Banyan Tree Doha ★★★★★

Once upon a time, Doha was just a sleepy pearling and fishing village. Today, things are a little different, and the city rivals Dubai with its skyline of futuristic skyscrapers and impressive contemporary architecture. However, its rich history and traditions have not been forgotten, and fancy shopping malls sit happily alongside traditional souqs.

Inspired by Qatar’s heritage, the five-star Banyan Tree Doha’s elegant contemporary architecture and design features an abundance of natural materials such as wood and stone, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its 126 rooms and suites are all designed to be comfortable, stylish and well-equipped for all your needs – blending contemporary design with rich, earthy tones and traditional Arabic influences. And the best bit is the floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering incredible city vistas.

As an eco-conscious hotel in one of the world's driest countries, they implement several water conservation measures, and the hotel is proud to grow its own fruits and vegetables and serve these alongside locally sourced food in its fantastic restaurants. You can choose between modern Thai dishes and Italian or Indian cuisine. After dinner, head to level 28, and you'll find Vertigo Doha, one of the highest clubs in the Mushaireb area with incredible 360-degree views.

Located at the heart of Doha, the top sights are easy to reach either by foot or via the Doha Metro. Walk along the waterfront promenade and soak in the city’s atmosphere. Visit the famous Museum of Islamic Art or the National Museum of Qatar to learn about the country’s long history. Whilst there is a lot to explore in Doha, schedule time to relax at the hotel’s superb wellness centre, swim in one of two pools, one indoor and one outdoor, or squeeze in a more strenuous workout in the well-equipped gym.