An exclusive guide to Qatar: eat, sleep and visit the country

Qatar, the country of the FIFA World Cup 2022 is a tiny country with a lot to offer. So, have you thought about exploring it? If you don't know where to start, we're here to help. Because during the last 20 years or so, this small country that looks like a finger has continuously worked on transforming its desert landscape into smart cities, stylish and luxurious neighbourhoods, reclaiming land for high-living and developing state-of-the-art environments.

A hike along its amazing Corniche route extends 7km along the waterfront of the Doha basin to the municipality. And from here, you can experience the futuristic skyline and marvel at the West Bay areas. You will see administrative and financial centres, embassies and ministries, all over the sea in curvy tall towers, some of which have an appearance of the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamin bin Hamad Al Thani.

If you're more of a fan of old worlds, you can still experience this kind of tourism in Quatar. Try the Dhow boats that were being used for pearl diving in the era when trading in pearls was an entire enterprise. Now, the boats are used only for entertainment so get ready to enjoy a ride. Or see the souq that shows you how things were before, pick up a camel ride in the desert.

Visit the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) - because it's a space of 430,500 square feet where you'll experience a gorgeous piece of architecture designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, who styled the building in the desert. The shows there are just as spectacular and breathtaking, if you enjoy storytelling and have a little time on your hands to uncover the history of Qatar and how the country evolved over the millennia.

See the Katara Cultural Village, located between The Pearl island and West Bay. This is an extended city in the Islamic fashion, having museums, a planetarium, multiple galleries, and a beautiful beach. The city also holds two mosques, one designed by Turkey’s Zeynep Fadiloglu, made with Persian and Turkish tile and enamel. The other one, the Gold Mosque is smaller but the gold tiles sparkle in the sunlight so you're in for a treat. Don't miss the pigeon towers, they're quite cute.

The Pearl of Qatar is an island built on reclaimed land, designed as a high-end luxury district. The title recalls those pearl diving days while the architecture is inspired by the Mediterranean luxury houses and hotels that are mirrored in the water. It's also the best place in Qatar that you can buy a property. Here, shopping is a massive thing but just walking around or enjoying a coffee on the streets and watching luxurious yachts is also amazing. And while you're here, why not try something different from a chill walk and get into a paddleboarding adventure? The local school will bring you out on the water and you can even learn how to paddleboard like a professional. If you fancy an adventure, you can contact 365 Adventures for a 90-minute session at £37 per person.

If you're a more organized tours person, then take the opportunity and enjoy a camel ride and a drive in the desert, in a luxurious 4×4. This experience is named dune bashing and it is a famous recreation for locals and tourists alike. During the tour, you will see Khor Al Adaid - Inland Sea - connecting to the Saudi border. Sunsets here can be trully amazing.

Visit Doha’s Souq Waqif, a cultural enjoyment and the only area to see the heart and spirit of Qatar. The architecture offers an image of what the city looked like a really long time ago, many years ago. This is the famous place where spices and carpets are bought and sold. Here, you can buy traditional ceramics, pashmina, lanterns, and have fun while doing it as all prices are negotiable. Word of advice: don’t be shy! Have your your bargaining talents sharpened and get ready.

You can also visit bars and smoke the traditional shisha with flavoured tobacco. Drink the ginger tea or the Gahwa, a super delicious coffe with cardamom and saffron. Moreover, you can visit a new area of Doha build as a smart city, with solar panels. You will see parks, fountains and beautiful architecture dotted with mosques and history museums. There are big open spaces with extensive underground cooling systems to keep the temperature down. Plus, it's easy to get around with the electric tram.

Wondering where to eat? BOHO Social Restaurant in the Katara Cultural Village has a Bohemian inspired lounge and terrace, with an original menu taking you to different places: Asia, Southern Europe, Middle East. Sit outside and appreciate the stunning sea sights with the tall buildings. Another pearl you shouldn't miss if you want excellent food is the Jiwan restaurant by Alain Ducasse, located at National Museum of Qatar. Make sure you're booking a lunch that's been curated by the famous chef himself. This beautiful restauranr offers unforgettable dinners on its terrace, overseeing the desert and the sea alltoghether. What are you waiting for?