Centred around a host of experiences, cultural attractions, and warm hospitality, Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world, says Qatar Tourism. According to the statement, not just easy accessibility from most cities in India, but also a host of activities and attractions for everyone which makes it an ideal destination for vacations.
A budget-friendly destination that provides outstanding service and unique experiences at low or no cost makes it easy and exciting to explore Qatar’s local sights, beaches, parks, and delectable cuisines, says the statement. Here are some unmissable things while exploring the magic of Qatar.
Qatar’s free-of cost musings
The statement says that Katara Cultural Village is Doha’s must- visit destination for culture and entertainment with numerous eateries, a promenade, concert halls, exhibition galleries and running with cycling tracks in the nearby lush landscapes of Katara Hills. Doha’s century old Souq Waqif to the newly developed Msheireb and Education City, each exudes a charm of its own, where the past meets the present in Qatari design and culture.
Basking in the beach
A seven-kilometre stretch of gorgeous promenade overlooking the serene waterfront, the Corniche is a crescent shaped walkway around Doha Bay that visitors can take a boat ride to soak in the vista of the city or walk around the bay to the stunning views of the city’s modern skyline. The Fuwairit Beach is a popular destination for kitesurfers and is home to a hatching site for the endangered Hawksbill Sea Turtles. Closer to the capital is Sealine Beach, in the desert dunes of the south, or Katara Beach, inside Katara Cultural Village within Doha itself.
Picnics at the park
Teeming with lush and verdant parks make Qatar an ideal destination for family outings. Be it the Museum of Islamic Art with the greatest view of the Doha cityscape or the Onaiza Park with a lovely garden section and a winding walking path, as well as the views of the 300-metre Torch Tower can be found in Aspire Park, Qatar has much to offer, says the statement.
Qatari local crafts
In the souqs, or markets of Qatar, friendly haggling is expected to arrive at the right price. There are several stores and stalls at the famous Souq Waqif, as in the Gold Souq showcasing pashmina shawls and scarves, oud wood or oil, dates and spices, exquisite wooden boxes, Dalla Arabian coffee pots, and contemporary jewellery. A cruise in a classic wooden dhow boat, which is parked along the Corniche and offers a tranquil way to view the sunset, can also be negotiated for by the tourists, it adds.
Tasting the local delicacies
The statement says that dining in Qatar offers a wide choice of local and foreign food. At Shay Al Shomous, each menu item costs less than USD 7, so one can sample a variety of authentic Qatari delicacies. Local tea may be bought at Chapati & Karak, a restaurant in Katara Cultural Village, for less than USD 2. This sweet karak tea which hails from India and has now been welcomed by Qatari culture.
Must-try adventure activities
The statement says that along the Corniche, visitors can avail Dhows or traditional sailing boats popular in the Arab world to explore the Doha cityscape. Further, Qatar Desert Safari is a must-try, the excursion includes a whole day of planned fun with stops at the best spots to see the views around. The last stop before heading back to Doha will be the amazing inland sea area, locally called the Khor Al-Adaid, a UNESCO-recognised site which is one of the few places in the world where the sea meets the desert. Skydiving, paratriking, and hot air balloon rides are also available.
It adds that visitors can also go kayaking and explore Al Thakhira’s waterways that flow between clusters of vibrant mangroves, 35-40 km from Doha. Doha Quest is a 32,000 square metre indoor experiential theme park with thrilling rides, media-controlled simulators, virtual reality experiences, and family-friendly attractions, all offering adventure led experiences. The Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park is located at the heart of Salwa beach resort, in the southern region of Qatar near the Saudi Arabian border, featuring a number of exciting rides.
Easy transportation
One of the most viable modes of transportation in Doha is the brand-new metro system. The transport system provides 100 km/h trains, driverless cars and a Gold Class. A trip can be taken for one-way distance (USD 0.55) after obtaining a reusable travel card for (USD 2.75). A comprehensive bus network, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem offer additional options for transportation. In most cases, Uber will only charge USD 7 for a 30-minute (non-surge) ride, adds the statement.