Unmissable Qatar Experiences
The Middle East- Qatar
Qatar
A land of hidden depths and exhilarating contrasts
One of the world’ s wealthiest countries, compact Qatar boasts a rich bounty of stunning natural landscapes, beautiful beaches and epic manmade attractions, so little wonder it’ s becoming one of the Gulf’ s most sought-after holiday destinations. The capital, Doha, is hyper-modern and super sleek with an ever-evolving skyline of ambitious architecture, sumptuous five star hotels, glistening malls, a Formula 1 race track at Lusail and amazing artificial islands. Yet, amongst the modernity and expansive boulevards, its traditional Arabic roots are still evident, particularly in the vibrant Souq Waqif. For further insights to Qatari heritage, visit the well-preserved Al Koot Fort( Doha Fort), the National Museum of Qatar or the vast collection within the Museum of Islamic Art. Purpose-built Katara impresses with theatres, galleries, performance venues, top restaurants and a well-maintained beach, while at the magnificent Doha Waterfront Promenade discover enticing eateries and the dhow harbour. See also the Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island with Mediterranean-style marinas, premium hotels with private beaches, luxury shopping and dozens of culinary treats; the Venice-inspired Qanat Quartier with its numerous Instagram-worthy vistas; Meryal Waterpark in Lusail lures with an exciting 45 rides and 52 slides; experience one of nature’ s wonders with an excursion to see whale sharks( mid Junemid September); and just off Doha’ s coast, aptly-named Banana Island provides an exciting luxury escape. Despite much of Qatar being carpeted in desert, wildlife is abundant, particularly in the impressive Khor Al Adaid, a UNESCO recognised natural reserve, and top spot for thrilling 4WD dune bashing. Al Thakira’ s vast mangrove systems, which is a favourite resting spot for flamingos, can be explored by stand up paddleboard or kayak, whilst keeping watch for a variety of birdlife. On Qatar’ s south western tip is Salwa, a perfect place for all lovers of sun, sea, sand and serenity, as well as the adrenaline-pumping Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park. On Qatar’ s northern tip, Kite Beach attracts with a pristine shoreline and perfect kite surfing conditions.
QATAR
7
• Salwa
Khor al Adaid •
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Fuwairit •
Kite Beach
• Al Thakira Mangroves
6 • • Lusail
Doha
1 Al Najada Doha 2 Le Meridien City Centre
3 Al Messila, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha
4 InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa
9 Pearl-Qatar • • Qanat Quartier
Katara • 4
The Gulf
2 3
8
• Museum of Islamic Art • Souq Waqif •
Banana Island
1 5
Airport •
DOHA
5 Sharq Village & Spa 6 Waldorf Astoria Lusail 7 Hilton Salwa Beach Resort 8 Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara 9 The Ritz-Carlton, Doha
Getting there: Non-stop flights from the UK to Doha take about 7 hours. Private transfers are included.
Best time to go: The dry, subtropical desert climate brings pretty much year-round sunshine so it’ s perfect whatever the season. Winters( December to February) are very mild, with highs around 22-25 º C and scarce rainfall, while summer temperatures usually rise above 40 º C, and this is when the best deals can be found.
Pearl-Qatar
Unmissable Qatar Experiences
Prices are per person. Unless shown excursions are on a shared basis, most are available privately at a supplement, see page 7.
Discover Doha from £ 35
NEW
During this four hour tour, experience Doha’ s unique heritage, storied history and see some of its most popular attractions, including Katara Cultural Village, The Pearl, Dhow Harbour, the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif.
Discover Whale Sharks from £ 175 NEW
This one of a kind adventure allows you to witness one of the world’ s largest gatherings of whale sharks( mid Jun-mid Sep). Look forward to an unforgettable close-up encounter as these magnificent creatures breach the surface to feed.
see page 7
PRIVATE TOUR
Discover Meryal Waterpark from £ 59 NEW
Splash into a world of excitement at Meryal Waterpark which spreads over 6 acres and is packed with 53 slides and numerous other attractions. It’ s sure to be a fun day in the sun!
188 The Middle East
Discover the Desert & Inland Sea from £ 99 NEW
Join a qualified desert drive for one-of-a-kind adventure to take in the magnificent desert landscape, including the towering Sheraton Dune, before witnessing the stunning azure waters of the Inland Sea.
Discover Doha by Air from £ 179
For a fantastic view of Doha, hop aboard a Cessna 208 Caravan aircraft for a 45 minute aerial adventure. Fly over the city’ s most iconic sites, marvel at the skyline and also marvel at the natural beauty of the Al Thakira Mangrove Forest.
prices & offers change constantly- call for today’ s best available deals!