The Ultimate Stopover Guide: How to Spend 24 Hours Exploring Doha

Doha is the capital city of Qatar, and it is located on the Persian Gulf coast in the east. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Qatar, with 80% of the people living in Doha and its surroundings. It is highly urbanised, and the population consists mainly of foreigners, with Qatari nationals forming a minority.

Qatar’s main international airport is located in Doha, called the Hamad International Airport. This airport was opened in 2014. Over 37 million travellers pass through this airport each year. Travellers who have a stopover in Doha’s airport en route to their final destination can spend time discovering the city.

Most top sites in Doha can be visited by travellers with a 24-hour stopover. Travellers get enough time to visit most of the top attractions in Doha on a day stopover. On your next stopover in the city, experience the Middle Eastern culture of Qatar. Travellers can even turn their stopover from one day to two days with a layover in Qatar. The airport is close to the city centre, which gives travellers ample time to explore the city.

If you are travelling via Qatar Airways, then you can avail the exclusive stopover packages, which offer the best rates for hotels ranging from budget to luxury. Go to their official website or use the mobile app to make a Qatar Airways booking.

Most travellers only transiting Doha do not need a visa, but if you decide to leave the airport, then visa requirements will have to be fulfilled, as per nationality. Most nationalities are offered visa-free entry by Qatar; if not, then you can apply for a transit visa online.

Doha is a vibrant and accessible city, which makes it an ideal city for a stopover experience. The transit visa system is efficient, and the city’s world-class museums, luxurious offerings, and traditional souqs offer an amazing experience.

Top attractions to see in a day

The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)

It is one of Doha’s most celebrated cultural sites. It is located on the Corniche waterfront, surrounded by Doha Bay. The museum stands on its own island away from all the high-rise buildings. The museum was designed by the architect I. M. Pei has spectacular artworks. The museum offers an impressive collection of Islamic art that dates back over 1400 years. It showcases beautiful textiles and intricate designs. Travellers interested in art, history, and architecture must visit this site. It also has modern cafes which offer incredible views of the city’s skyline.

Kata Cultural Village

It is an art and cultural hub and a fascinating place to explore. The unique charm of Qatari tradition can be experienced at this village. Here you will find art galleries, traditional architecture, an amphitheatre with classic Greek design and Islamic features, and intricately designed facades and walkways. It has several international and local eateries where you can try Middle Eastern flavours. It hosts exhibitions, workshops, and performances, and to attend them, you can check out the schedule. Admission to the village is free. It overlooks the ocean and the city’s skyline. There is a beach nearby where you can enjoy water sports.

Qatari Boat (Dhow) Ride

The Corniche has a waterfront promenade which extends to Doha Bay. You will find wooden Qatari Dhow boats along the Coniche, where you can get a boat ride. It is located near the Museum of Islamic Art, and you can visit both attractions.

Souq Waqif

It is the oldest market in the country and also the most traditional. Here you can buy gifts and unique souvenirs to take home with you. It has many market stalls that sell a variety of goods like perfume, spices, textiles, handcrafted jewellery, and handicrafts. There are a lot of cafes with outdoor seating where you can try a cup of Karak (a Qatari spiced tea). At the restaurants, you can taste the local flavours or eat at shisha lounges.

National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ)



It was opened in 2019 and is a modern marvel designed by the French architect Jean Nouvel. It is inspired by the desert rose crystal formation found in Qatar. The museum offers information about the history of Qatar from the Bedouin period to the modern state. Rich multimedia shows the country’s history, oil-driven transformations, and traditional heritage. The evening lighting makes the museum appear photogenic with an attractive exterior.

The Pearl-Qatar

Wrap up your day by visiting Pearl-Qatar, which is an artificial island known for its high-end shopping, luxury living, and waterfront restaurants. It has Mediterranean-style architecture and gives a feel of a European town with Qatari luxury. Spend time walking along the waterfront, shopping at the designer boutiques, or dining at the waterfront. Take a sunset cruise or rent a yacht to enjoy the Doha skyline from the water.

Malls

There are many malls in the city, such as Mirqab Mall, Tawar Mall, Lagoona Mall, Landmark Mall,Mall of Qatar, and Villaggio Mall. The malls offer many international and local brands, entertainment facilities including a cinema and a children’s play area, and dining options. At the Mirqab Mall, there are many events and promotions throughout the year. Tawar Mall is a contemporary shopping mall, Lagoona Mall has a stylish, modern design and is a luxury shopping mall, and the Mall of Qatar is a large shopping mall and also holds live performances on stage. The Villaggio Mall is the most popular shopping mall and is made to resemble the city of Venice with canals and gondola rides. You can visit any of the malls if you have time.

