle East has opened up to tourism and the world has been able to observe all these wonderful treasures which have been secretly well kept until today. After that, I think the Middle East has not only aroused my interest but also that of the whole world.
Gulf countries are evolving at breakneck speed! Every year I witness major changes that would take 30 years to observe in the rest of the world.
Finally, the security that some of these countries offer me is the reason why I like to go there. Being a woman and being able to go out at any time without worrying about my safety is priceless.
Which middle eastern city or destination would you recommend as a must-visit for travellers, and why?
I will never say it enough but go to Saudi Arabia!
The tourist visa was inaugurated only 3 years ago now. The country is still quite a virgin in terms of tourism but not for long. The country aims to become one of the most touristic countries in the world
and I think it is an achievable ambition. So, trust me, and get there before the country becomes totally taken over by a horde of travellers. Among the must-see places, is the city of AlUla for its breathtaking landscapes and I loved visiting Jeddah.
I unequivocally recommend the Emirate of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. Sharjah is much less known than Dubai and Abu Dhabi but conceals very impressive treasures such as the archaeological site of Mleiha, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic civilization, and the city of Khorfakkan. It has been considered the cultural capital of the Emirates, much less ostentatious but just as luxurious as the rest of the country.
If you are in Egypt, let yourself be tempted by the oasis of Siwa. It is a place known for the beauty of its otherworldly salt pools. The population is very welcoming, and the food is delicious. The city also has a large cultural heritage like vestiges of the ancient Egyptian civilization.
Do you have any exciting trips coming up and could you tell us more?
Yes, we have! I always reserve the months of July and August to visit Europe. I have a trip planned in the south of France, and 2 trips to Italy including a road trip. Nothing has been decided yet, but it is highly likely that I will go to Saudi Arabia again in August. It's going to be a very busy summer, but I can't wait to live all these experiences!
List the top 3 countries on your bucket list and why?
So, of course, I have many more destinations on my bucket list but if I have to choose 3, I will definitely put Oman there. This destination has been on my mind for a while now. I had already planned to go there a few years ago but unfortunately for various reasons it never happened. The emerald-colored water and the Sultan Qaboos mosque made me dream for a long time.
In the second position, I would say Qatar. I must admit that the World Cup has put an unprecedented spotlight on this country, which did not leave me indifferent. The beautiful city of Doha has been highlighted and I hope to be able to visit there in the near future.
Finally, I would like to tick the Lebanon box on my bucket list. This country has been eyeing us for a while now. My husband dreams of seeing the Baatara Gorge waterfalls in Tannourine with his own eyes and he managed to convince me too. And I must be honest, the Lebanese food plays a crucial role in our desire to go there.
Lastly, what advice would you give to someone planning their first trip to the middle east to ensure they have an enriching and safe experience?
The Middle East has one of the richest cultural heritages in the world. Prepare your trip in advance to be sure not to miss the unmissable. Some activities are so popular that you have to book them in advance. Keep in mind that your plans can also change on the spot so leave room for spontaneity. Believe me, I speak from experience!
Security in the Middle East differs from country to country. The Gulf countries, for example, are extremely safe. Crime rates are among the lowest in the world. Other countries in the Middle East are not so lucky, find out and read the recommendations of your government before going there. Keep in mind that this region of the world is predominantly Muslim. Some areas are more conservative than others, so plan some modest outfits (for women but also for men). These outfits will also be used to visit mosques where a dress code is mandatory (as in churches in Europe). I think taking a guide is a very wise choice in this region. However, if this is your first visit to the Middle East, expect all your prejudices to be shattered and discover an example of open-mindedness and tolerance in this part of the world.
Finally, and above all, bring sunscreen!
TO SEE MORE
Alwadi Hotel is a distinctive 5-star boutique hotel ideal for business or leisure and is just a 15 minute drive from Hamad International Airport, and 10 minutes from West Bay. It is the first MGallery boutique hotel in Qatar where the “art de recevoir” embraces authentic local experiences and enhances memorable moments in a charming yet luxurious setting
Situated in an enviable locale, Alwadi Hotel Doha Mgallery Hotel Collection provides guests with easy access to Musheireb Downtown Doha’s business hub and expansive range of shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. The hotel is also just a few steps from the spectacular Souq Waqif, a traditional-style marketplace, where guests can explore Qatar’s heritage and culture.
Offering 213 luxurious rooms and suites with enviable amenities, a spectacular ballroom and five high-class meeting rooms, a variety of restaurants, and an exclusive spa and swimming pool, Alwadi Hotel Doha Hotel Collection is ideal for business or leisure.
Set in the heart of the Holy City under the umbrella of Makkah Construction and Development Company (MCDC), Makkah Hotel & Towers offers 1437 contemporary rooms and suites, and a prime location overlooking Holy Haram. Enjoy many premium amenities, including excellent dining and majestic views from the panoramic glass lifts.
The 5-star Makkah Hotel is the closest hotel to the Holy Haram, situated in a prime location in the city's centre, directly over the Haram Piazza – the most sacred Masjid in the world. The luxury hotel features incredible Holy Haram and Kaaba views, boasting a spectacular entrance to this grand complex. The historic hotel’s opulent style is complemented by seven panoramic elevators and five elegant restaurants. Getting here is easy, with King Abdul Aziz International Airport just one hour away by car.
Enjoy the fantastic location in the heart of Makkah overlooking the Muslim’s sacred Masjid. Many main area attractions are at your doorstep, with other important Islamic holy sites less than five miles away.
Zamzam Well, Jabal al-Nour, Cave of Heraa and Makkah Museum are all nearby landmarks and hidden gems close by, including a large shopping mall, supermarket, and a variety of international restaurants and lounges for all tastes.
Wake up in a bright guest room and VIP suite and admire the stunning views over the Kaaba and the Holy Haram. Stay in touch with families and friends with high-speed Internet access. Unwind with a newspaper in your separate seating area, or refresh in the marble bathroom after performing Umrah.
In our next issue, prepare to discover the Paradise of Thai Luxury! We present a captivating journey through the enchanting land of Thailand, where luxury spas, extraordinary restaurants, lavish hotels, and exquisite resorts await your arrival.
