Valentine’s for… hedonists

If you and your valentine believe that the pursuit of pleasure is humankind’s ultimate reason for existence, then look no further. On February 14 take the day off, and make sure your loved one does too (work and pleasure don’t often mix). After a long lie in, between your crispy Egyptian cotton sheets (we know you pleasure-seekers have them), start your day with some of life’s simple joys. Head down to the Corniche and take a leisurely stroll, then head over to Souk Waqif for lunch. In the afternoon, get yourself onto a dhow cruise – you can hop on board one of the public dhows next to the Balhambar building. We were once quoted QR60 for 20 minutes, but you can always haggle, especially if you plan on going out for longer. Once your lungs have had their fill of sea air, head to the Library Bar & Cigar Lounge at Four Seasons (494 8888), where you can spoil each other with fine tobacco, cocktails and a glass of bubbly.

By now you’ll both be feeling an inner glow that can only be enhanced further by a signature treatment at the newly opened Jaula Spa at the Grand Hyatt Doha (448 1234). There are a number of options here, which you can enjoy together in the couples suite, the most lavish being the hot stone massage, which lasts 90 minutes and will set you back QR850 each. Or if you want to try something a little different, an aromatherapy treatment in the Jaula Room lasts one hour and will cost QR450 each.

The sun is setting, but the evening is young. Time to indulge at La Maison du Caviar at the W Doha Hotel (453 5353). Feast on artfully presented seafood and spoonfuls of beluga. This place isn’t cheap, but then luxury never is. The enjoyment gained by the saltiness and the explosion of tiny fishy bubbles is almost too much to bear.

Rather than head back home, make sure you have already booked into the Grand Hyatt Doha, taking advantage of their February 11-15 offer. For QR4,950, you’ll get a two-night stay for two in a suite, with daily breakfast buffet at The Grill, private outdoor dining in the evening in one of the pergolas or at the beach with a dedicated chef and service staff, couples therapy at Jaula Spa, limousine pick-up, flowers and chocolates on arrival, and a late checkout. You may want to book some more days off.