Conclusion

Exploring Doha during a day stopover is worth it. The stopover packages offered by Qatar Airways make the city easy to access for visitors. Travellers can experience the traditional and the modern side of the city. Your visit will leave memories of modern architecture, mouth-watering cuisine, and rich culture. The city’s unique charm will make your stopover an unforgettable experience. Next time you have a stopover in Doha, do not forget to explore the city for a memorable experience.

Note: The pictures in this article are courtesy of unsplash.com and wikipedia.org respectively and have been borrowed under the creative commons license.

The Rise of Solo Travel and the Precautions That Matter

Nowadays, solo travelling has become more popular than ever. Many people now choose to explore the world on their own, as they seek the freedom to plan their own journey, learn more about themselves, and meet new people along the way. Solo travel allows you to go at your own pace, make your own decisions, and enjoy experiences that are truly personal and meaningful.

However, travelling alone also means taking full responsibility for your safety and well-being. Without a travel companion, you need to stay more alert and be well-prepared. From choosing the right destination to keeping important documents safe, solo travellers must take a few extra steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Why is Solo Travel Gaining Popularity?

Solo travel has witnessed a steady rise in popularity in recent years, with more people choosing to set off on their own rather than wait for company. Several key factors have contributed to this growing trend, making it a preferred choice for many. They include:

1) Greater Personal Freedom

Travelling alone allows individuals to plan their journeys exactly as they please. Solo travellers have the flexibility to follow their own schedule, make spontaneous changes, and visit places that truly interest them. This sense of freedom leads to a more tailored and fulfilling travel experience.

2) Journey of Self-Discovery

For many people, solo travel goes beyond exploring new destinations; it is also about understanding themselves better. Facing unfamiliar situations alone helps build resilience and self-confidence. It often reveals personal strengths and boundaries that may not have been recognised before, making the experience deeply transformative.

3) Break from Everyday Life

Modern life can be overwhelming, with constant responsibilities and social expectations. Travelling solo offers a rare chance to step back, enjoy solitude, and recharge mentally. The quiet and space away from daily distractions give travellers time to reflect and reconnect with themselves.

4) Symbol of Independence and Empowerment

Solo travel has become a powerful expression of independence, particularly among women. With improved access to safety resources and a supportive community of solo adventurers online, more women are choosing to explore the world on their own. It stands as a confident step towards self-sufficiency and freedom.

5) Remote Work Has Changed Travel Habits

The shift to remote working, especially after the pandemic, has blurred the lines between work and travel. Many professionals now take advantage of their flexible schedules by working while on the move. This has made solo travel more practical and attractive, allowing people to explore new destinations without taking time off from their jobs.

What Precautions Should Solo Travellers Always Take?

Taking the right precautions ensures not only your safety but also a smoother and more enjoyable journey. Here are some essential steps every solo traveller should follow:

1) Do Thorough Research Before You Go

Before booking your ticket, take time to gather as much information as possible about your chosen destination. Read travel blogs, explore online forums, and ask for advice from seasoned solo travellers. Learn about local customs, health risks, weather conditions, transport options, and the political situation.

2) Choose Safe and Well-Reviewed Accommodation

Your accommodation should be a place where you feel safe and at ease. Research various options and pick what suits your comfort level—be it a private holiday rental or a lively hostel. While private properties offers solitude, hostels often provide a social environment where you can meet fellow travellers. Always read reviews and prioritise properties with high safety ratings.

3) Check Visa Requirements Thoroughly

For any solo international trip, understanding visa requirements is essential. While many countries provide a visa on arrival for Indians, making last-minute travel more accessible, solo travellers must be especially careful.

Travelling alone means there is no backup if things go wrong at immigration. Always check the most recent visa rules, allowed duration of stay, required documents, and entry conditions well in advance.

4) Carry Emergency Cash

Running out of money is stressful, especially when you are travelling alone with no one to turn to for help. Keep a small stash of emergency cash in a separate location from your main wallet. This ensures you have a backup in case of theft or loss. Carrying an additional credit card exclusively for emergencies is also a smart move.

