AMMAN, JORDAN

Amman is a city steeped in rich history and culture. With its ancient Roman ruins, bustling markets and modern skyscrapers, this city offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. Begin your journey at the Citadel where you’ll find the remnants of ancient civilisations such as the iconic Roman Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. Continue with a visit to the Roman Theatre, a majestic amphitheatre carved into the hillside, where ancient gladiators once commanded crowds with spectacular performances. In downtown Amman, you’ll find the lively markets of Al Balad that dates back thousands of years. Surrounded by the seven hills of Amman, it is home to hundreds of street vendors showcasing their wares along a maze of narrow alleyways. While here, take the opportunity to sample some authentic Jordanian street food. For nightlife, venture to a rooftop café for panoramic views of the city. With its blend of ancient history and modern charm, Amman promises an unforgettable experience. However, if you feel you’re missing out on other parts of Jordan, opt for day trips to the Dead Sea, the Desert Castles or to the Roman ruins of Jerash.
Travel time: 3h 15m | Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian codeshare direct flights four times daily
GO: VISIT WWW.VISITJORDAN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BAKU, AZERBAIJAN

Boasting a rich history and stunning natural beauty, Azerbaijan offers a diverse array of tourist attractions. Its capital city, Baku, has a unique blend of contemporary and historic architecture, where East meets West. This coastal city is a hub of activity and home to the famous Flame Towers, dominating the city’s skyline with their futuristic design, as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art. Kick-start your day with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast in Baku’s Old City – one of the most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can wander through the narrow streets, marvel at the intricate architecture of the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and visit the historic Maiden Tower. Baku also has the world’s greatest concentration of mud volcanoes and the ones at Dashgil near the Gobustan reserve, are a must-see. For nature lovers, the resort town of Gabala, nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, offers a serene escape with its refreshing air, scenic vistas and outdoor recreational activities. With plenty to see and do, from modern art galleries and ancient churches to theatres and cafés, Azerbaijan is a perfect little getaway to enjoy a few days of culture.
Travel time: 2h 55m | Qatar Airways flies daily.
GO: VISIT WWW.TOURISMBOARD.AZ AND WWW.AZERBAIJAN.TRAVEL FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BAHRAIN

The Kingdom of Bahrain, our closest neighbour and a short skip away from Doha, is a perfect destination for a long weekend, offering a mix of modern attractions and rich cultural experiences. At the top of the list is the Bahrain National Museum, where beautiful exhibits showcase the country’s history and heritage. The Qal’at Al Bahrain (Bahrain Fort), a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site dating back over 4,000 years, is another key attraction that will give you a glimpse into the island’s storied past. For those looking for a taste of local life, the historic Bab Al Bahrain building, and the gateway to Manama Souq, is a must. Enjoy the bustling marketplace filled with vibrant colours, exotic spices and handicrafts and stop at nearby Haji’s Cafe’s for one of the best traditional breakfasts in town. History buffs will appreciate the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world, renowned for its architecture and design. And no trip to the island is complete without a pit stop at the Bahrain International Circuit, home to the first Formula 1 Grand Prix in the region. The Kingdom also has an exciting live entertainment venue – Al Dana Amphitheatre – and, if you time yourself well, you can catch Amr Diab live on April 26! Whether exploring ancient history, indulging in local cuisine or enjoying modern entertainment, Bahrain has something to offer every type of traveller.
Travel time: 50 min | Gulf Air and Qatar Airways each operate three direct flights daily
GO: VISIT WWW.BAHRAIN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

COLOMBO, SRI LANKA

Colombo is a tropical paradise that offers everything from stunning beaches to colonial heritage sites and delectable food. If you’re lost for where to start, go with food first. Sri Lankan cuisine is an eclectic blend of exotic spices, and local favourites like Kiribath or Lamprais are a must-try. The city features charming colonial architecture, remnants of its Portuguese, Dutch and British past. Explore landmarks like Colombo Fort, Galle Face Hotel and Tintagel Colombo (where HRH The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall – now His Majesty King Charles III and Queen Camilla – stayed during their visit in 2013). History buffs must visit the National Museum of Colombo and the Dutch Museum. Be sure to also see the Seema Malaka Buddhist temple at Beira Lake. Retail enthusiasts can head on over to Paradise Road that offers garments and homeware, art and handicrafts. For relaxation, head to Mount Lavinia Beach, renowned for its rugged shores and seaside restaurants. While there, check out the Traditional Puppet Art Museum that preserves the dying art of wooden puppet shows. Overall, Colombo promises an unforgettable journey filled with warmth, flavour, vibrant culture and endless discoveries.
Travel time: 4h 50m | Qatar Airways flies direct six times daily; Sri Lankan Airlines flies once daily
GO: VISIT WWW.SRILANKA.TRAVEL FOR MORE INFORMATION.

