It’s Time You Went To Qatar

The following post has been re-published with permission from the The Happy Travellers, originally titled, “Quick Visit to Qatar.” Check out their blog here, or connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

All photos are owned by The Happy Travellers.

What comes to your mind when you think of Qatar? Opulence? Royalty? Sheikha Moza Style? Oil and Gas? Qatar Airways? FIFA 2022? Desert Safari? Heritage Village? Souq Waqif? Corniche? Indeed, Qatar has a lot to offer. After all, it is the wealthiest country per capita in the world!

We spent 3 days in this rich country and we loved every minute of it. We stayed at Mövenpick Doha, a charming hotel which is pleasant walking distance to Souq Waqif and Islamic Art Museum, and less than an hour drive to man made coastal island called Pearl. The rate that was given to us was inclusive of daily buffet breakfast for two, free internet connection and unlimited use of all hotel facilities.

The first place that we went to when we arrived in Doha was Villaggio Mall. For a country that can hit 45 degree celsius in the summer, the mall is the best place to go and spend time relaxing in an air-conditioned comfort. Villaggio Mall is similar to the shopping strip of The Venetian Hotel, only a little smaller and less-intricate design. From one side of the mall, there is a good spot to take a snapshot of the Aspire Tower, the tallest tower in Qatar as of now.

On our second day, we had a wonderful catch up with our friend who’s now with Qatar Airways. She took us to Pearl and it became an instant favorite. With lots of high-end shops, cozy cafes and restaurants along the Pearl marina, it’s a perfect place to chitchat with friends and relax the day away.

On our 3rd day and last day, we went to Souq Waqif, a century old marketplace noted for selling traditional handicrafts, garments and spices, and regular displays of folk dance and music. Of course, we didn’t go home without purchasing souvenirs for ourselves.