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Qatar is wonderfully characterised by ultramodern architecture, oil wealth, arid deserts and a long Persian Gulf shoreline of beaches. There are mangrove forests to hunt through and towering dunes to bash in for outdoor enthusiasts, while those seeking for calmer moments can get inspiration in the museums or stroll around the historic Souq Waqif. To top it all off, Qatar boasts year-round sunshine, so you’ll never have to worry about your travel plans getting dashed by bad weather.
Doha is the main gateway to Qatar for cruising, the country’s elegant capital – where luxury buildings soar to the skies and dominate the stunning skyline. The fast-developing capital grew from a sleepy fishing and pearling town into a dazzling city with a mix of strikingly modern architecture and classical culture. Travel back-in-time to the Al-Zubara Fortress & Museum and be wowed by the 318-metre-tall Aspire Tower – the tallest structure in Doha. Off the shore of mainland Doha, you’ll reach the magnificent man-made Pearl Island. For culture vultures, the National Museum of Qatar offers a fascinating insight into the country’s rich heritage and culture, and exploring the Katara Cultural Village will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the past while embracing the present!
With so much to explore and experience, it’s easy to see why a Qatar cruise is one of the most desired cruises in the world…
Pearl Island is one of the city’s greatest engineering feats – a prestigious man-made island and residential area that sits on reclaimed land. This cutting-edge resort is bursting with lavish hotels, quaint coffee shops, fine-dining restaurants and Mediterranean-inspired marinas. It has been dubbed as the 'Arabian Riviera’ for its glitz and glamour, as well as the luxurious lifestyle and high-end shopping scene.
The historic Souq Waqif, also known as the ‘standing market,’ is a place steeped with Old-World charm and echoes a sense of days gone by. Stroll through the maze of shops selling handcrafted jewellery, fabric, spices, sweets, household items, souvenirs and art. Get ready to haggle and bargain for the best prices to complete your experience! This marketplace also has traditional eateries and upscale restaurants, where you can get a taste of authentic qatar cuisine and world flavours!
Aspire Park is one of the largest parks in Doha, perfect for picnics and jogging. This 88-hectare area is filled with landscaped lawns, recreational and fitness spaces, cafes and eateries and a stunning lake as a centrepiece – the only artificial lake in the city. The lush park is also one of the best vistas for viewing the Aspire Tower – the tallest skyscraper in Doha. Pop into the Villaggio Mall, where you can satisfy your shopping and entertainment needs. Ride a gondola while you’re at it!
Qatar’s sand dunes are high and steep, making the drive from the desert to the sea an exhilarating adventure and spectacular sight! Whilst here, be sure not to miss dune bashing across the desert landscapes that stretch to the ends of the peninsula – seas of golden dunes once traversed by Bedouin nomads on camels. Those who are looking for more sedate experiences can opt to rent a luxury tent or pitch up your own and gaze at the starry skies at night!
Exploring the Al Zubara Fort and the surrounding archaeological works is one of the best ways to glimpse into Qatar’s cultural history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a premier archeological site, overlooking a once-thriving pearling and trading town nearby that embodies a best-preserved example of 18th and 19th-century Gulf merchant towns. The historic fort’s features a rectangular structure with three circular towers on the corners. History buffs will love viewing the artefacts, artworks and other valuable archaeological discoveries stored in the ancient rooms.
Doha is home to a wide selection of fascinating museums to explore, so why not spend your day leisurely as you hop from one museum to another? The National Museum of Qatar is not just a museum but also a monumental work of architecture – with a state-of-the-art exterior welcoming guests. Another architectural treasure in the capital is the Museum of Islamic Art, carrying a substantial collection of art pieces that showcase Islamic heritage. Other interesting museums that you can include in your itinerary are Museum of Illusions Doha, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art and 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum.
The best time to go on a Qatar cruise is from October through April when the temperatures are mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Qatar starts to get cold in November, allowing travellers to roam around under pleasant weather. If you plan to hit the beaches, note that it’s usually too cold for a dip from December to February.
Generally, Qatar has a desert climate with long summers and intense dry heat. Temperatures may rise up to 45 degrees during summer, from May to September, while winter temperatures can go as low as 5 degrees, between November to February. It’s better to time your trip in winter for cooler and drier weather.
Contrary to the ultramodern spirit of Qatar, it’s a very conservative Muslim country that always remains true to its cultural values. Display of affection and drinking aren’t allowed in public. Swearing or the expression of any kind of obscenity should also be avoided. For clothes, it must always be kept modest by covering the shoulders and knees at all times when in public. Women are encouraged to wear loose and non-revealing clothes, except when spending time on the beach. It’ll be helpful to carry a pashmina scarf to cover up when entering religious sites.
Doha packs a punch of sights to see and things to do, including the National Museum of Qatar, Corniche, Museum of Islamic Art, Souk Waqif, Aspire Tower and Pearl Island.
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