Because of the unexpected blockade last year by neighboring Middle Eastern countries, Qatari nationals and residents have become wiser in purchasing tickets to go to their preferred holiday destinations at the end of the month which fall on the same time as Eid and summer break. Many, especially the expats book for Eastern European countries according to The Peninsula for two reasons: the locals want to be in new places and the expats select destinations that are cheaper than London, Paris or Rome.
These are the top 9 nations, excluding the UK and France, where the travelers prefer to go to this year and their offerings:
- Turkey – It is understandable that Turkey is a favorite for it has stood by Qatar during the recent difficult times. Travel + Leisure recommends walking leisurely around Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Topkapi Palace, cruising on the Bosphorus, vieing the ruins at Ephesus, having a hot air balloon ride over the caves and towers of Cappadocia, and spending time at the beach in Bodrum.
- Malaysia – For visitors of this southeast Asian country, Travel + Leisure suggests checking the underwater treasures the Perhentian Islands, exploring the world’s oldest rainforest, identifying monkeys on a jungle cruise, and binge-shopping in Kuala Lumpur, its capital.
- Croatia – Based on T + L, you should not miss the following if you’re heading to this beautiful country:
- The Dalmatian Coast
- Diocletian’s Palace
- The Mediterranean city of Dubrovnik
- The stunning waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park
- The architectural marvels in Zagreb
4. Albania – According to The Peninsula, Qatari citizens are exempted from visa in visiting this lovely nation for three months from April to the end of October. Tripadvisor lists Tirana (the capital), Saranda, Durres, Vlore, Ksamil, and Shkoder as the favorite go-to places of tourists.
5. Bosnia – Wikitravel says there are plenty of water sports that you can do in this Balkan country. You can go rafting, kayaking and canoeing, canyoning, and even fly-fishing in Neretva, Unac, and Krivaja rivers. It’s also great for winter sports especially skiing.
6. Kazakhstan – Tripadvisor showcases the country which takes pride of its historic sites; arenas and stadiums; museums, monuments and statues; nature and parks; concerts and shows; churches, cathedrals, and mosques; and architectural buildings.
7. Georgia – Tourists can enjoy the best wineries and vineyards the country has to offer. You can also take advantage of its private sightseeing tours, concerts and shows, sacred and religious sites, monuments, and statues with Georgian food and drinks.
8. Oman – Just like in Qatar, one should dress appropriately when visiting this country as they advise women to carry a shawl to hide their hair when they come upon religious areas. Be also careful when taking photographs. Learn Arabic words like “salaam aleikum” that will be useful as you go around by bus or four-wheel drive vehicle which is preferred when traveling off-road. Upon going home, remember to bring with you silverware, frankincense, and woven local wool scarf.
9. India– T + L invites you to India to visit the wonderful Taj Mahal, either at sunrise or sunset, learn about and try the cuisine, which varies from one region to another, and enjoy the spas, special food and amazing landscape of Kerala.
As a traveler who has learned from experience, it is ideal to act wisely according to a certain future. You should plan for your trip beforehand to enjoy your trip with the most savings and least efforts. It is the best time for expats to go back to their home countries and reconnect with their families. Qatari nationals who usually travel for leisure can also enjoy a world outside their own.
“One’s destination is never a place, but always a new way of seeing things,” Henry Miller, an American writer said. So, spend your summer vacation with renewed enthusiasm and zest for life!
By Jin
Sources:
Shoeb, Mohammad. “Sharp rise in holiday bookings.” (2018, May 26). The Peninsula. Retrieved from https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/26/05/2018/Sharp-rise-in-holiday-bookings
“Albania.” (n.d.). Tripadvisor. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g294445-Albania-Vacations.html
“Albania exempts Qatari citizens from visa requirements during summer.” (2018, April 8). The Peninsula. Retrieved from https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/08/04/2018/Albania-exempts-Qatari-citizens-from-visa-requirements-during-summer
“Bosnia and Herzegovina.” (2018, April 29). Wikitravel. Retrieved from https://wikitravel.org/en/Bosnia_and_Herzegovina
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