First impressions of Doha…

First impressions of Doha…

6

Bob the Builder couldn’t even fix this place, though he certainly seems to be trying based on the amount of construction going on. So my first day in Doha is coming to an end and I spent most of it out and about. At least that’s what my sunburn suggests. The concierge provided me with a lot of suggestions this morning, at least half of which were visiting construction zones. He kept saying “and maybe when you come back the construction will be completed.” In that case you can take your time building the stuff, cause it’ll be a while!

The most interesting thing I saw was Souq Waqif, which was a more traditional market, selling everything from birds to rugs to Dunkin’ Donuts (maybe that last part isn’t all that “traditional”). I’ll save the details of that for the trip report, though.

While I’ve felt totally safe, I haven’t felt especially welcome (and no, I’m not walking around wearing an “I love the USA” t-shirt). I’ve felt welcome by the ex-pats, which I suppose compromise a majority of the service industry, though the “natives” have been anything but friendly. Being a pedestrian in Doha is also quite difficult, since there are almost no crosswalks and there’s no way in heck you’re crossing a street without a crosswalk. Therefore something as simple as crossing the street can take a half-mile detour.


Beach at the InterContinental


Islamic Museum


Souq Waqif

Conversations (6)
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  1. The Points Guy Guest

    Great photos- I'm now tempted to invest in the digital camera you just got. FYI I also just got the 13" Macbook Air, which I'm really impressed with- what are your thoughts so far?

  2. Michael Guest

    This travel expert is only 21! He has a lifetime to explore! I waited tilt 40s to see the wiles so I'm envious of his youth, exuberance and can-do spirit. Rock on Ben!

  3. lucky Guest

    @ bmvaughn -- Who knows, maybe I already have a longer trip planned to there. ;)

    @ Justin -- The city is surprisingly aesthetically pleasing, but that's about it. There's very little substance to it.

  4. Justin Guest

    You're being too critical, it looks nice. If you think this is bad, try Ajmer, India. That my good sir is hell.

  5. Jared Guest

    When I was there in 2006 there was a crazy amount of construction. I can't believe it's not even close to done yet.

  6. bmvaughn Guest

    Dubai would have been a better intro to the Middle East... or Cairo :D

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The comments on this page have not been provided, reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any advertiser, and it is not an advertiser's responsibility to ensure posts and/or questions are answered.

The Points Guy Guest

Great photos- I'm now tempted to invest in the digital camera you just got. FYI I also just got the 13" Macbook Air, which I'm really impressed with- what are your thoughts so far?

0
Michael Guest

This travel expert is only 21! He has a lifetime to explore! I waited tilt 40s to see the wiles so I'm envious of his youth, exuberance and can-do spirit. Rock on Ben!

0
lucky Guest

@ bmvaughn -- Who knows, maybe I already have a longer trip planned to there. ;) @ Justin -- The city is surprisingly aesthetically pleasing, but that's about it. There's very little substance to it.

0
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