Two of the citys most popular attractions, the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif, are both closed on Friday mornings. Yes! To find out the answers, journalists Lyric and Asher Fergussonwho run a travel site dedicated to safetyrecently published a report called The 203 Worst (& Safest) Countries for LGBTQ+ Travel in 2023, which takes a close look at the state of travel around the world. No need to cover your head. Qatar is a sovereign state in the Middle East that has been independent since 1971. I give Doha 4 stars. Go to the Museum early, so that you can do some justice before it closes at 5.30PM, http://www.mia.org.qa/en/visiting/opening-times. 1 review 1 helpful vote Is Dubai safe for Western females travelling alone??? I wonder if it is easy and safe to go see the city on my own without joining a tour, or is it better to just pay double for the tours? Check car hire prices. - Oud, concentrated perfume. Being anything but heteronormative is incredibly dangerous and punishable by imprisonment in 64 other countries on the list, says Fergusson. When visiting a new country, its a good idea to dress on the conservative side and then gauge what's acceptable. Ok, I will ask for Oryx Rotana at the Qatar desk and see if I'm lucky :) Maybe if the hotel is too good, there will be a risk I won't want to leave to go out and explore (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-96658928', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Doha corniche, you can go to villagio mall, city centre and alhazm. The harsh reality is that the majority of the world is still far from safe for LGBTQ+ people, says Fergusson. This list of 19 incredibly useful Qatar travel tips covers everything from dress code and rules for couples, to budgeting, and how to move around the city. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Legislation is always in flux around the world, with new laws and guidelines affecting the lives of LGBTQ+ people everywherefor better or worse. km) extends into the Arabian Gulf and the country has more than 500 km of coastline. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-64035157', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Doha this summer - 6:15 am to 1:30 am the next morning. On my list is the Museum of Islamic Art, the nearby MIA Park Bazaar, Souq Waqif and a stroll along the Cornich. On the downside, Doha lacks the gritty charm and rustic authenticity of Muscat, for example. Your email address will not be published. Most newscasters first reaction was to point to the absolute unsuitability of the climate for outdoor sports. How easy is Doha airport to navigate to get to a connecting flight? Also can you recommend a friendly, not too expensive, good restaurang serving local food in or near Souq Waqif? 18:00 Stay in the desert to sample a traditional barbecue then stay overnight to immerse yourself in Bedouin hospitality, sleeping under the stars at a desert camp. Prices start from 156/$186 a night for a superior king room. Traditionally used for fishing and other commercial activities, many are now used for tourism and dinner cruises along the river instead. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Try sustainable products that don't require you to dispose of sanitary items. Some great progress was made this year: Several countries legalized same-sex marriage and decriminalized same-sex relationships, says Asher Fergusson. I feel much safer here than I do in England ! Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Remember to bargain lessthan 50%. Beach resort areas and major tourist hotspots are more accustomed to women in revealing clothing, however, a conservative outfit commands more respect. Qatar has a range of accommodations to choose from whether you prefer international brands or budget guesthouses. Taxis are excellent, use the greeny blue Karwa ones they are the equivalent to STATE taxis and are the cheapest. Single tickets can be bought from machines inside the stations no cards or top-ups necessary. If you are planning a trip to Doha, Ive covered things to do in Doha and beyond in this article. Desert gusts are tempered, skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal, giving Doha a spring-like atmosphere. There are lots of things to do in Doha and beyond. If you do sunbathe here, you need to wear proper swimwear. d) For the dhow cruise and taxis, you will have to pay in local currency. . If its water sports that youre into, you can try kitesurfing, parasailing, sailing and kayaking here. If youre travelling to Qatar as a couple, there are particular local laws and social customs to be aware of. By telling us your country of residence we are able to provide you with the most relevant travel insurance information. Streets are laid out to catch the Gulf breeze and shade walking routes and windows, limiting the need for air conditioning. Sources include Human Rights Watch, the Gallup World Poll and ILGA (the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association), just to name a few. And is it safe for women traveling alone? Snapped at the Richard Serras sculpture in the Qatari desert. When you are exploring, keep your eyes peeled for public art installations at these locations: Anne Geddes: Healthy Living from the Start at HMC Womens Hospital. This UNESCO-recognised natural reserve is where you can take a camel ride along the beach, drive across sand dunes, spot wildlife or paddle in the Arabian Gulf. Weekends upto 8PM. Whether you are on a tour or taking on the night by yourself, always be aware of your surroundings, and never leave your drink unattended as drink-spiking is still common. There is a Quiet Lounge up on the first floor and if you can get a seat there then it is possible to get some rest. Hence, you can convert your money on arrival at the airport. Your email address will not be published. Along with the data, the team reviewed all countries individual laws to create an LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index that reflects the most current information in an ever-changing world. Qatar Airways have provided a hotel room for me and I will use it in the late evening but before then I want to go out and explore Doha. Anything above 0 is too many.. from Hamad International Airport (recommended if youre arriving late at night or early in the morning). But wait you must drivers are unpredictable, speeding is common, and jaywalkers face fines of up to $140. According to the LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index, Brunei is the most dangerous country for gay travelers in 2023, followed by Saudia Arabia and Nigeria. To further ensure your safety and to better grasp your surroundings, having a, Having a sim not only means you can send that Snapchat, post that Instagram, search for places to eat, or Google translate a phrase; but also means constant contact with people ensuring someone knows where you are at all times, Having access to maps also assists you to plan a route, gauge how long it will take in real time walking, driving or via public transport. What are the most LGBTQ friendly countries, and what are the most homophobic countries on earth? Crime rates are very low in Doha across the board, which is why its constantly ranked among the top 3 safest cities in the world. If youre booking a hostel in Doha, make sure you check whether its gender-separated. