What Doha has to offer...
by call_me_rhia
Doha, the capital of Qatar, has long been nicknamed Dubai sleepy sister... and also the most boring city in the world. I did not find it to be so, though it's not (yet) exactly an happening place. Sights are not many but I found my stay very plesant and relaxing - and did not have the time to get bored. Good company helped - since we were visiting our Libyan friends who now live there. While Dubai is attracting tourists mainly interested in shopping, partying and lounging on the beach - Doha is trying to attract another type of tourism: the cultural one. Top museums are being built around the city and, if they turn out spectacular like the new Museum of Islamic art, I think they will find the gold pot of the end of the rainbow.
Bustling Coffeehouses
by bpwillet
There are not too many outdoor coffee houses and fewer traditional coffee houses in Doha. With the "new" old souq area there are now quite a few that have sprung up. As you zig-zag past shops and shop owners hawking their wears, you may find yourself down an alley that opens up to a coffee shop. There are a few to choose from in the souq area off Hamdan road. You will find many men sitting talking, playing backgammon, smoking sheeshas, and drinking coffee.
The coffee is inexpensive and the atmosphere is lively.
Umm Salal Mohammed Fort
by bpwillet
With your own transportation you can visit nearby cities or explore most of the country. It won't take that long. Umm Salal Mohammed fort is an 18th century fort with thick fortified walls and typical Arabian crenilations built during the reign of Sheik Mohammed bin Jasim. It is hard to say if it is open to the public for viewing but you can park just outside it and walk around. North of Doha along the North Highway. Go through the town about 1.5 miles and you will see it. It definitely stands out from everything else.
Fruit and Vegetable Market
by jungles
The market is a great place to get fresh fruits and vegetables at a very good price, and it's also an interesting place to visit just for the atmosphere. There is both a wholesale and retail section. You will first come across an open-sided, roofed area with many boxes and crates of produce; this is for wholesale distribution only and generally shuts down by late morning. If you want to buy just a small amount, go inside the white concrete building nearby, which stays open a bit later. There is no sign (at least not in English) but you will see men with wheelbarrows or metal carts hanging around the entrance; they will offer to follow you around and transport your purchases for a small tip. There are many stalls, so feel free to shop around before you buy anything. Generally fruits are in one area and vegetables in another.
Expensive to eat at Doha Airport
by zuyao
It's pretty expensive to eat in Doha airport. I had a fish burger and a root beer float for 28 riyals. That's like RM28 for something than would cost less than RM10 in KL. And it doesn't taste any nicer. There is also a food court selling things that don't look appetizing. However there are 2 cafes which look quite nice. Didn't try that though but are pricey too.