The Residence Douz

We were warmly welcomed on arrival and kindly upgraded to a complete villa. It was extremely spacious and comfortable, with stunning scenery, which made the stay even more special. Mr Bechir and his team were lovely, professional, welcoming, and always helpful. The hotel is peaceful and beautiful, a great place to relax. The interiors are exceptionally designed, very clean, and well maintained, with a calm, elegant atmosphere. The room had a minibar and coffee machine, both included in the price. There’s also a well-kept spa and swimming pool. Breakfast was amazing, with excellent quality and variety. Dinner was good too, though a little expensive; the quality and setting made it worthwhile. Food shops are about five to ten minutes away by car. I had an excellent, relaxing stay at Residence Douz by Cenizaro and would happily return. Highly recommend it.

I was genuinely glad to try this new hotel as a local coming home. I went for breakfast and booked a hammam and massage. The hammam was very good, and a lovely woman took great care of me and my companions. I loved the place itself, but unfortunately I don’t think I’ll return. The massage fell short of what I expected. I’d clearly told them beforehand that I’d had surgery and that my back needed special care. My sister was receiving a massage alongside me, with another staff member in the room. Shortly after the session started, I heard whispering and quiet laughter. While holding my wrist, the therapist seemed to be exchanging comments and laughter with her colleague. It left me uncomfortable and judged. I found that unprofessional and unethical. Clients’ differences should be respected, and nobody should feel body-shamed in a wellness space. Massage therapists should understand the sensitivity and responsibility of their work. People come to relax, not feel judged.

A concierge receptionist, who I believe was named Mourad, escorted my husband and me to our room by buggy. He had a bald head and light skin and was seated facing the main door. When we entered the room, he walked behind me and touched my back. I first thought it was a friendly gesture to guide me in, but I wondered why he patted my back rather than my husband's. I thought perhaps I was overthinking it. Then, as we walked toward the bathroom, he patted my back again from behind. This felt very intentional and unsettling. In a Muslim-majority country where physical contact between unrelated men and women is generally avoided, his repeated actions felt especially inappropriate. All guests, particularly women, deserve to feel safe and respected. I urge the hotel management to take firm disciplinary action against Mourad and prevent this happening again. I advise other guests to stay cautious. The manager replied here and asked me to email them, which I did. They promised a “thorough internal investigation,” but I’ve received no update on the outcome or any corrective actions. I hope they complete it transparently and make real changes to protect guest safety.

The spa and gym are a real plus, and the whole staff were amazing to us. Everything was sensational, truly perfect. We loved our stay and will definitely be back. Highly recommend when in Douz!