The summer holidays are almost here and so are the Eid holidays! It’s time to pack your bags and set out to unwind, relax and discover newer destinations this summer!
Rabat, Morocco
A hidden treasure in the realm of tourism, Rabat, the capital of Morocco gleams with charm amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Lying silently by the Atlantic Ocean, Rabat offers many landmark heritage sites that embrace its Islamic and French-colonial history. Its beaches, landmarks, and cuisine are the highlights of the modern city and its old soul.
The Hassan Tower, a UNESCO world heritage site, stands tall at 44-m as the city’s most prominent landmark. It stands as a testament to lost time and is reminiscent of Sultan Yacoub Al Mansour’s plans. The Rabat Medina has its own life and it’s easy to get lost in its history. Its own mini blue city, the Kasbah Les Oudaias is a predominantly residential area with whitewashed houses – a visual treat and a leisure spot for locals. Chellah, Bab Oudaia, and Musee de Bank Al Maghrib are just a few more of a plethora of archaeological sites.
Rabat offers some very special dishes that give one’s taste buds a treat. In dishes such as Le Petit Beur, Ty Potes, Le Bistro du Pietri, one can dance to the melody of some authentic French and Moroccan flavours. Dar Zaki, Ch’hiwates du terrior and Tajine Wa Tanjia are a few must-visits to taste authentic cuisine!
Qatar Airways now offers direct flights to Rabat, Morocco.
Antalya, Turkey
Situated in the southern Mediterranean region of Turkey, Antalya is a perfect spot for both adventure-lovers and leisure tourists. A resort city by design, this turquoise coast has everything to offer from beaches to waterfalls and hiking grounds.
Wander off into the rich history of the city with a tour to the Ruins of Perge, the Aspendos Theatre and Myra and the Church of Saint Nicholas to name a few. These sites capture moments of Roman history and the Byzantine Empire that shaped the future – a must for all history lovers. A tour of the ancient town of Kaleici is something one shouldn’t miss with its combination of history, cuisine, and entertainment.
All adventure-lovers, starting from beginner all the way to expert rafters, can try rafting at Koprulu Canyon National Park, the longest canyon in the country down the Kopru River. Hikers can take the 540 km path all the way to Fethiye, passing through stretches of the beautiful countryside of Turkey. This 29-day Lycian Way is an adventure of a lifetime.
Relaxing in this city with its beautiful view is a perk one can claim from their resorts. Antalya is known for its range of luxury resorts such as the Titanic-inspired Delphin Imperial Hotel Lara. Kickback and relax with all the great food the country has to offer with its traditional dishes and fresh produce. A must-have would be their grilled fish and meze platters.
Qatar Airways recently introduced direct flights to Antalya, Turkey three times a week (Sunday, Wednesday and Friday).
Mykonos, Greece
A Greek island in the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is the perfect summer travel destination and offers the best of both worlds – for a party and/or relaxation or leisure atmosphere.
To soak up on the city’s archaeology sites, one can take a water taxi all the way to the island of Delos, an island with a number of archaeological sites consisting of Doric temples, amphitheatres, markets and the iconic Terrace of the Lions statues. The windmills of Chora are also another historic attraction alongside Little Venice. The infamous Kato Myloi (lower windmills) stands facing the sea.
Travelling in small yachts and cruises to Delos and Rhenia Islands is a lovely leisure tour. Sunbathing, snorkeling and swimming are just some of its perks. Walking around the town of Mykonos becomes a tour when you take in the beauty of the whitewashed walls of houses that lay in symphony with the white plastered streets.
Shopping is a star activity around town as famous designer labels and a good assortment of jewellery and gift shops can be found here.
Mykonos also offers great cuisine, rich in flavours, and good for the heart and soul. Classics such as the Moussaka and the Gyro are not to be missed. Traditional almond cookies, Amygdalota, are a must-try regional dish.
Qatar Airways has recently re-introduced direct flights to Mykonos, Greece flying three times a week on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
Malaga, Spain
Located in the heart of Costa de Sol in the southern coast of Spain, Malaga stands tall with its vibrant blue waters, sandy beaches and high-rise buildings that amplify and accentuate its beauty. Nuzzling in the coziness of its environmental wealth, this place provides an array of opportunities for exploration, discovery and entertainment.
One can be immersed by the history of Malaga with a visit to the fortress of Alcazaba built in the 11th century, the Teatro Romano, an ancient Roman theatre from first century BC or the cathedral Nuestra Senora de la Encarnacion, to name a few. With over 250 collected pieces done by Pablo Picasso, the Museo Picasso Malaga makes one travel back in time. Their cuisine is an altogether another attraction. Using only the most natural and simplest of ingredients, Malaga offers the richest of flavours and the most delectable dishes – classy, traditional and modern combined. Celebrate your travel with the city’s most exquisite wines that date back to the 18th centuries.
Travelling during the months of July and August tend to be the busiest with the influx of tourists all over the world. June provides certain tranquility and pleasant atmosphere for those who wish to tour leisurely.
Qatar Airways re-introduced direct flights to Malaga, Spain this May, flying five times a week on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
Malta
A small island country in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta encompasses both land and sea tourist attractions. A lot about Malta can be defined by the remnants of history. Let us name a few.
Malta is where you’ll find the St Johns Co-Cathedral, an iconic church designed and built in the late 16th century. It houses a painting of John the Baptist. Another marvel attraction given their sheer size and huge structures are the Ggantija Temples, said to be constructed before the invention of the wheel. And there’s the Mosta Dome, an exquisite example of lavish architecture. The dome is dedicated to St Mary and designed in neo-classical furnishings and paved with marble floorings.
For adventure-seekers, Malta has the island of Comino. An uninhabited island, Comino is the best spot for cave and reef diving. For fans of Game of Thrones, you can join tours that cover all the filming spots of the popular series.
Malta’s cuisine focuses on the season and has an inadvertent rustic appeal for anyone looking for a bit of adventure on their plate. A few of their specials include Rabbit Stew, Bragioli and Widow’s soup with goat cheese. Look for Tarragon and Diar il-Bniet, well-known restaurants that offer the most authentic Maltese cuisine.
Qatar Airways will be introducing direct flights to Malta starting June.
For more information on flights and destinations from Doha to anywhere in the world, visit qatarairways.com.
Author: Ahona Saha
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