Many know of Qatar as a global gateway for overseas travel. It is often characterized, or imagined, as a busy transit spot, connecting international destinations. Perhaps at one point you have considered making the most out of your stopover—with a quick visit to whatever is the most accessible from the airport.
But the thing is—you are missing out on so much because of this. The truth is, Qatar is more than just a layover. It is one of the safest countries in the world and offers classic Arabian hospitality on top of the varied things to do and see.
Qatar group tours are a marriage of modern and traditional Arabic experiences.
So what are you waiting for?
Qatar Highlights and Features
1. Souq Waqif
If you really wish to get a good sense of Qatar, it always pays to start in its “standing market.” Doha’s Souq Waqif has been designed to recreate the market atmosphere from many years ago. Today, it is a maze of shops selling fabric, spices, household goods, sweets, local art, and of course souvenirs. The whole experience is immersive, especially as you get to see up close tailors and wood carvers creating their products on the spot. Make this stop in your Qatar photography adventure to capture the colors of the bustling market—an appropriate microcosm for the vibrant culture of the country. Then, head over to one of the many restaurants or shisha lounges nearby to unwind.
2. Museum of Islamic Art
To avoid the crowds, we want to skip on the “touristy” stops. However, you should not forget this in your list of Qatar travel destinations. Designed by architect I.M. Pei, the Museum of Islamic Art was deliberately built on a standalone island to prevent buildings from obstructing it. What you see now is a majestic structure floating on water. The museum houses artifacts such as calligraphy, jewelry, and textiles, with some dating from the 7th to 19th century. After you get a load of the exhibitions inside, go to the outdoor terrace on the top floor where you will be greeted by the stunning views of Doha. It is the perfect spot to take an unobstructed photo of this captivating city.
3. Al Thakira Mangroves
3. Al Thakira MangrovesIt seems rather odd—to be seeking for greenery in the middle of a vast desert. But this is exactly the charm of Al Thakira Mangroves. It provides a good contrast from the beige, sandy vastness throughout. This particular hotspot is a grand area of greenery and water, complete with its own ecosystem. Bird watchers will enjoy this particular attraction even more, with herons and flamingos migrating to this area every year. We recommend renting a kayak to fully explore the mangroves. Who would have thought you would get to do this in Qatar?
The above are just but a few (really, few) of the many things you can do or experience in Qatar. Like what we said earlier, this Arab country is the perfect mix of modern and traditional. It is a lot like living in the best of both worlds.
Next time you think of vacationing somewhere, perhaps signing up for Qatar group tours is the best choice.
