Qatar Magazine | Page 5

DOHA
Museum of Islamic Art Souq Waqif
CITY Oozing confidence and style , dazzling Doha is a world-class city
With a history stretching back millennia , the Qatari capital has gone from humble beginnings as a small port town to today ’ s modern metropolis with a jaw-dropping skyline . Highlights include the offshore manmade island of The Pearl Qatar , Msheireb Downtown which forms the heart of the cultural district , glamorous West Bay , laidback Katara Beach the Venice-inspired Qanat Quartier and the Doha Corniche , a crescentshaped walkway around the Doha Bay .
DESERT Qatar ’ s pristine desert is a playground for adventure
Just an hour ’ s drive from Doha will find you amidst the serene undulating sand dunes of Qatar ’ s desert . The impressive ‘ Inland Sea ’ or Khor Al Adaid , is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can embark on an exhilarating 4x4 desert safari , sandboard over the dunes or , even try your hand at paragliding .
KHOR AL ADAID
Lusail International Circuit
Lusail
Waterfront Promenade Pearl-Qatar
Qanat Quartier Katara
The Gulf
Airport
Banana Island
BEACHES With 350 miles of coastline and almost year-round sunshine , Qatar is the go to place for beach lovers
Soak up Qatar ’ s sun , warm sea and velvety sand at a variety of seaside havens that include familyfriendly sands , luxury private resorts and idyllic islands . For those with a thirst for adventure , Qatar is an ideal location for watersports , including kite surfing , kayaking and scuba diving .
FAMILY FUN If the kids are happy , you ’ re happy !
All ages are sure to squeal with delight with a spot of dune bashing , numerous malls house indoor amusement parks , including Gondolania , Megapolis and Circus Land , as well as bowling alleys , ice skating rinks and indoor playgrounds . For adrenaline-rides and attractions , look no further than Quest , while at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas , you ’ ll find the Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park .
CULTURE Qatar is a heart-stirring treasure trove of vibrant culture
A must-visit is the peerless National Museum of Qatar which sits within a futuristic-looking building in Doha . Discover also a colossal collection of art within the fabulous Museum of Islamic Art , see numerous thought-provoking exhibitions at the Msheireb Museums , while Katara Cultural Village is another spot to delve into Qatari traditions .
KATARA CULTURAL VILLAGE
WILDLIFE , ON LAND & SEA With a variety of unique ecosystems , Qatar ’ s wildlife creates a compelling spectacle for visitors
The harsh desert environment is home to Qatar ’ s national animal , the Arabian Oryx . Falcons are celebrated as the national bird and are undoubtedly a crucial part of the country ’ s rich heritage and culture . The dense mangroves at Al Thakira provide a protected environment and humble migration hubs for birdlife , particularly flamingos between November and April , while the idyllic setting of Fuwairit beach has safe nesting areas for hawksbill turtles . Additionally , Qatar ’ s waters have the world ’ s second largest population of dugongs and , in the summer months , Qatar is a top spot for spying schools of graceful whale sharks .
AL THAKIRA MANGROVES
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR
SHOPPING For those that love to shop , it ’ s easy to splash the cash in Qatar .
Doha ’ s world-class shopping malls ( which number almost 100 ), feature a comprehensive array of high street and designer brands from around the world . Larger malls also boast extensive recreational facilities such as cinemas , restaurants and even indoor theme parks . For a more traditional shopping experience , look no further than the unmissable Souq Waqif , whose atmospheric labyrinth of alleyways beckon with all manner of goods and where bartering is a must .
PLACE VENDÔME
CUISINE Prepare for your taste buds to be wowed by Qatar ’ s cuisine
Constantly evolving , much like the landscape , Qatari cuisine features fragrant spice mixes as well as a subtle blend of influences from Arabia , India and North Africa . However , as home to people from over 100 countries , Qatar is truly multi-cultural and its varied dining scene reflects this rich diversity , so tuck into everything from fine dining to family-style restaurants , casual eateries and cafés .
visit your travel agent or call 08444 937 927 • www . premierholidays . co . uk

REASONS TO VISIT

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