After a long wait filled with uncertainty and challenging times for football, 2022 is finally here. It looks like the World Cup will take place as planned. Qatar is the host country, and if you’re planning to watch some games in person, it’s the perfect time to start your research. We’ve put together all the details regarding your trip to Qatar for the 2022 World Cup. Everything’s carefully curated in the paragraphs below. Starting with how to get there, venues, how to conform to the local culture, and what other things to enjoy while you’re there.
Things to Be Aware of Before Traveling to Qatar
Qatar is known around the globe for its fantastic beaches, vast deserts, and ultramodern skyscrapers. Keep in mind that you’re traveling to an Arabic speaking country with a conservative culture. It won’t be quite as strict as other parts of the region, like Saudi Arabia, but one should still keep in mind the differences. It’s not a secret that things tend to be slightly different compared to Europe or other parts of the world. So, here’s what to keep in mind before you buy your tickets:
Dress Code
Qatar’s dress code may seem a bit strict to westerners. However, you must respect the traditions and cultures and make sure you don’t offend anyone. Women traveling to Qatar for the World Cup should wear modest outfits that cover their shoulders and avoid wearing short skirts or low-cut tops. As far as males are concerned, it’s advised to avoid shorts that come above the knee.
Alcohol
The World Cup is often associated with street parties while cheering for your team. However, that won’t be happening in Qatar. Islamic laws are stringent when it comes to drinking alcohol or carrying it in public. There are licensed restaurants or hotels for foreigners to purchase alcohol. Keep in mind you can only consume alcohol where you purchase it.
Public Displays of Affection
The culture of Qatar is quite strict regarding public displays of affection. Showing intimacy in public can get you arrested in some cases. Be careful with the public displays of affection such as cuddling, kissing, or even holding hands in certain areas.
Visas and Actually Getting There
Qatar is possibly the most open country in the Middle East. There’s a list of more than 80 countries that don’t require a visa to travel to Qatar. Check if your country is one of them and get more details on the needed travel documents on Qatar’s official portal.
Once you’ve figured out all the details regarding visas, COVID checks, and other documents needed to reach Qatar, it’s time to find a way to actually travel there. Many airlines offer regular flights to the country, depending on where you’re coming from. The most popular airlines are:
- Qatar Airways
- British Airways
- Iberia
- Turkish Airlines
- Sri Lankan Airlines
- Air India
- Japan Airlines
Activities to Enjoy in Qatar’s Cities Hosting the World Cup
The 2022 World Cup will be hosted in 7 cities across the country, as you probably know already. The list includes Doha, Al-Khor, Al-Daayen, Al-Rayyan, Al-Wakrah, Al-Shamal, and Umm Slal. Each city has something different to offer when you’re not at the stadium cheering for your team. If you were hoping for a local casino, unfortunately you’d be out of luck. If you are interested in placing bets on the matches you’ll have to turn to the local online casinos. The local oddsmakers are already starting to make predictions for the tournament.
Doha
Doha is the most appealing city in Qatar, being the country’s capital as well. The city is a multicultural melting-pot that mixes local architecture with modern skyscrapers for an experience you won’t quickly forget.
Sand Dunes
- Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the sand dunes around Doha. You can either rent off-road vehicles and drive through the dunes, experience sandboarding, or hike to lookout spots to see a beautiful sunset.
Pearl Qatar
- Built on a decommissioned pearl diving site, this artificial island is something you can’t miss when in Doha.
Skydiving
- This is a unique experience for the adrenaline seekers – skydive over the desert and spectacular landscape. See the combination of modern and ancient as you float down towards this interesting place.
Al Khor
If you’re enjoying the matches held at the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor then you’re in for a treat. You will be able to enjoy a fantastic beach with endless soft sand or Al Khor island filled with tiny beaches and historic areas. Also, don’t forget about the mangrove forest north of Al Khor if you want some nature filled with flamingos, herons, and other creatures.
Al Rayyan
The second-most-populous city in the country, Al Rayyan is also called the “Gateway towards the desert” for its location. Watching games hosted at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in this city will certainly be exciting. While you’re there don’t miss out on the Arab Museum of Modern Art or the Aspire water park. There’s history and fun for all in Al Rayyan
Final Thoughts
Whether you go to Qatar strictly for football or you’re interested in experiencing its unique culture and astounding cities, this kind of trip is a bucket list experience. Make sure you choose your accommodation wisely so you can focus entirely on making the most of your Middle Eastern experience while cheering for your national football team. Don’t forget to taste some dates while you’re there since they’re a national specialty. Of course, an Arabica coffee is a must after a night of partying to celebrate your team’s victory. Enjoy Qatar, and may the best team win!
The post Complete Travel Guide for Qatar 2022 World Cup appeared first on Travel Experta - Travel, Lifestyle, Freedom.
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By: Marina Villatoro
Title: Complete Travel Guide for Qatar 2022 World Cup
Sourced From: travelexperta.com/complete-travel-guide-for-qatar-2022-world-cup/
Published Date: Thu, 20 Jan 2022 20:14:18 +0000
