Enjoy Maldives-like paradise off Doha coast at Banana Island
Dhaka: Overwater villas, golden sands and beautiful turquoise water rarely come to mind when imagining a stay in Middle East’s Doha. However, off the coast of the Qatari capital lies a top destination named Banana Island that offers all this and even more. The crescent-shaped Banana Island has become a top destination for luxury-seeking vacationers since opening in 2015.
Operated by Thailand-based Anantara, the luxury resort island lays claim to Qatar's only overwater bungalows, some of which are fully equipped with lounging decks and private infinity pools, as well as one of just two overwater bungalow resorts in the Gulf region. Big on comfort and lavishness, Banana Island strikes a great, Maldives-like first impression with its palm-thatched roofs and opulent rooms overlooking the sea.
The luxury resort can be reached via catamaran from Dhow Harbour (located near to the Museum of Islamic Arts) or by private yacht. Those who opt for the former will be greeted with warm smiles as they board the ferry, where they can sample Arabian coffee, dates and water during the journey. Some 20 minutes later, guests are welcomed onto the 13-acre island by the sound of beating drums, ushering into a world of total relaxation.
The 141 guest rooms, villas and bungalows here are decorated with Arabic designs and feature deluxe mosaic-adorned bathrooms, all of which are stocked up with automatically controlled curtains, flat-screen TVs, mini-bars and coffee machines.
When guests are not lounging on the private 800-meter beach, guests have a long list of outdoor activities to keep them occupied. Think diving, kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, or conquering the waves on a surfing simulator.
Those looking for something slightly more relaxing may prefer to jump onto the Instagram-friendly sea swing, which swishes above the ocean shallows.
The resort also provides a number of experiences and day trips and experiences including an afternoon tea tour, a private "dining by design" experience for special occasions and various spa treatments.
Guests can sip mocktails by the lagoon pool, play beach sports and hit the golf course or simply fuel up in one of the island's numerous restaurants serving anything from traditional Middle Eastern and Asian delicacies to American diner classics and Italian fine dining. A fleet of electric golf carts is always at hand to ferry guests around.
If the hot Gulf sun gets too much, there are several indoor activities to choose from. Guests have the option to relax at the island's spa and wellness center, test their bowling skills in a multi-lane alley, play pool and foosball or curl up amongst pillows and blankets while watching blockbusters inside an exclusive 20-seat movie theater. A big hit with families, there's also a children's cinema as well as kids' clubs, including a pool with slides.
