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Jun 11, 2018 • 4 min read
Five years ago, iBestTravel Local Polly Byles followed her heart to join the man she loves in the Middle East. She didn’t know a great deal about the tiny peninsula country of Qatar before making the leap to move there, but its capital, Doha, rapidly became a city that she speaks about with affection because of its year-round sunshine, safe and luxurious lifestyle, and as the place that her growing family now calls home.
When I Have Friends in Town
Our first stop is always the Museum of Islamic Art. Not only is this the most interesting museum in the city, but it also serves as my favorite vantage point for photographs. I like to take visitors for an ice cream at the cafe at the pinnacle of the MIA Park, where the views of the skyline from across the Gulf are unparalleled. We’ll then watch dhows (traditional boats) nipping in and out of the harbor from our comfy seats, staying put until the sun starts to dip so that we can witness the most spectacular of Arabian sunsets.
Family Day Out
When I have a day off with my family, we usually head to the beach or the desert to make the most of the sun and enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes around Qatar. Some favorite spots include TaliaMare Beach Club on The Pearl Qatar for relaxed boho vibes and great pizza, Sealine Beach south of Doha for dune bashing and camel riding, and the desolate desert to the west of the city, where you can find interesting rock formations and unique sculptures rising out of the sand. There are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had here if you’re willing to explore!
For Cheap Eats
No one does it better than Korean and Japanese restaurant Yee Hwa. It’s unpretentious, and dare I say it, a little shabby around the edges, but every time I’ve eaten here, it’s been full of Japanese and Korean expats, which points towards its quality and authenticity. The well-thumbed menu is extensive, serving everything from traditional Korean meat-based dishes, which customers cook themselves on table-top griddles, to noodles and sushi.
A Typical Evening
A typical evening involves heading to Souq Waqif or Souq Al Wakrah just after evening prayer for a cheap but delicious, authentically Middle Eastern bite to eat and a little shisha. At these traditional markets, you can also haggle for pretty fabrics and ornate trinkets, see camels and falcons up close, and watch the world go by from one of the little cafes along the winding lanes.
An Unmissable Experience
Heading to one of Doha’s hotels for Friday brunch is an unmissable experience. Brunch in the Middle East is all about eating (and drinking) as much as you can throughout the afternoon. The food often comes in the form of extensive international buffets, with some entertainment and live music thrown into the mix. Just be sure to pace yourself; otherwise, you’ll find yourself back in bed before 6 PM!
My Favorite Spot
I could spend all day hanging out at The Pearl Qatar, the impressive manmade island that my family and I call home. There is so much to see and do here, from the semi-circular marina of yachts at Porto Arabia, to the pretty pastel houses of Qanat Quartier, to the lively restaurants and cafes in Medina Centrale, and the chic designer outlets and art galleries dotted around. Handy water taxis transport you from one end of the island to the other in style, and it’s by far my favorite place in the city.
Challenges of Living in Doha
One thing I dislike about Doha is the long, hot summers when the temperature soars above 40°C, forcing everyone indoors to seek shelter from the heat and humidity in air conditioning. We refer to the period between June and August as ‘the summer exodus’, when a large portion of the population leaves the country for more comfortable climates, and for those who remain, it can feel like an arduous wait until life starts anew in September.
Seeking Green Spaces
When I am craving a bit of green, we head out to one of Doha’s numerous parks. Our top choices include the Museum of Islamic Art Park for its views and scenery, Hotel Park for peace and tranquility amidst the bustling city, and Al Bidda Park for winding pathways, barbecue areas, and hidden playgrounds.
Celebrating Special Occasions
For special celebrations, I always indulge at Nobu at the Four Seasons hotel. The largest restaurant of this global chain by chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Nobu Doha is not only an architectural wonder, but it also serves up some of the finest food in the city. There’s a unique Japanese afternoon tea concept, ever-changing omakase menus, and one of the best close-up views of the city’s skyscrapers from the outstanding rooftop bar.
Life in Doha
I know I’m a Doha-dweller because I complain about the heat but secretly love it; I eat far too much each week but justify it by saying we won’t be doing this forever; and I’m constantly sweeping sand off my balcony.
