Stopover Doha, Manamh

About the destination: Doha is the capital of Qatar. Qatar's capital is developing into a big metropolis and it is becoming a major business center. Doha is a delightful mix of traditional and modern Arab life. The city skyline still under construction, is very unique and are quite fascinating to look at. Each building is very distinct and yet doesn't seem to leave the Arabian feel too far behind. Life in Doha revolves along the Corniche, the long seaside promenade along Doha Bay, a perfect place to relax and enjoy the pretty views of Palm Tree Island and the city's skyscrapers. The north contains most of the historic sites, including Umm Salal Mohammed, a relatively large village dominated by the ruins of a 19th-century fort. Particularly interesting are the Grand Mosque with its many domes and the Abu Bakir al-Siddiq Mosque. On the west coast there are fine beaches at Umm Bab, Dukhan and Salwah near the Saudi border. The south is a region of sand dunes and beaches, offering opportunities to go pearl hunting, or to practice a variety of watersports. If you should tire of city life, the rest of Qatar is virtually on the doorstep, offering some splendid scenery and interesting historical attractions to those with a taste for adventure.

About the destination: Manama, located on the northeastern corner of the island, is the capital and largest city of Bahrain. Manama is a modern, fast moving city with high-rise buildings and a real authentic flair. Although the city is following the trend of the Gulf, the construction of skyscrapers, Manama has preserved a lot of its original atmosphere. Bahrain’s capital is an intriguing mix of old and new, excavated tombs from four thousand years ago lie a few short miles from modern skyscrapers. Manama Souq, full of multi-colored spices and exotic fruits, glittering jewels and luxurious silks, coexist with ultra-modern shopping complexes and top-notch restaurants and quiet coffee shops contrast with the best nightlife scene of the region. Manama has some interesting sites to see, including Al Fateh Mosque, Bahrain Fort, Bahrain National Museum, Barbar Temple, Corniche al-Fateh and the Museum of Pearl Diving, considered one of the most important historic buildings in Bahrain.