Joanna James
Al Wakrah might not pop up when visiting Qatar comes up, but it is equally fun as any other city in the country, with much fewer crowds. Here's what you can do when in Al Wakrah!
Thanks to the diverse and multicultural population of Al Wakrah, the place is a food and shopping lover's dream come true. Al Wakrah Souq is the place for you to drop in, especially if you are staying at Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli, which is one of the best hotels in Qatar. Whether one is looking for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, Thai, Korean, Italian, Indian or American dishes, the chances of finding what one's heart desires on the city's restaurant menus are quite high. Spices and gold are must-explore items at this souq too.
World-class shopping malls and retail opportunities are another reason why large numbers of visitors from around the globe head to Qatar. When it comes to high-end malls and department stores, the choices are seemingly endless. Purchasing branded goods and fashion labels from around the world is all in a day's shopping spree for tourists based in Al Wakrah. The Mall is no less impressive although the venue is the oldest of the city's shopping complexes as the first mall to be established in Al Wakrah.
Home to some of the Middle East's finest cultural and art institutions, culture buffs should visit the many illustrious malls scattered around the city. As one of the most popular attractions in the city, the Museum of Islamic Art was designed by none other than I. M. Pei, the architect behind the Louvre Pyramid. The venue is located on its own island. Showcasing an impressive collection of textiles, statues, artwork, ceramics, and ancient manuscripts, the museum is spread out over a whopping 4000 square metres.
As any global city and tourist hub, this Qatari municipal capital is also full of heritage sites that hark back to the opulence of the country's history. The key historical points of interest are located just above this city and in Doha. The Al Koot Fort dates back to 1880. The Ottoman-era fort not only served as a defence mechanism but was also used as the country's ethnographic museum. Also lined with exciting recreational and leisure options, the city is the perfect playground for the young and the old. The Al Wakrah Public Garden has gorgeous views of the city's skyline and the ocean. With facilities for jogging and more fitness activities, the venue is a hotbed of activity all day long. You must especially visit the place if you are in Al Wakrah with the young ones.
Try your hand at fishing while in Al Wakrah this holiday. Fishing is a historical thing to do at this port, and while you are at it, you will surely feel as if time stood still, as you take in the splendid views around you.
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.
