Stunning Qatar - A must for a short break or stop over.

Qatar is the 2nd safest country in the world and the 4th richest. It is drenched in culture, magnificent buildings, sculptures, shopping malls to die for, as well as out of this world hotels offering the finest hospitality, amenities, sun drenched pools and private beaches. The weather is hot ( at times humid ) but the hotels are well air conditioned.

We had the pleasure of staying 4 nights at the Waldorf Astoria Lusial, 5 miles from the city of Doha. We had the best hospitality courtesy of this years ITT conference.

I would highly recommend either a few nights stop over in Doha or even a short break as the flight is just short of 7 hours and there is so much to see and do.

We took the Dune Bashing excursion, a must for anyone travelling to Qatar. A fabulous day out starting with a drive around Doha taking in the sights, amazing sculptures and buildings, including The Emir’s Palace where we witnessed the changing of the guard (but they have Camels not horses) Back to Dune bashing, so after pulling into the petrol station ( where Haribo was only 80p or so a bag ) the drivers deflated the tyres of the jeeps, as we accessed the dunes for what can only be described as a thrill seeking, crazy, laugh a minute experience. 80mph over the sand dunes, falling down steep hills before taking a few minutes to get your breathe back as they take you to the coast where you can see Saudi Arabia. such an amazing day!

We also went to the Regency Sea-line Camp. A remote, stunning place where we stopped for lunch and a bit of relaxation. The camp offers rooms, pods and amazing hospitality where on an evening turns into a relaxed spot with open fires as you enjoy your favourite drink under the stars. Such a peaceful and beautiful spot.

Whilst in Qatar we took a trip to the Katara cultural village, where we had the pleasure of visiting the Katara Masjid mosque, to be dressed head to toe in an abaya (traditionally worn robe) by the local ladies. We then headed to Souk Waqif where we had a stunning lunch at Parisa, check out the photos to see how stunning this restaurant was. After a stunning lunch, we went on the see the 974 stadium where the World Cup was played last year, as well as the impressive Katara towers, home to the Raffles hotel Doha and the Fairmount Doha. We also visited Hamad cruise port and a very elegant Fish market.

Overall my experience of Doha, Qatar was one I will not forget and I will highly recommend it to clients for short breaks and stop overs.