Feedback – The journey often begins where preconceived notions end.
Jean-Charles has returned from a place you never imagined you would want to visit, and his convictions have been shaken – feedback for a fresh perspective!
More than two weeks travelling in the Dominican Republic, experienced differently. Who said that the island was just about all-inclusive hotels? As soon as you take a step aside, another country reveals itself: contrasting, wild, surprisingly unspoilt in places. This trip took the form of a road trip, from the colonial capital of Santo Domingo to the most secret regions of the island, before consciously returning to the picture-postcard Dominican Republic.
In Doha, Qatar, Héloïse experienced luxury without ostentation. The compact and peaceful city offers a refined alternative to the major metropolises of the Gulf.
Two experiences for a fresh perspective!
> The Dominican Republic: you had to go there to understand...
Santo Domingo, gateway to history
Perfect for starting or ending a trip, Santo Domingo offers a gentle and cultural arrival. The first city founded in the Americas, the colonial capital can be explored on foot, among cobbled streets, weathered façades, omnipresent music and beautiful restaurants nestled in old mansions.
A truly timeless charm, ideal for a two-night stay or a weekend spent exploring history and lifestyle.
Punta Rucia, the secret place
Head northwest, far from the main tourist routes. Punta Rucia is a small fishing village overlooking a turquoise sea that seems almost unreal. With few hotels, very few visitors and an immediate feeling of being at the end of the world, the Punta Rucia Lodge, with its bungalows scattered across a sublime beach, perfectly embodies this secret Dominican Republic, both simple and precious..
The Samaná Peninsula, a world apart.
Samaná is a destination in itself. Raw, tropical and still largely unspoilt, it is the Dominican Republic at its most authentic, the place people come to visit… but without the crowds. Las Terrenas for its gentle energy, El Valle, a secluded jungle beach that can be reached at the end of a bumpy road, then Las Galeras, at the end of the peninsula, with its wild and heavenly beaches. Here, time slows down. You forget the world.
Bayahibe & Saona Island, the picture-perfect destination
And then, to finish off in style, Bayahibe and Saona Island. More touristy, certainly, but its reputation is well deserved: white sand, coconut trees as far as the eye can see, turquoise water. A pure seaside paradise, to be savoured as a final reward.
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Winter and early spring in Europe are the most suitable times to visit – March–April: an excellent compromise, with consistently good weather and slightly fewer visitors.
> > Qatar, understated elegance
In Doha, Qatar, Héloïse discovered a luxury that never seeks to show off. The city is compact, quiet, almost soothing, an elegant alternative to the large metropolises of the Gulf. In just a few minutes, you can go from iconic architecture to an urban beach, then to the desert on the outskirts of the city. Everything is simple, fluid, serene. What struck me was the rare balance between confident modernity and strong cultural identity, in a safe and refined atmosphere.
Gentle nature, between desert and inland sea
The Khor Al Adaid desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offered Héloïse one of the most striking silences she has ever experienced: dunes plunging directly into the sea. Whether it’s a 4×4 safari, sandboarding, camel riding or a night in a comfortable camp, here, adventure always remains understated. Further north, the mangroves of Al Thakira can be explored by kayak, among flamingos and tranquil waters. A gentle and totally unexpected interlude.
crédit photo @VisitQatar
Doha, culture and urban lifestyle.
Doha is like an open-air museum. The National Museum of Qatar, designed by Jean Nouvel, the Museum of Islamic Art and the monumental library in Education City powerfully convey the soul of the country. I enjoyed strolling through Souq Waqif, surrounded by the scent of incense and traditional shops, before returning to the ultra-contemporary aesthetic of The Pearl. The contrast is constant, but always harmonious.
crédit photo @VisitQatar
Exceptional hotels and unusual retreats.
Here, hospitality is an art form. Sumptuous spas, private beaches and bespoke service define Doha’s finest establishments. Overlooking the Gulf, the Four Seasons cultivates a hushed elegance, without ever overdoing it: a cosmopolitan retreat where the art of living is expressed through signature cuisine, clean lines and moments suspended in time.
The Raffles Doha, housed in the iconic Katara Towers, embodies contemporary luxury at its finest: all suites, spectacular design and ultra-personalised service. A signature address, designed as a modern palace.
And then there is the desert. In the heart of the Al Barari reserve, The Outpost offers a confidential luxury experience, rooted in silence and nature. A rare, deeply sensory experience where everything invites you to slow down.
Just a five-hour flight from Nice and six hours from Paris and Brussels, Qatar is at its best when France is sliding into autumn or waking up to spring, revealing its most beautiful seasons, with a mild, bright climate that is perfect for outdoor experiences.
During Ramadan, the country offers a rare advantage: exceptionally attractive hotel rates for the same level of luxury, evenings that take on a special dimension and nights that are truly unique.
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