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63978264', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Katara Cultural Village is the focal point for arts and culture in Doha and has art galleries, an amphitheatre for opera, drama and concerts performance as well as restaurants and a beach and water sports facilities. There is no dress code for women but its recommended to respect the culture by keeping beachwear on the beach and dressing appropriately in public. This well-known museum takes you on a journey through 14 centuries of Islamic art and showcases some of the finest art and artefacts. I'm staying at Kingsgate hotel near Souk Waqif metro so it looks to be away from that area but I'll still heed your advice . This museum covers the history, culture, and heritage of Qatar, and features exhibits of traditional crafts, costumes, and artefacts. Street safety in Southeast Asia for Women, Experience Southeast Asia's nightlife safely, Top 6 Scams to Look Out for When Traveling in Cambodia, Is The Philippines Safe? If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. I live in Doha and its safe ! Considering a stopover in Doha or planning your first visit to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup? Just remember to not walk around outside of the beach in your bikini or swimsuit. As a forty-something unconventional divorcee, I have travelled to 143 countries and 111 of these alone. Getting around Doha, the capital of Qatar, is easy on foot but if you prefer to take Qatar transport, there are several options for getting around in Doha: Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Doha and are a convenient way to get around. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Ask for Oryx Rotana, which is a very good place with very good restaurants and also a discotheque. A stamp collection may not usually be your thing but the Arab Postal Stamp Museum is worth visiting just for the beautiful Arab-style building that its housed in. I'll have a look where that hotel is so I'm aware. Regarding the restaurant as I said before you have plenty of choices and a dinner may cost you between QR.50 to QR.150 depending on your food selection. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-64010712', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Doha is a safe and friendly place also for solo women.Regarding taxis, how much tip is expected? Any particular beautiful spot I shouldn't miss - i'm a keen photographer. Year-round sunshine is pretty much guaranteed in Qatar and it hardly rains except in winter when it is only a quick shower. Then Take a Taxi to visit the Souq Wafiq located at Musherib street and Al Rayyan Road which is near to Cornichebuy your Souvenirs and don't forget to BargainIf he says QR. Well I'm all set and excited for my short (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Other rules, such as dress code, are more strictly enforced during the Holy Month. Prices start from 88/$105 per night for a studio. Youll then be eligible for a free stopover of 1-4 nights. Or anywhere else in Doha after dark? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-27070593', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Doha is a Safe place for women' s . This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Theres a lot of good news this year, and we hope to see more as 2023 progresses, says Fergusson. Stroll along the promenade, see the Pearl Monument situated on the roundabout or just spend some time seeing the traditional wooden dhows in the sand. (I know the souq is closed between noon and 4pm). How safe is it to go to the malls and just be out? All three of these countries have the death penalty on the books for convicted gay relationships.. Which is the Best rent a car Services in doha qatar? Wow!! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-104277093', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car to get on. Firstly, the plurality of faces on the street is obvious and gives Doha a cosmopolitan feel. Still, others like Russia and the United States are attempting to take steps backward, particularly with their approach to propaganda laws and anti-trans legislation. For a small country, there is a variety of nature. 11:00 Continue your morning of culture and learning at the Museum of Islamic Art. It surprised me to learn that you might be denied entry to the Museum of Islamic Art if your shoulders and knees arent covered. Youll find that most Qataris speak English, especially those who work in tourism. Furthermore, its helpful when negotiating taxis to see which route they are taking or if they are overcharging you for amile-long trip claiming it is very far. 15:00 Travel southward to Souq Waqif Al Wakra before reaching Sealine for a desert safari. In the day I would like to explore the city, but I realised that there isn't an option to book for a single traveller for any of the tours on Discover Qatar, so I will have to pay for two people if I want to join by myself. A former foreign . To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. However I am not sure how safe Doha is for women alone, I lived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for 8 years (I left in 2000 when I was 16) so I know how it can be for a woman out and about on her own. Qatar is a great destination for all types of solos. Cool season (December through February) is mild, with temperatures averaging 14-25 Celsius most days. If youre on a shorter layover and you prefer to stay near the airport, Oryx Transit Hotel is the top choice. So is there any good news? There are several bus routes that connect the airport with the city centre. Enjoy Latin American food at Toro Toro in Marsa Malaz Kempinski, and for vegan food head to Evergreen Organics at The Pearl. The only time I felt uncomfortable and would definitely advise against was walking back from the Souq was around 10-11 pm through the immigrant workers living area (behind the Ramada encore hotel). I've travelled to Istanbul and (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? <
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is doha safe for solo female travellers
