CULTURAL
Museum of Islamic Arts - is located on the south-end of the Corniche. Housed in a building designed by I.M. Pei, the museum houses artifacts from Muslim dynasties all over Asia, Africa and Europe. Also, there are items from the Al Thani dynasty, as well as art from all parts of the Middle East. Al Koot Fort - Built in 1880, during the Ottoman period, this big white fort is located in what is now the parking lot of Souq Waqif. At the time it was built, however, the fort was located on the out-skirts of the city. Though the fort was formerly used as an ethnographic museum, the building is now currently closed, though still a popular place to take photos. Souq Waqif - Another place that is very worth visiting is Souq Waqif, the renovated Arabic market quarter. You can easily wander around the maze-like corridors for hours. The Souq is organized more or less by what is sold. There is a section of spice shops, another of textiles, and even a quarter where they sell falcons. Also look for places to buy souvenirs, sit down to smoke a Sheesha, or enjoy food at one of the restaurants bordering it. Katara Cultural Village - serves as a guardian to the heritage and traditions of Qatar and endeavours to spread awareness about the importance of every culture and civilization and as such, Katara hosts international, regional and local festivals, workshops, performances and exhibitions. Slight remote place from the normal Doha busy streets, hence you need a vehicle or taxi to go there, but once you reach there, you will feel it is worth being there. The Pearl - a phased mixed-use development comprising 10 distinct, themed districts that include beachfront villas, elegant town homes, luxury apartments, marinas, and upscale retail and restaurants all situated on a multibillion dollar man-made island encompassing 985 acres (400 hec-tares) of reclaimed land just off the. It is Qatar’s first international luxury residential development that offers international investors freehold title ownership. |
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MALLS
Villaggio is one of Doha's newest malls, located near the Aspire Centre. The mall is designed to look like Venice in terms of architecture. The mall is home to many western stores, as well as a large Carrefour. The food court is home to several West-ern-style fast food restaurants, as well as several sit-down options. For entertainment, there is currently a long canal offering gondola rides, an ice-skating rink and a large multiplex theater.
City Centre is the largest shopping centre in Qatar. Located in West Bay, it offers a fantastic shopping experience. For entertainment there is a large multiplex theatre and an indoor ice skating rink. There are several eating options including two food courts as well as several sit-down restaurants. Finally, the mall is home to a large Carrefour supermarket. Hyatt Plaza is located near Aspire and Villaggio. This shopping mall is comparatively smaller than others, but as a plus it is always less crowded. There is a good sized food court and a large children's play land called "Jungle Zone." Landmark Shopping Mall focuses mostly on clothing, jewellery, and cosmetics. There is also a Carrefour market for groceries and a small Cinema. It is located in the northern suburbs, not far from the school. Other Malls:
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Note: After the tragic fire at Villagio in June 2012, all Malls in Qatar are going through a rigorous safety check to insure complete compliance with international and local safety standards.
PARKS
Doha is home to many lush green areas and parks, that offer recreation and relaxation.
Doha is home to many lush green areas and parks, that offer recreation and relaxation.
Dahl Al Hammam Park
Location: Off Arab League and Al Markhiya Streets This one has the usual verdant fields, trees and play structures but look down, look way down, and you’ll find why we love it. There are limestone caverns featuring an underground freshwater lake and tunnels, making this perhaps one of the only places in the country where you can get close to spelunking. Without driving out to the desert, you can get a touch of natural beauty and wonder, if green grass and trees weren’t enough for you. Aspire Park Location: Across from Villaggio Mall, by Aspire Tower This sprawling green wonderland has a little something for everyone, and is crawling with people on weekends and evenings, taking in the great outdoors. It’s also dotted with playground equipment, shade shelters, a running and walking trail and fountains. Yet that’s not why we go there: we go there for the huge sprawl of rolling green hills, thick grass and positively lush trees. Tip: This is the spot for weekend picnics, but arrive early! It’s a popular destination, if you want one of the prime spots under a tree, you’ll have to claim it early. Museum of Islamic Art Park Location: By Museum of Islamic Art Located around the Museum of Islamic Art, it couldn't get much more pristine and beautiful: with the gorgeous museum to one side of you, and the sea heading out in the other, it’s a great spot to read a book, catch some sun, and relax just off the Corniche. Tip: Don’t miss the statue garden! It’s about a kilometer walk to get along to the end of the pier, but very worth it for the seaside art. Bring the kids too: there’s no reason you can’t couple a park stop with a museum visit. Fun and educational! |