Winter Escape
TDT | Manama
Email: ashen@newsofbahrain.com
Qatar is an enchanting winter destination that attracts thousands of tourists from around the world w ith its stunning landscapes and cool climate. During my recent visit, I was so captivated by the modern beauty and vibrant atmosphere that it almost made me want to skip European tours altogether. The fusion of modernity and tradition in Qatar truly stole my heart.
One of the most iconic and must-visit spots in Qatar is Katara, a cultural village that took my breath away. It’s easy to find information online, but walking through the beautifully air-conditioned spaces of Katara, designed to reflect natural air flow, was an experience I’ll never forget.
With luxurious coffee shops from Italy, Colombia, and Russia, and a high-end supermarket called Snan, Katara is a fusion of luxury and cultural charm. One interesting fact: the most expensive item in Snan is a bottle of Italian vinegar, priced at a stunning $1,000 (BD 377).
Katara, which opened in 2010, spans 5,000 square meters. It’s renowned for its horse and falcon shows, particularly popular in December. The Katara Mosque, designed by Turkey’s Zeynep Fadilloglu, stands out with its blue and gold Persian and Turkish tilework, a beautiful contrast to the surrounding buildings.
The Pigeon Towers nearby, designed to protect pigeons from falcons, are unique; surprisingly, they don’t emit any odor, even though there are three doors to collect pigeon waste. As I explored the Katara Amphitheatre, I was amazed by its Italian-inspired architecture, blending classical Greek style with Islamic influences. The amphitheatre, which can hold up to 5,000 spectators, offers stunning views of the sea and cultural village.
On Day two, we embarked on a scenic two-hour drive to Ras Abrouq, where we stayed at the luxurious Habitas Resort, located at the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve. The journey was awe-inspiring, with limestone dunes, tranquil waters, and a popular parasailing sport amidst mesmerizing sunsets. The resort offers daily safari tours and an extravagant Friday BBQ. The villas start at around QR 2,700 (BD 270) per night, with a special suite for royal events priced at QR 42,000 (BD 4,200).
One of the highlights of the trip was a coffee workshop hosted by Austin, the bar supervisor and master mixologist, who taught us how to make Syphon coffee with a premium taste. His expertise turned this coffee experience into something extraordinary.
In the evening, we attended Disney on Ice, a mesmerizing show featuring all your favorite Disney characters. The performance, a perfect blend of music, acting, and skating, kept me captivated from start to finish. This is a must-see for anyone visiting Qatar with family.
Day three was dedicated to exploring the history of Qatar at the Qatar National Museum, opened in 2019. The museum’s design, inspired by the desert rose, takes you through Qatar’s history from ancient times to the discovery of natural gas. One fascinating exhibit was the Pearl Carpet, a masterpiece embroidered with 1.5 million Basra pearls, diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies. This carpet was commissioned in the 19th century and is an incredible example of the Gulf’s pearling industry.
The museum also showcases the Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim, built in 1906. It was once the seat of government and residence of the ruler of Doha, and today it stands as one of the most significant cultural heritage sites in the city.
The Pearl-Qatar is another iconic spot, a massive urban development with distinct architectural precincts shaped like a seahorse. This area, with its 25,000 residential units and 360 retail and dining outlets, draws millions of visitors each year. The Qanat Quartier, a section of the Pearl, is particularly charming, with its Venetian-inspired canals, pedestrian squares, and boutique-style stores. It truly feels like a Mediterranean village, right in the heart of Qatar.
Another highlight was our visit to Al Gewan Island, known for its one-kilometer-long crystal road, a breathtaking sight that you simply have to experience in person.
For a lavish dinner, we headed to Al Maha Island and dined at Em Sherif, a restaurant offering authentic Arabian cuisine with a stunning view of Qatar’s skyline.
Lastly, don’t miss a visit to Souq Waqif, a traditional market where you can buy souvenirs, spices, clothes, and dine at a variety of restaurants. Just a kilometer away, take the free tram for a 20-minute ride around the city to explore different coffee shops, including the charming Qinwan, where I had a date coffee paired with a honey cake – the perfect way to end a day of exploration.
Qatar offers an unforgettable experience for families, blending rich culture, modern luxury, and unique attractions that make it a perfect winter getaway.
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