Joanna James
Doha is a fascinating place, and a wonderful family holiday destination. Here are some tips for an educational and fun family vacation.
This unique construction is one of the biggest mosques in Qatar. The architecture is marvellous, with special attention to detail, one can get lost in its artistic splendours with over 90 domes to explore! The mosque can hold over 30,000 people! Non-Muslims are permitted to enter during non-prayer times. Ladies will have to put on an abaya at the female entrance.
Taking kids to a museum is the best way to get them curious about different cultures. At Msheireb Museums, one can find displays of many cultural artefacts. These are spread over four separate buildings. To make it even better admission is free! Another great place to visit is the Museum of Islamic art. It is a beautifully designed building by the famed architect I.M Pei of the famed Louvre. The antiquities on display are diverse and stem from the Islamic world of days gone by.
Go for a delicious meal and shopping at the Souq Waqif. There is quite a good range of restaurants to select from, and the kids will love the layout of a traditional Arabian market. The architecture has a genuine Qatari vibe and a place to shop for souvenirs!
One can spend days exploring the marketplace. Among the main attractions include the falcon souq, gold souq, horse stables, bird souq, a camel pen, and local craftwork. The shops sell many curios, spices, varieties of dates, Oud special incense and much more. In Doha, spa hotels are a popular accommodation option. The likes of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara are among the reputed choices.
The Corniche is a waterfront promenade stretching for around 7 km and a favourite place for the locals to relax. Surrounded by the breezes of the Arabian Gulf, the Corniche should be visited in the early morning or evening to avoid the hot sun. Find several parks for children to play in, with many ice cream spots as well. An evening cruise on a traditional wooden boat is the best way to conclude an evening at the Corniche with the family.
Within an hour's drive away from the city and you can be in the desert. Kids will love the camel rides and dune bashing. It will take around 30 -45 minutes to arrive at Khor Al Adaid. This area is special, as the sea meets Saudi Arabia, and the coastline can be spotted just a few meters away. Children can plunge their feet on the sea or even swim. Try camping on the dessert! Organised tours will arrange the itinerary and look into all the preparations.
Katara Village is the central entertainment and cultural centre in Doha. It is a famous tourist haunt in the city. The whole family can unwind on the stunning promenades, and browse alongside the attractive architecture. Finish the night with a walk on the beach and a nice dinner.
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