Travel
Issues to know earlier than touring to Qatar
I’m a yr into my second stretch of calling Doha residence. So I’ve realized a factor or two about residing within the desert state of Qatar.
After I first lived right here 20 years in the past, no person had even heard of this outstanding little nation. As we speak, cruise ships hug the shoreline, and guests flock right here from across the globe. But some vacationers arrive unprepared.
Realizing some background info earlier than your go to will assist you to profit from your journey to this nation on the Arabian Peninsula. From dealing with the warmth and taking the super-modern metro to seeing wonderful artwork and attending to know the Qataris, listed here are my high suggestions that may assist you to get probably the most out of your go to to Qatar.
Timing your go to to Qatar is essential
Qatar’s “season” runs from October to Might. These months are the best time to visit, when most occasions and exhibitions happen and when the temperatures are nice sufficient to stroll round outdoors.
Qatar is a desert nation, and it will get sizzling. Like, actually sizzling. Summer time temperatures simply attain 50ºC (122ºF) – within the shade. Whilst you can count on every thing out of your rental automotive to the shops and even some bus stops to be air conditioned, you would possibly nonetheless get uncomfortable bouncing between them.
Determine to journey – or not – throughout Ramadan
The ninth month of the lunar Islamic calendar, the holy month of Ramadan is when Muslims quick between dawn and sundown. Throughout Ramadan, it’s frowned upon to eat, drink, smoke and even chew gum in public throughout daytime. Whereas Qataris are tolerant of non-Muslim guests, virtually all eating places are closed in the course of the day (accommodations supply the few exceptions). Visiting Qatar throughout Ramadan means your journey plans need to be extra versatile, however you’ll get the prospect to expertise festivities such because the every day sundown cannon being set off, the beautiful lantern decorations round city and the nightly iftar, the breaking of the quick after sundown that’s a joyous occasion in non-public houses and eating places.
Take care to decorate appropriately
Qatar is a Muslim nation, and whereas Qataris are tolerant – particularly of holiday makers – it’s an indication of respect to decorate modestly. It’s not an issue to put on a bikini at lodge seashores and swimming pools, however it’s respectful for women and men to cowl their shoulders and put on garments that attain to the knee when strolling round elsewhere, particularly in areas the place you’ll encounter many locals, reminiscent of in Souq Waqif.
Hop on the Doha Metro
Whereas a lot of Doha’s focus on Souq Waqif and Msheireb is walkable within the cooler months, the simplest and most snug way to get around is on the Doha Metro. This contemporary, clear and expansive system takes you to all of the busy hubs inside Doha and its environment, together with the airport and the cities of Al Wakrah and Lusail.
Perceive the native etiquette
From avoiding consuming together with your left hand to espresso taken with cardamom and the assorted kinds of conventional gown, Arab tradition generally is a new expertise for these from outdoors the Muslim world. To study etiquette and practices straight from Qataris, go to Embrace Doha for experiences that may train you in regards to the cultural ins and outs right here.
Don’t let preconceptions scare you away
Even earlier than they go to, many vacationers have an opinion about Qatar – however it’s important to reach with an open thoughts and expertise it for your self. Whereas guidelines, customs and legal guidelines would possibly differ from the place you reside, Qatar has been altering so much in recent times. After I returned to stay in Qatar once more after a 15-year absence, I barely acknowledged the place. An increase in worldwide guests has spurred the nation to proceed to work towards extra adjustments.
Solo feminine traveler visiting Qatar? No worries
Many contemplate Qatar the most secure nation on the earth – and as a girl residing right here, I’ve by no means felt threatened. (After all, it takes just one dangerous expertise to vary your view on that, however the identical holds for each nation on the earth.) In Qatar, I often neglect to lock my entrance door and my automotive, and even depart my purse in my purchasing cart. You need to use widespread sense as you’d anyplace – and count on to really feel secure and welcome.
Attempt the favourite native breakfast
Since Qatar is likely one of the world’s richest international locations, celebrity-chef eating places abound all through the capital. But vacationers visiting Qatar on a funds can nonetheless discover scrumptious low-cost meals, such because the native favourite breakfast of karak and chapati. A tea made with condensed milk, cardamon, ginger, saffron and sugar, karak is spicy in addition to candy, whereas chapati is a flatbread served often with honey or cheese (or each!). You’ll be able to attempt these two staples in most simple-looking cafeterias, at meals stalls in parks or in Katara village. You’ll know the place to seek out them by the hungry locals queuing as much as order.
Be taught extra in regards to the significance of the beloved nationwide chook
The falcon is Qatar’s nationwide chook, and they’re so revered that they’re allowed on flights and even get their very own seat. Doha has a falcon hospital in addition to a falcon market; in your go to, cease at Souq Waqif to have a more in-depth have a look at these attractive birds. Whilst you’re there, don’t miss the camels and thoroughbred Arabian horses which can be stabled proper within the metropolis middle.
Qatar is an artwork hub of the Center East
Qatar is greater than luxurious purchasing and such prestigious sports activities occasions because the 2022 FIFA World Cup: it’s shortly turning into a heavyweight on the Center Japanese artwork scene, too. In Hamad Worldwide Airport alone, you may see greater than a dozen installations by such internationally well-known artists as KAWS, Urs Fischer and Jean-Michel Othoneil. Head into the desert at Zekreet to see the beautiful East–West / West–East by Richard Serra, or go to the big Miraculous Journey by Damien Hirst. Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art is world-class, whereas pockets of avenue artwork complement the capital’s high-culture choices.
Loosen up in a park
Most of Qatar’s landscapes are beige and sandy – so take a break from the desert hues at a inexperienced park in Doha. My favourite is MIA Park behind the Museum of Islamic Artwork, which bends round a bay and is filled with small meals vans that promote karak, chapati and different goodies. MIA Park not solely has fabulous mature bushes and grass good for picnicking, but additionally provides excellent views throughout the skyline, with picturesque wood dhows (conventional boats) moored close by.
Don’t miss out on the desert
It’s simple to maintain busy in Doha, but you may’t depart Qatar with out experiencing the desert. As you off-road over sand dunes in a 4WD automobile to, watch flamingos, camp beneath the clear skies of the “inland sea” of Khor Al Adaid and slide down the horseshoe-shaped Singing Dunes, you’ll uncover how the desert lies on the literal coronary heart of Qatar – and the figurative one among its folks.
Get your hands on Qatar’s historical past
Bedouin have lengthy lived across the Arabian deserts, however the tradition’s nomadic life-style signifies that most locations on this area don’t have any historical constructions. But Qatar has few historic surprises, such because the petroglyphs at Al Jassasiya and the Unesco-listed Al Zubarah Fort, each nicely value a go to.
Plan the place to have a drink
It’s attainable to stave off the warmth with a cool beer in Qatar – however you’ll must plan forward. You can’t import alcohol into Qatar from duty-free outlets or purchase something however non-alcoholic beer from the grocery retailer, nor are you allowed to drink alcohol in public locations. Alcohol is on the market in Qatar solely on licensed premises, reminiscent of bigger accommodations and lodge eating places. Most accommodations have excellent bars, snug beer gardens or out of doors eating places the place you may sit again with a glass or two.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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