Going To Qatar For The World Cup? Check Out These Other Must-See Attractions

In case you are fortunate sufficient to be going to Qatar for the World Cup in November, you’re most likely targeted on occasion tickets, discovering the perfect inns and navigating the placement of these all essential “Fan Zones.” Nevertheless, Doha additionally has a number of different superb sights. Under are a few of my favorites:

For historical past and structure followers–The Nationwide Museum of Qatar

Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, Qatar’s Nationwide Museum of Historical past is a stunningly lovely constructing, designed to evoke the form of the desert rose. As soon as inside, guests can expertise quite a few interactive shows that designate Qatar’s historical past from prehistoric instances to the trendy day. Quite a few movies are displayed all through the museum so as to add perspective to the historical past of Qatar and its individuals. After a morning strolling by means of the museum, it is a superb thought to cease by Jiwan, the museum’s terrific restaurant the place you’ll be able to expertise a contemporary tackle Arabic classics. Some favorites embrace beef brief ribs, lamb shoulder with mint and fennel and Omani rock lobster with quinoa.

For journey seekers–A desert safari

Within the midst of the glowing skyscrapers, it could be straightforward to neglect that Doha sits in the course of the desert. Why not reap the benefits of that truth and ebook a desert safari. Most of those half day excursions embrace a fast cease for a camel experience (you recognize that may be a photo-op you must have) after which proceed to the primary occasion. Your information will drive you thru the gorgeous dunes for an adrenaline-fueled experience, also called dune bashing. Be ready for an nearly vertical drop and a number of other different tips. My favourite excursions finish at one of many Arabian Sea stops the place you’ll be able to cool off with a swim, adopted by and revel in tea and snacks. In case you actually love the desert, you may as well prepare an in a single day tenting journey.

For spa lovers–Zulal Wellness Resort

After an extended flight or a day watching a disturbing soccer match, you might must calm down within the newly opened Zulal Wellness Resort. Situated nearly an hour from Doha, Zulal is a spectacular retreat that blends conventional Arabic and Islamic drugs with a holistic philosophy developed by Thailand’s Chiva-Som. Zulal Serenity is the adult-only a part of the power, however as an uncommon and welcome twist, Zulal additionally welcomes households in a separate part, Zulal Discovery. Guests can spend the day, however it’s superb to plan for a couple of nights so you’ll be able to get pleasure from the whole lot the property has to supply. Actions vary from yoga to seashore volleyball and coverings embrace therapeutic massage, acupuncture and even a camel milk slimming physique masks. Eating is one other spotlight and meals concentrate on wholesome consuming and native produce, all fantastically introduced.

For many who love to buy native–Souq Waqif

For a conventional procuring and cultural expertise, Souq Waqif is a must-visit vacation spot. One of the best time to cease by is early night when households come out to benefit from the carnival-like environment full with small rides and quite a few ice-cream pop-ups. The Souq is the best place to select up native souvenirs and there are quite a few stalls promoting gold, fragrance, clothes and spices. The pet part has falcons, rabbits and birds and you’ll even decide up an Arabian horse. That is additionally the place to attempt among the native delicacies in a extra informal environment. You possibly can seize a samosa or a candy dumpling to eat on the go or sit down for a conventional rice dish of makjboos, a slow-cooked meat stew generally known as fahsa or take pleasure in a candy plate of baklava.