Everyone loves a two-for-one bargain. For regular folk, that might mean two pairs of shoes for the price of one at the local mall. For the travel-savvy globetrotter, it means a trip overseas via Qatar, ‘The World’s Best Value Stopover’ destination. A stopover in Qatar turns every holiday into two: the one to your final location and the affordable Qatar mini-vacation on the way. And by affordable we mean from only $19 a night!
We’ve got six reasons why Qatar is the ultimate stopover destination.
6. It’s a Foodie Haven
The culinary diversity in Qatar is so wide-ranging that it’s like tasting the whole world in this pocket-sized country. It’s remarkable, really, that a country that’s 668 times smaller than Australia can contain such variety in its borders. Travel with your tastebuds to India, Iran, Ethiopia, Lebanon, and so many more.
And you needn’t think that your meal can’t be served with a light tipple. While drinking alcohol is not a big part of the locals’ lives, you are welcome to enjoy a wine or beer at the delectable restaurants, stylish hotels, and atmospheric rooftop bars.
5. It’s a Nature Lover’s Paradise
Did you think Qatar was all glitzy hotels and fancy shops? Then you’ll be surprised to learn that during your Qatar stopover, you can connect with the diverse marine ecosystem that surrounds this Middle Eastern state.
The world’s largest population of whale sharks migrates past Qatar’s northeast shores from April to September annually: witness the world’s largest fish on a boat cruise. You’ll also spy dugongs, sea turtles, and migratory flamingos in Qatar.
For a more active nature-based adventure, consider Qatar’s watersport options. Why not kayak amongst the Al Thakira mangroves? Or sail a traditional dhow boat? Or kitesurf, parasail, snorkel or scuba dive? Way better ways to break up a journey that an airport hotel, particularly when the Qatar stopover deals are a steal and far more glamorous!
4. It’s a Thrill-seeking Destination
Forget a boring stopover destination; in Qatar, you can double your heart rate as well as your holiday vibes. Sandboard the ever-changing dunes, go dune-bashing in a 4WD, soar over Doha in a hot air balloon. The only yawn on this list is the one you’ll give as you wake early to take that sunrise hot air balloon ride.
In November and December 2022, a different kind of thrill arrives in Qatar: the roar of the thousands as they fill Qatar’s stadiums for the FIFA World Cup! The ‘The Pearl of the Peninsula’ is building world-class stadiums and facilities as they prepare to host 32 nations and their fans during these coveted games.
3. It’s a Beach Lover’s Boon
Australian beaches are fab, but we can only spend so much time sunbaking on them due to our pesky winter months. In Qatar, however, the year-round sunny climate means you can R&R every day at the spectacular beach resorts along its 500 km of pristine coastline.
Whether it’s a flop and drop mid-travel, a family break, or a romantic getaway in itself, Qatar offers sun, sand, and rejuvenation.
2. It’s a Shopaholic’s Dream
Like many stopover destinations, shopping is a drawcard. Qatar has a stand-out reputation for its retail therapy opportunities. Huge malls are filled with everything from high street brands to designer labels. Plus, there are the souqs, filled with jewels, treasures, and Arabian trinkets. The contrast between these shopping experiences is part of Qatar’s charm.
With stopover hotel nights starting from only $19 per person, everything you save on room nights equals a bigger retail haul, right? Be sure to leave extra space in your luggage!
1. It’s a Culture Charmer
Relics from the Stone Age have been uncovered in Qatar, with the first signs of human habitation dating 50,000 years. It’s no surprise, then, to discover that Qatar is a country rich in culture, history, art, and architecture.
The National Museum of Qatar, housed in one of the world’s best architecturally designed buildings, offers a great introduction to her treasures. The Museum of Islamic Art displays art from three continents and 1,400 years.
Make time to wander the sprawling alleyways of Souq Waqif, where traders have wheeled their wares for centuries. Don’t miss Qatar’s UNESCO World Heritage sites either., including the archaeological site of Al Zubarah Fort and the Khor Al-Adaid (Inland Sea) phenomenon where the desert meets the sea.
Travel Advisors: It’s a No-Brainer!
These are just six ways that Qatar offers every traveller more bang for their buck as a premium stopover destination. Add to this compelling stopover package prices (in conjunction with Qatar Airways) that are simply too good to refuse.
- Book a 3-4-star stopover package from $19 pp per night
- Lock in premium 5-star package rates from $28 pp per night
- Go all-in on deluxe packages (including breakfast) from $106 pp per night
Get stopover ready by learning Qatar’s secrets (and about the current VIP famil) on the Discover Qatar trade booking portal. For more Qatar inspiration, head here.
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