5) Keep Digital and Physical Copies of Important Documents

When travelling solo, especially on international trips, it is vital to be prepared for any situation involving lost or stolen documents. Always keep both digital and printed copies of key documents, including your passport, visa, travel insurance policy, flight tickets, accommodation details, ID cards, and emergency contact numbers.

6) Limit the Items You Carry Around

Although it is not always realistic to travel without valuables, try to avoid taking them out with you during daily outings. Keep gadgets, documents, and other essential items locked safely in your accommodation. Only carry what is necessary for the day to reduce risk and stress.

7) Stay in Touch with Family and Friends

Your loved ones will naturally be concerned when you are away. Keep them updated about your location and activities. Share your itinerary with someone you trust before leaving and check in regularly. This helps ensure your safety and provides peace of mind to those at home.

8) Engage with Other Travellers Cautiously

Just because you are travelling solo does not mean you need to stay alone the entire time. Meeting new people can enhance your journey. Utilise hostels, travel apps, online communities, or local tours to connect with others. However, beware: scammers often target solo tourists by pretending to be friendly.

9) Spend Wisely, But Do Not Compromise on Safety

While it is tempting to cut costs, never do so at the expense of your safety. It is often worth paying extra for a safer neighbourhood, secure transport, or reliable travel insurance. Being adequately insured means you are better prepared to deal with unexpected emergencies.

10) Prioritise Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an essential requirement for anyone travelling alone. It covers unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, baggage loss, passport loss, and emergencies. Solo travellers, without the safety net of a companion, benefit greatly from the protection that travel insurance offers.

11) Know Your Limits and Respect Them

Pushing yourself too hard can lead to risky situations. Avoid drinking excessively, do not venture out when you are too tired, and never attempt activities that are beyond your ability, such as swimming in deep waters if you are not confident. Being cautious helps prevent accidents and ensures a safer trip.

Travelling solo provides unparalleled independence, opportunities for self-development, and memorable experiences. Nevertheless, with that freedom comes the responsibility to remain alert and well-prepared. By choosing to follow the above-mentioned tips, you can enjoy your trip with confidence.

Most importantly, never overlook the importance of travel insurance, as it provides essential support in unexpected situations. With the right precautions in place, your solo journey can be both safe and truly rewarding.

Linya Homestay at Aalo: Traditional Galo Tribal Home Experience

A holiday in Arunachal Pradesh is special in many ways. The mind blowing nature (with lush forests, rich biodiversity, mighty rivers and the stunning Eastern Himalayan mountains), the rich tribal culture and the delicious food make your trip to Arunachal Pradesh a dream experience. If Central Arunachal Pradesh - Ziro, Daporijo, Mechuka, Lamang, Tuting or Pasighat happens to be in your itinerary, you might be passing through Aalo (Along). This town located at the confluence of the Sipu and the Siyom rivers is an ideal place to get introduced to everything Arunachal.

During my road trip through Central and Eastern Arunachal Pradesh, I stopped at Aalo while heading towards Mechuka. At Aalo, I stayed at this lovely homestay called Linya Homestay. This review is based on my recent experience of staying with them.



Highlights of staying at Linya Homestay in Aalo:

1) Staying with a local Galo tribal family: Linya homestay is run by a lovely Galo tribal family where 3 generations of women manage the entire show. The family were very hospitable, helped us with guidance and sightseeing inputs, opened their kitchen and dining hall to us and shared loads of their tribal culture and traditions with us.



2) Great location: The Linya homestay is located right in the middle of a residential locality in Aalo town and is situated right above the Sipu river. The home is located right in the middle of a huge space that includes a large parking area, a huge flower garden, a large vegetable garden, a small poultry farm and steps that lead you to the Sipu river. A short ten minute drive from the homestay takes you to Cozy, a local hotspot located at the confluence of the Sipu and the Siyom rivers. This place is perfect for those evening sun downers and dinner.



3) Traditional Galo tribal dining experience: At the Linya homestay, you have the option to eat with the homestay family in their traditional bamboo based dining area that consists of a bamboo floor, fireplace in the centre of the room, low level seating and decorated with traditional hats, bags, knives and other equipment used in their daily lives. This dining experience coupled with their home made rice beer and delicious home cooked food is one of the top highlights of staying here. It is not often that you get invited into the private dining space of the home owners, share their food and beer and have a fabulous conversation with them about their traditions, culture, festivals and so much more. Meals are on a chargeable basis and the prices are reasonable.



