How to plan a perfect trip to Doha
For the ultimate vacation!
Doha, the capital city of Qatar, is a common transit hub between East and West. Lately, it has become a desirable travel destination, renowned for some beautiful structures and art. Below are some tips to plan a vacation in this bustling capital between the Arabian Gulf and the desert.
Best time to visit
It's always sunny in Doha, with the highest rainfall of only three inches a year. However, occasionally heavy showers occur during the winter months. The most suitable time is between October and late April. At this time, though it's sunny the temperatures are modest. Even in the chillier months of December and January, the temperatures seldom fall below 57 degrees Fahrenheit. However, in the summer months, it always hits 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
Make a note of Ramadan as you make plans. As the dates change each year. During the Holy Month, it is prohibited to consume food and beverages in public from sunrise to sunset. Furthermore, most restaurants and cafes, even in hotels will be shut.
To get around
The best means of transport is to a hire car or a taxi. All the reputed car hire companies maintain kiosks at the airport, whilst Karwa taxis are plentiful and affordable. From the airport, the meter starts at 20 Qatari riyals, and 4 Qatari riyals at other locations. There is an addition of 1.2 to 1.8 Qatari riyals per kilometre. It depends on the time as well.
Public buses can also be a good option, they are air-conditioned and spotless and run on a schedule. However, the service can be a little uncoordinated. A Karwa Smart Card is necessary to purchase bus tickets.
Culture and customs
The Qataris dress modestly and appreciate when visitors pay respect to their culture and traditions. Women are not required to dress an abaya or have to conceal their heads, but it is recommended that women dress to cover their shoulders and dress below the knees. Men should also refrain from wearing shorts in public. On the beach, however, one can wear swimsuits.
Places of interest
Abdul Wahaab Shaikh Mosque
The grand mosque is one of the biggest mosques in Qatar. The construction is superb, with so much care given to detail, one can get easily immersed in its beauty. lost in its artistry. There are over 90 domes to see, and the mosque can hold over 30,000 people in one go!
Msheireb Museums
The museum is found in the cultural capital of Doha. It is a selection of museums representing many cultural artefacts and spread across four separate buildings.
Souq Waqif
It is a traditional Arabian marketplace with many open-air stalls lined in conventional architecture and style. The market character bursts with incense, spices and shisha. Find Middle Eastern lamps, Bedouin blankets, and jewellery.
Museum of Islamic Art
Situated at the Doha Corniche it is just 20 minutes from the Souq.
This museum has the most extensive collection of Islamic art from the world. The building architecture is of breath-taking design as well.
Khor Al Adaid
In just one hour’s drive away, you can be in the desert and spend the day with camels and dunes. This region is where the ocean meets Saudi Arabia, the coastline is seen just meters away!
Katara Village
It is Doha’s main recreation and cultural hub and is a loved tourist spot in the city.
The Pearl Qatar
Named the Arabian Riviera, the island is a man-made construction with valuable real estate and high-end shopping stores.
Places to stay
Doha is a rich city, so you will come across many 5 Star Hotels in Doha. From the likes of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, there are more mid-range options available as well.
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