Qatar trip
About Qatar Where the sand meets the sea and where cultural authenticity meets modernity. The small Gulf state of Qatar has recently undergone an epic makeover, with shoppingmalls and outlandish five star hotels in the city and along the beaches, as well as football stadiums (ready for the 2022 World Cup) all springing up along the desert floor. Yet, amongst all the modern skyscrapers and expansive boulevards, the capital Doha maintains its traditional Arabic roots, particularly in the bustling alleys of Souq Waqif where locals come to barter and buy from the maze of small shops or dine at the eclectic mix of eateries. For a glimpse of Qatari heritage, visit the revered birds of the Falcon Souq; check out Al Koot Fort (Doha Fort) or head to the Museum of Islamic Art. At the purpose-built developments of Katara discover impressive theatres, galleries, performance venues, top restaurants and a well-maintained beach. See also the magnificent Doha Waterfront Promenade, which stretches along Doha Bay with enticing eateries and the dhow harbour. Invitingly described as the ‘Arabian Riviera’ the Pearl-Qatar is a man-made island where Mediterranean-style marinas, internationally renowned hotels with private beaches, luxury shopping and dozens of restaurants await you. Just off the coast of Doha, crescent-shaped Banana Island provides an exciting and luxury escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. For something more thrilling, head to the desert for some dune bashing, or visit the impressive Khor Al Adaid, a UNESCO recognised natural reserve. On Qatar’s south western tip is Salwa, a perfect place for all lovers of sun, sea, sand and serenity. It’s where you’ll also find the adrenaline-pumping Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park.
Our itinerary covered as much as possible in 5 days...
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas overnight - perfect for a beach holiday, on site waterpark!
Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels - right in the centre of the Souq Waqif, this is a dry area so no alcohol served. Amazing to see the locals with their Falcon's!
Discover Doha Tour - Doha, Museum of Islamic Art, Doha Corniche, Dhow Harbour, Katara Cultural & Heritage Village , The Pearl ( (??????? Jiwan Restaurant - this restaurant is a must do. the food was delicious and the decor beautiful!
Guided tour of National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) - really interesting museum Guided tour at Souq Waqif - loads of cobbled streets selling everything! Dinner at Parisa Souq Waqif ?????? ???? ?????? - we called this the sparkly restaurant, its was covered in sparkling mosaic tiles.
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara - this island is 25 minutes from Doha by ferry. It has water villas and loads of facilities. It was my favourite place although it is dry!
Discover Mangroves of Qatar Tour - The Al Thakira Mangrove Forest - we kayaked through the Mangroves and watched the sunset which was spectacular.
Dinner at La Mar restaurant InterContinental Doha - lovely restaurant with great views of the Doha skyline. Delicious food and great cocktails.
Guided Tour of Al Shaqab Equestrian Center - very interesting how they look after their horses and how expensive they are!
Al Shaqab Guided tour at Education City, Mosque, National Library, Oxygen Park - Education City, Qatar National Library, Education City, Mosque, Oxygen Park - we saw one of the Fifa World Cup stadiums and the Sports museum was a highlight, has something for everyone. Lunch at Café 34 - overlooking the Education City stadium on the golf course this was a lovely spot for lunch. Desert Safari with dinner at Regency Sealine Camp - Regency Sealine Camp - amazing trip and a must do! one way to see the sunset in the desert. The rooms at the camp were beautiful too.
St Regis Hotel Doha - the service at this property is second to none. The staff are all so friendly. My favourite hotel that we stayed in.
An amazing trip where we saw the diverse locations. The whole country is spotless with very little crime and everyone was so friendly. You have to respect their religion in public places by covering shoulders and knees, however in the hotels it is more relaxed. Alcohol is expensive too.
All in all definitely a place I would love to go back to :)