When I first wrote my initial blog post I had been in Qatar for just over a week. Now after further immersing myself in the culture and getting valuable first-hand knowledge from the returning students, I feel much of my first impressions have been accurate. There is still a vast divide between the Qatari elites, the American and European upper class, and the destitute migrant workers of South Asia. However, I have learned, from students born in other parts of the Middle East, the benefits and opportunities that Qatar provides allow them to escape the poverty, warfare, and far stricter religious groups of their homelands. This idea of Qatar as a? beacon of modernization, religious freedom, and economic opportunity may seem absurd coming from an American perspective, but to many, it is the only realistic chance they have to secure a better future.?
For anyone visiting Qatar my top 5 travel guide would include:
- Souq Waqif – A dazzling night market selling everything from foods, souvenirs, household goods, and horses, Souq Waqif is the epitome of Qatar?s ability to combine tradition and modernity into one location. The favorite meeting place for social outings, family dinners, or business meetings, the Souq provides a glimpse into Qatar?s past while still retaining the comforts of today.?
- Desert Safari – A journey into Qatar is incomplete without a journey into the infinite sand dunes. Filled with breathtaking views and fun activities i.e. sandboarding, camel riding, and dune bashing, the desert is something unique to this region of the world and an opportunity to experience new activities.?
- Corniche – The stunning seaside walk taking you by the downtown area and through the heart of the World Cup craze, Corniche is the best place to go in Qatar for being active or getting beachside access. Close by to fishermen, traditional boats, five-star hotels, and endless malls, Corniche is a reminder of Qatar’s past as a pearl market, and its present as a thriving metropolis.
- Education City – With up to 8 nearby campuses and thousands of students from all over the globe, Education City is one of the most diverse areas in the world. With an open mind and a willingness to talk to others, Education City provides the opportunity to meet and learn from people from across the world, especially places we as Americans only hear the worst of.?
- The Pearl – The sheer audacity of building man-made islands and then placing the most luxurious properties, restaurants, and shops make the Pearl a must-see stop in Doha. Occupied by European and American expatriates, the Pearl is the peak of luxury and the best place to find a piece of home in such a foreign land.
This study abroad has taught me how to approach travel with an open mind and take the most out of any opportunity given. I will admit Qatar was not my initial or even second choice for a study abroad, nor were the agricultural companies we visited something I would choose to do on my own. However, being here and gaining knowledge of those industries and the challenges and opportunities they possess has broadened my worldview and how I choose to make decisions. CIBS has done an amazing job of giving us the background to Qatar?s culture and allowing us the time to truly immerse ourselves and discover purpose in our study abroad.
