Joanna James
The pearling and fishing days of Doha might be long gone, but the city hasn't lost a bit of its old-world charm to its developments. Keeping history alive among ritzy skyscrapers, the fascinating mix of old and new attractions in Doha is sure to leave you and its droves of tourists enthralled.
Swanky superyacht moored-marinas, Mediterranean-style edifices and a wealth of lavish entertainment options welcome you to the "Arabian Riviera of Qatar", the Pearl-Qatar, where luxury lives in abundance, reaching new heights of opulence day after day. A man-made island set off the coast of Doha's finest West Bay District, the Pearl-Qatar sits on a former pearl diving site, hence the name, "The Pearl-Qatar". Make your way to the 4 square kilometre world drenched in extravagance to experience the epitome of affluent living in Qatar.
Fronting the stunning Doha Bay, overlooking the serene waterfront, the seven-kilometre promenade of the stunning Doha Corniche presents an oasis of serenity right in the heart of the bustling Doha metropolis. As the sun goes down and the skies begin to take a profusion of yellowish-orange shades, hit the corniche to indulge in a relaxing late-afternoon stroll while treating your eyes to the magnificent views of the harboured traditional dhows and Doha's renowned sparkling cityscape. Wallow in a moment of peace and calm while the buzzing vibe of the city revolves around your tranquil bubble.
A traditional Bedouin-style marketplace with modern skyscrapers soaring in the backdrop, Souq Waqif is the perfect anachronism that proves the city's preservation of its old-world charm beneath its glimmering futuristic skyline. The vibrant trading hub comes to life in an establishment that wears a 20th-century Qatari architectural style, immersing you in an aura of the bygone Bedouin era. Wander the atmospheric scene and pick traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, or souvenirs to take back home. Vacationing tourists could also find some of the finest hotel apartments in Qatar in the vicinity, such as Al Najada Doha Hotel Apartments by Oaks.
Nestled at the southern end of the gorgeous Doha Corniche, on its own purpose-built island, the Museum of Islamic Art makes for a spellbinding treat for your eyes, both on the inside and outside. Home to the largest collection of Islamic art in the world with roots embedded in three different continents, MIA is, without a doubt, one of Doha's crown jewels.
Art buff or not, Katara Cultural Village is a must-have on your Doha itinerary. A central amphitheatre, museum, art galleries and a clutch of theatres and performances venues invite you to a waterfront quarter drenched in a delightful old-world charm, soaking you in a dose of Doha's rich art and entertainment culture.
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.
