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Qatar is hot. The best time to visit is October to April, when temperatures range from the mid 70’s to the high 90’s.
Emirates airlines and British Airways fly directly from London to Doha (7 hours). Qatar Airways flies out of Frankfurt (7 hours), and American Airlines from London via Bahrain to Doha (10 hours). Doha International Airport is about 15 minutes by car from most major hotels.
Although the city of Doha is a manageable size, most hotels provide (and strongly suggest using) drivers and tour-guide services.
English is widely spoken. And although many locals wear traditional robes and headdresses, visitors should feel comfortable in Western clothing.
Four Seasons Hotel Doha
Located in the heart of the West Bay business and residential complex, the hotel has its own private marina and beach. 011-974/494-8888; fourseasons.com; doubles from $385, including breakfast.
Ritz-Carlton
The company now has two properties here. Ritz-Carlton, Doha (West Bay Lagoon; 800/241-3333; ritzcarlton.com; doubles from $516) is a waterfront tower on the Arabian Gulf. Ritz-Carlton Sharq Village & Spa (Ras Abu Aboud St.; 800/241-3333; doubles from $402), a collection of low-rise villas, is modeled after a traditional Middle Eastern town.
Al-Saha
A recent transplant from Beirut, this restaurant serves the city’s best Lebanese food. Grand Hamad St.; 011-974/435-5353; lunch for two $83.
Mint Living Café & Restaurant
Chic, colorful décor, and interna-tional food. Al-Muthanna Complex, Salwa Rd.; 011-974/467-5577; mintqatar.com.qa; dinner for two $66.
Le Nôtre
A hip French restaurant with a modern atmosphere. Al-Emadi Center, Salwa Rd.; 011-974/455-2111; dinner for two $69.
Turkey Central
For tasty kebabs and tomato bread. Al-Nasser St.; 011-974/ 443-2927; lunch for two $14.
City Center Doha
A 350-store complex with high-end fashion boutiques. West Bay; 011-974/493-3355.
Villagio
This shopping center built like a small town, on the outskirts of Doha, has garden walkways bordering a man-made river.
Souq Waqif
A traditional market downtown. Souq Waqif Rd.
Arab Museum for Modern Art
Khalifa Town, outside Education City; 011-974/487-6663; mozahbintnasser.qa; by appointment only.
Education City
Al-Luqta St., Al-Rayyan; 011-974/492-7000; qf.edu.qa.
Qatar Foundation Heritage Library
43 Maha St., Al-Luqta; 011-974/487-0427.
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