CYPRUS

Renowned for its stunning beaches, rich history and lively traditions, Cyprus offers many delights for tourists. Paphos, a coastal gem has a wealth of archaeological sites, such as the House of Dionysus and Tombs of the Kings – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, housing intricate mosaics depicting mythological scenes. Close by is another popular landmark, Aphrodite’s Rock, a definite must-see. Enjoy seaside charm with Limassol’s lively promenade, vibrant nightlife and the historic Limassol Medieval Castle, a relic of the Crusader era. Further inland, the Troodos Mountains attract adventurers with their impressive landscapes, scenic hiking trails and ancient monasteries. They’re also home to quaint mountain villages like Kakopetria, Platres and the popular Omodos, known for its cobblestoned streets, traditional architecture and local vineyards. Of course, no visit to Cyprus is complete without exploring the breathtaking beaches of Ayia Napa, known for their crystalline waters and lively beach bars. Finally, the capital city, Nicosia, merges modernity with antiquity, featuring the Cyprus Museum and the historic Venetian Walls surrounding the old city. From music concerts to festivals, Cyprus has plenty happening in April to keep you entertained.
Travel time: 4h 10m | Qatar Airways flies direct daily
GO: VISIT WWW.VISITCYPRUS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GOA, INDIA

India’s smallest state is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife and rich Portuguese legacy that is evident in its food, Baroque architecture, old forts, soulful fado music and cathedrals. Begin in North Goa, where lively beaches like Baga, Calangute and Anjuna will capture your heart with their golden sands and azure waters. At night, the beach shacks come alive with music, dance and delicious seafood, offering a taste of Goa’s legendary nightlife. For tranquillity, head to South Goa’s pristine beaches like Palolem and Agonda where the only soundtrack is the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. For a glimpse into Goa’s colonial past, explore Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting majestic Portuguese-era churches and cathedrals like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé Cathedral de Santa Catarina. Venture inland to experience lush forests, spice plantations and quaint villages. Don’t miss the spice gardens of Ponda or the jungle safari in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. No trip to Goa is complete without sampling its Indo-Portuguese cuisine, so don’t miss the infamous vindaloo or xacuti. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a cultural immersion, Goa promises an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve bid farewell to its shores.
Travel time: 3h 35m | Qatar Airways flies direct daily
GO: VISIT WWW.GOATOURISM.GOV.IN FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GREECE

A country steeped in mythology and history; Greece boasts a plethora of attractions that draw visitors to its shores. Top on the list of things to do is the Acropolis of Athens, an ancient hilltop citadel with iconic monuments, including the Parthenon, symbolising classical Greek civilisation. Explore the ancient ruins of Delphi, home to the sanctuary of Apollo and the Oracle, renowned for its stunning mountain views. Don’t forget to experience the birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia, which features ancient ruins such as the Temple of Zeus and the original Olympic stadium. And for a glimpse into Greece’s mediaeval past, check out the fortified town of Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with Byzantine marvels. Greece, of course, is renowned worldwide for its beautiful and varied islands. From Corfu’s lush landscapes and Crete’s ancient charm to Mykonos’ vibrant nightlife and Santorini’s romantic sunsets, there’s something for everyone in this Mediterranean paradise. The International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day, is celebrated on April 18 worldwide and Greece offers free entrance to its numerous archaeological sites and museums. So, don’t miss this opportunity to soak in some culture.
Travel time: 5h | Qatar Airways operates between two and three direct flights to Athens daily
GO: VISIT WWW.VISITGREECE.GR FOR MORE INFORMATION.

ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE

A capital city bridging two continents, Istanbul is steeped in rich history, culture and beauty. At its heart lies the famous Hagia Sophia with its grand dome and intricate mosaics – a stunning monument that over the centuries has been a church, a mosque and a museum. Nearby is the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), featuring six minarets, cascading domes and beautiful blue tiles. The imperial Topkapi Palace and the iconic Galata Tower are equally impressive and beg exploration. For a taste of the local culture, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world. Wander through a maze of colourful shops selling everything from spices to carpets – don’t forget your Turkish Delight! Experience the vibrant energy of Istiklal Avenue with its eclectic mix of boutiques, historic buildings, restaurants and cafés – perfect for strolling and shopping. Below the city’s streets, take in the grandeur of Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir, with its striking columns and mysterious atmosphere. Finally, enjoy a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait for breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. While you’re there, don’t miss the International Tulip Festival held throughout April, with more than 20 million tulips in full bloom across the city – it’s a sight to behold!
Travel time: 4h 45m | Qatar Airways flies direct twice daily; Turkish Airlines flies once daily
GO: VISIT WWW. GOTURKIYE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.