Drivers offer ‘uber’ insights into life in Qatar
Whether you are a visitor to Qatar, or a resident non-driver like me, navigating your way around the capital, Doha, is easy, thanks to an efficient public transport system and up to 24 000 Uber drivers clamouring for your business. Such transport is affordable since fuel is just QAR2 (that’s R10 or 43 pence) a […]
South Africans in Qatar – ons gaan nou braai
We may live in swish surrounds, earn good money and feel oh-so-safe in Qatar, but our hearts still yearn for South Africa. I know I am not alone. With some 6 500 Saffers living the ex-pat life here in Doha, I know I am far from the only one missing the bush, braai fires, family, […]
A quick taste of the food culture in Qatar
Machboos, kottu roti, teppanyaki, osso buco, tabbouleh, biriyani, fish and chips … there’s a smorgasbord of tastes when it comes to food in Qatar, thanks to its multi-cultural population. But it is not just this wonderful opportunity to eat your way around the world without even leaving Qatar’s capital of Doha that is special. (Yes, […]
What to enjoy at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport
Efficiency, variety and a giant yellow teddy bear. That’s what you can expect to enjoy – and so much more – at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (HIA). After all, this airport is recognised as the world’s best. Some of the 60 million passengers HIA presently welcomes annually saw fit to acknowledge the airport’s distinctive Arabic […]
Put dhow cruise in Doha, Qatar on your list
A dhow cruise in Doha, Qatar, is what a gondola ride is to Venice, Italy – a must on the visitor wish-list. In Qatar, sailing on an ancient Arabic boat in the reflections of Doha’s swish skyscraper skyline at sunset is right up there with its desert safari, camel races and traditional market attractions. You […]
Gorgeous Georgia an ideal holiday destination for South Africans
Georgia is visa-friendly. It is also affordable; scenically beautiful, safe, and offers visitors a wonderful mix of cultures, thanks to its location in the mountainous crossroads of Europe and Asia. The food is fabulous and the wine, too. Oh, and did I mention rugby? In short, Georgia is an ideal holiday destination for South Africans. […]
Endless enriching exhibitions in Qatar
You name it and Qatar has probably hosted it. Exhibitions, that is. Be it a hands-on plunge into agriculture or an online Zoom opportunity to explore AI in the Arabic world, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to exhibitions in Qatar. Thankfully, all such exhibitions are free to the public. Many are held […]
Wealth in digging up the past in Qatar
In digging up its past, Qatar confirms its status as a wealthy country. While today’s affluence is built on the country’s vast oil and gas reserves, the Qatar of yesteryear had pearls and international trading to thank for its success. This all comes to light at the Al Zubarah archaelogical site. Situated on the north […]
Flowers in Qatar – it’s blooming brilliant
Roses are red Violets are blue Qatar is all sand But, boy, are there flowers on steroids here for you. Please forgive the poor take on an age-old rhyme. I just want to make a point. The flowers in Qatar are blooming brilliant, regardless of the harsh environment. Roses, carnations, dahlias, chrysanthemums, daisies, orchids, lilies […]
Showtime in Qatar – theatre thrills aplenty
There’s no business, like show business … Oh, how apt these lyrics in a country where the arts literally does take centre stage as part of Qatar’s vision to deepen understanding and bring nations closer together. The performing arts are part of the country’s arsenal to this end. Yes, it is always showtime in Qatar. […]