Overwater villas, golden sands and stunning turquoise water are not always what come to mind when you picture a getaway in Doha.
But just off the coast of the Qatari capital lies a standout spot that offers all of this and then some.
Crescent-shaped Banana Island has become one of the most sought-after luxury escapes since it opened in 2015.
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This lavish resort island, run by the Thai company Anantara, lays claim to Qatar's only overwater bungalows, some of them fully kitted out with sun loungers and private infinity pools, and it is one of just two resorts with overwater bungalows in the Persian Gulf region (the other being the Palm Resort in Dubai).
A World of Relaxation
Defined by comfort and luxury, Banana Island makes a first impression reminiscent of the Maldives, thanks to its palm-thatched roofs and plush sea-view rooms.
You can reach the upscale resort by catamaran from the Dhow Harbour (located next to the Museum of Islamic Art) or by private yacht.
Those who choose the first option are greeted with warm smiles as they board the ferry, where Arabic coffee, dates and water are served during the crossing.
Roughly 20 minutes later, guests are welcomed to the 13-acre island by the sound of drums, an invitation into a world of complete relaxation.
The 141 rooms, villas and bungalows are styled in Arabian fashion and fitted with lavish bathrooms decorated with mosaics. All of them come equipped with automated curtains, flat-screen televisions, minibars and coffee makers.
"What impressed me most was just how large the standard room was," said Alexander Koehler in 2019, a 26-year-old Doha resident from South Africa who takes the short ferry trip to Banana Island every few months.
"I had a comfortable daybed on the veranda with a wonderful view of the ocean," he added. "The bathrooms were really impressive, and so was the oceanfront restaurant, you could watch fish swimming right below you."
Beach Escapades
When guests are not lounging on the private 800-metre beach, they have a long list of outdoor activities to keep them busy.
Think diving, kayaking, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding or riding the waves on a surf simulator.
Those after something more laid-back might prefer to hop onto the sea swings that glide over the shallow ocean waters.
The resort also offers a range of experiences and day tours, including an afternoon tea tour, a private "dining by design" dinner for special occasions and a variety of spa treatments.
Visitors from abroad should keep in mind that Qatar is an Islamic country and, in keeping with local custom, Banana Island is a "dry" resort. Guests cannot bring their own alcohol to enjoy in private.
But they can sip mocktails by the lagoon pool, take part in beach sports, play golf or simply refuel at one of the island's many restaurants, which serve everything from traditional Middle Eastern and Asian delicacies to American classics and Italian fine dining.
A fleet of electric golf carts is always on hand to shuttle you around the island.
Family Favourites
If the fierce Persian Gulf sun proves too much, there are several indoor options to choose from.
Guests can unwind at the island's spa and wellness centre, test their skills on the multi-lane bowling alley, play billiards and foosball, or settle in among the cushions and blankets to watch blockbusters in an exclusive 20-seat cinema.
The hotel has a children's cinema, as well as kids' clubs, including a pool with slides.
Beyond overnight guests, especially those from Qatar itself along with Germany, Russia and the United Kingdom, the resort is also popular with day-trippers seeking fun and calm away from the traffic-choked streets of Doha, before hopping on the ferry back to the bustling Gulf metropolis.
