The ‘Venice of the desert’ with Italian-style canals and boat rides
FAR away from the Venice of Europe, is the ‘Venice of the desert’ with highs of 25C in February.
The Pearl Doha in Qatar is an artificial island that boasts homes, tourist spots and sandy beaches.
Construction started way back in 2004, with the first residents being welcomed in 2009 and today, the island features a variety of different neighbourhoods, each with their own identity.
The island, which has just under 20 miles of coastline. features 10 districts including the Qanat Quartier, which is often dubbed as the ‘Venice of the desert’ thanks to its canals and pastel-coloured buildings.
Visitors can head on boat rides to discover the pretty canals and a number of arched bridges, like the replica of the Rialto Bridge.
Another tourist-favourite is the Piano Stairs, where you can jump on different stairs to make musical notes.
Read more on travel inspo
Or for some proper fun and games head to Megapolis, where you will find virtual reality games, karaoke, bowling and racing simulators.
One recent visitor said: “Qanat Quartier is one of the most beautiful and unique places I’ve visited in Qatar.
“The colorful buildings, quiet canals, and charming bridges give you the feeling of walking through a mini Venice right in the heart of Doha.
“The area is peaceful and perfect for a relaxing walk, especially in the evening when the lights reflect on the water.”
equally popular is the Abraj Quartier, which is known as the gateway to The Pearl Island.
This neighbourhood is home to two towers offering panoramic sea views.
In the Porto Arabia neighbourhood, there is an open-air shopping area that has a French Riviera lifestyle feel.
The shopping area also overlooks Qatar‘s largest and award-winning marina, which is the ideal place to catch a glimpse of the many luxury yachts moored up.
Along the colourful waterfront, known as La Croisette (just like in Cannes), there is a two-mile promenade where more shops and restaurants can be found.
It is also in Porto Arabia where you will find the Four Seasons Resort and Residences.
The resort features a spa, private beach, two outdoor infinity pools, an indoor lap pool and a kid’s area.
There are plenty of beaches to chose from on The Pearl, with one popular option being Bahriya Beach.
One recent visitor said: “[It] has pristine sandy shores, perfect for lounging and swimming.
“A must visit when in Qatar.”
Another visitor added: “Soft sand that is raked every day to make sure it is well kept and flat.
“The water is also Lovely and no jet ski’s or boat allowed close by so very safe for swimmers and children.
“Great for paddle boarding or canoeing.”
On the beach is also Plt Cafe, where you can grab a flat white for 21 Qatari Riyal (£4.23).
The cafe also serves an array of sandwiches for around 30 Qatari Riyal (£6.04).
The cafe is noted by visitors as having a “wonderful atmosphere” perfect for “short, cosy visits” with views across the beach.
Right next to The Pearl, is Gewan Island, where visitors can explore the Crystal Walk, which is Qatar’s longest climatised outdoor walkway with a temperature of around 22C year-round.
As you walk along the 450-metre walkway, 45 crystal structures light-up.
When you are out and about looking for a bite to eat, you can expect to pay around 300 Qatari Riyal (£60.36) for a mid-range three-course meal for two.
You may have to stick to soft drinks though, as alcohol is only allowed for non-Muslims at licensed hotel bars and restaurants.
Hotel prices vary in Doha depending on the area of the city you stay but, for example, you can find a Premier Inn for £31 a night or stay at the five-star Andaz Doha by Hyatt for £66 a night.
Return flights from London to Doha in April cost from £468, alternatively you could fly from Birmingham from £531, Edinburgh from £608 or Manchester from £615.
If you want to head to the real Venice in Italy, one reporter who recently visited said that the Italian city is better in winter with wine bar tours and Miami-like hotels.
Plus, there is an unusual UK attraction people say is like being in Venice following £19million transformation.