Another great, yet imperfect, experience in Doha - don't get me wrong, there's a lot to like here, but I could see the cracks in the seams with a few items / details. I would still recommend the property - here are my pros, cons, and photos:
Pros:
- Had to ask at check-in (more in Cons), but was upgraded to a Cool Corner Suite Sea View that was ready at 12:30 PM - though, it was only on the 4th floor (hotel rooms here only go up to 15 as residences are on 16-29)
- I really liked the layout of the Cool Corner Suite - especially the large and comfortable desk (so funny that a W has a fantastic productive space) and the massive amount of floor-to-ceiling windows
- Bed was fantastic - just-right mattress, large, plush pillows, plush covers
- Great views of surrounding buildings and water (you can see the STR in the distance and the new JW tower if it ever opens)
- Friendly service throughout - great luggage service, great front desk, brought a nice welcome juice at check-in
- Elite welcome gift breakfast at Market by Jean-Georges was great
- Super tasty dish that I could only describe as breakfast pizza
- Nice salmon benedict on made-to-order menu
- Tasty cinnamon donut and chocolate muffin with white frosting
- Brought out a super sweet plate of pancakes with a chocolate Welcome message - the server brought a plate, I told him I didn't order anything else, and he just smiled as he lowered it so I could see the message - a great moment
- The restaurant manager was super friendly and was constantly checking on me and others
- Offered late checkout proactively - I asked for 2 PM, which was granted with no problem
Cons:
- No Internet TV OS
- Shower had a poor smell - pretty sure it was a drain issue as the drain plate seemed to be missing, and the smell went away when the water was running (so not an issue while taking a shower) - I chose to not notify as I was already settled in, etc.
- Shower setup is impractical - pressure from the rainfall head is poor, the wand has great pressure but only has a low hook that points at back-level rather than head-level
- I was not pre-upgraded most likely by mistake - at check-in, I heard "so, we have you in a Spectacular Room on the 5th floor" - I politely asked if there were any upgrades, the associate looked and said "oh, wait, yes, you're an Ambassador. Let me get you something." - there was a lot of discussion between agents and some trips to the back office - it seemed pretty obvious that I was missed in the pre-arrival sweep, and they weren't expecting such a mistake to be made
- No evening lounge offering - a drawback compared to other nearby options at similar price points (JW, MM, Sheraton, etc.)
- No in-room welcome treat - I have a hunch this was due to the room mixup - not a huge issue, but a bit surprising for a hotel of this class in this region
Overall, I would definitely consider returning.
Photos: