Camel Races, Souks and an Inland Sea: Discovering the Real Qatar

Wanderlust: Off the Page

When you hear the name Qatar, you might think about the 2022 World Cup, or picture a business hub, or even have some trepidation about visiting. This episode is here to blow away those pre-conceptions and reveal the real Qatar; and, spoiler alert, it’s way better than you might think.

Taking us there are photographer Will Gray, who at the time of recording had just come back from an assignment in Qatar for Wanderlust; Hazel Plush, a regular Wanderlust contributor and Middle Eastern travel expert; and Siham Haleem, a local freelance guide who has been showing off Qatar to travellers for more than 13 years.

Highlights include:

• Getting the low-down on the ultimate itinerary for experiencing capital cuty Doha’s rich cultural offerings.

• Visiting Souk Waqif to sample local delicacies, and learn the “delicate dance of the haggle”.

• Exploring Qatar’s UNESCO World Heritage site, Khor al Adaid, the Inland Sea, one of the most beautiful and unique eco-systems in the world.

• Going to the Shahaniya Racecourse where thoroughbred camels are ridden by robots, not humans.

• Discovering the art installations, historic sites, and unbounded beauty of the desert.

• Connecting with the people of Qatar, described by our guests as one of the most hospitable and welcoming in the region.

FIND OUT MORE

Check out VisitQatar.com more information

Check out more of Will Gray’s photography on Instagram @willgrayphotography, and his website william-gray.co.uk

Connect with writer Hazel Plush on Instagram @hazel.plush, and her website hazelplush.co.uk

You can book Siham Haleem as your Qatar guide. He recommends searching ‘Siham Haleem Qatar Guide’ on Google to connect directly. His Instagram is @siham_qatarguide

WANDERLUST MAGAZINE

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This episode was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Aaron Millar hosts the show and produces it. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com