Joanna James
Doha is the kind of holiday destination, which takes pride in making its visitors feel more than welcome. How about a gold-plated bathroom or your very own pet falcon? Sounds exotic? Do read on!
The shopping in Doha is out of this world; that's right it's the quintessential destination for all things retail. There is no better place to duck into than the huge air-conditioned malls offering more than a sanctuary from the heat. Retail therapy is taken very seriously in Doha, which embraces the policy of 'bigger is better'; well justified by the likes of Villaggio Mall, complete with an indoor canal, gondolas and Olympic sized skating rink. Oh, and the shopping is even more fabulous! Most of the luxury hotels in Doha offer easy access to these gargantuan malls, for easy shopping.
That's right folks, shopping does not get any more exotic, than heading out to get your own falcon. On the practical side though, one cannot stuff a bought falcon in their luggage, hence, the term to 'buy' may have to be changed to 'experience' and it is quite awesome. Almost 80% of Qatar's male population own a falcon which like a fast car, does not come cheap. A visit to the Souq Waqif Falcon Market will help you understand just how important the birds are to the Qatari. Besides, even if you are not in the market for a falcon, the Souq, home to such accommodation options as Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, is one place you should explore; here you can experience traditional Arabic markets dealing with textiles, gold, spices, shoes and other exotic products.
Camel racing is a big attraction in Doha, so popular and important, that it is better known as the sport of sheikhs. Check out the TV channels from your Doha hotel suite and you will find a channel dedicated to camel racing. Catch it live on TV or drive 40 minutes out to the Al-Shahaniya racing track and you can mingle with the locals and cheer for the racing camels. February to November is camel racing season.
While the Palm Jumeirah sits in Dubai, Doha is home to the Pearl; a manmade island of 400 hectares, deemed a playground for the rich. The place considered one of the city's most exclusive addresses, contains, a beach, luxury villas and classy restaurants. Of course, you don't need a huge bank balance to visit the place, a walk along the boardwalk and stop for coffee at one of the sunny cafes are all totally affordable, even if you are not a high-roller.
Now comes those gold edged bathrooms, and crystal chandeliers dangling in the suites. Certain hotels in Doha are more than luxurious; some offer guests the ultimate millionaire experience from marbled bathrooms, inlaid with 18 karat gold to a private beach or tropical garden. Indulgence is key, and no one does it better than Doha luxury hotels.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
