"Qatar’s game-changing, artificial Pearl Island complex welcomed its first hotel in 2014, and it’s a palatial pink pile that towers over the bay from its own islet. With its domes, columns, and archways, the building calls to mind a Venetian palazzo, and that’s very much by design; in fact, you’ll even find paintings of Italy’s Floating City in some guest rooms, alongside romantic detailing like steamer trunks and crystal chandeliers. At the Spa by Clarins, there’s a hammam for utter relaxation, and the wide array of restaurants here includes standouts like Al Sufra, which draws on the flavors of Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. On the other end of the spectrum: a family-friendly retro American diner, complete with leather booths and a digital jukebox." - Jenna Scatena