4) Simple and lovely rooms: Linya homestay has 6 to 8 double bedrooms with attached bathrooms and a dormitory for drivers. Some rooms are bigger than the others, but all the rooms are neat, cosy and comfortable. Hot water facility is there in the bathrooms and each room comes with a shared sit out where you can enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee while admiring the mountain landscapes. They also offer free wi-fi facility in their rooms. The rooms cost between INR 2500 and INR 3500 per room per night.



5) Very safe facility with CCTVs and security personnel: Linya homestay has a large parking area where you can park your two and four wheelers in a safe environment. There is a huge gate that is locked during the night and the homestay dogs guard during the night along with the watchmen. The large secure area also makes it a great place to go for those post dinner walks without worrying about dark spaces and stray animals.



Overall, Linya homestay is a fabulous place to stay in Aalo during your Arunachal Pradesh trip. The traditional setup is a must experience. Such cultural exchanges are one of the top things to experience during your Arunachal Pradesh holiday.

How to make bookings at Linya homestay:



If you are booking on your own, you can reach out directly to the homestay owners at 8731803677 or 8126143734. If you are going through a travel agent or a travel company, you can also request them to book your accommodation at Linya homestay.

Best season to visit:



The best season to visit Aalo would be between October through April. This is when the weather is pleasant, the surroundings are lush and the rain is minimal, thus allowing you to indulge in water activities.

May and June will be warm and humid and June through September will be full of heavy monsoon rains that can close mountain roads anytime.

How to reach there:



The nearest airport would be Pasighat airport, 102 kms away, but the airport with the best connectivity would be Dibrugarh (at 200 kms away). The nearest railway station would be Dibrugarh railway station (about 200 kms away).

Buses ply between Aalo and Silapathar and also between Aalo and Pasighat, though they might ply only a few times every day. The fastest way would be to hire your own mode of transportation and drive through these beautiful mountain roads.

Nearby tourist attractions:



1) Cozy and the Siyom River Bank: For a relaxed evening by the riverside

2) Pasighat: Beautiful town by the Siang river that is known for its riverside, rafting and wooden hanging bridges

3) Likabali Tea Estates: Vast stretches of tea estates before the landscape shifts from plains into mountains

4) Daporijo: Scenic town and cultural hub in the upper subansri district of Arunachal Pradesh

5) Majuli Island: The largest river island in Assam, a heritage site and that serves as a hub of Assamese neo-Vaishnavite culture

6) Ranaghat Bridge near Pasighat: Mesmerizing view of the Brahmaputra river

Top tourist attractions of Arunachal Pradesh:



1) Emuli Grasslands: Gateway to the hidden seven lakes trek of Arunachal Pradesh

2) Traditional wooden hanging bridges of Arunachal Pradesh

3) Mayodia Pass: Arunachal Pradesh’s high altitude gem

4) Anini: Gorgeous hill station of India

5) Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary: Land of waterfalls and mini Switzerland in India



6) The world of rhododendrons between Mechuka and Lamang

7) India’s Last Cafe: Gorgeous pit stop enroute Lamang, Arunachal Pradesh

8) Lamang: Unknown snow covered paradise of India

9) Arunachal Pradesh’s Kaho: The first village of India

10) Breathtaking Western Arunachal Pradesh: A place full of natural riches



11) Dirang: Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden magical world

12) Tawang: India’s true shangri-la

13) Sela Pass: A high altitude Himalayan wonderland

14) Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary: Birdwatcher’s paradise in the Himalayas

15) Heavenly Sela lake in the Eastern Himalayas of India



16) Thukje Chueling Ani Gompa: Buddhist monastery run by nuns

17) Tongpen La View Point: A Himalayan vista

18) Jung Falls: A sensational setting

19) The serene and majestic Tawang Gompa

20) Tawang War Memorial: Honoring the unsung heroes of the 1962 India – China war



21) Tak-Tsang Gompa or T Gompa: As serene as it gets

22) Penga Teng Tso: A high altitude Himalayan lake

23) Ugyenling Monastery: Birth Place of the 6th Dalai Lama

24) Sangetsar Lake: Abundance of Himalayan vistas

25) Tenga Valley: Tucked amidst the Eastern Himalayas