Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
number of venues around Doha, is the highpoint of a regular calendar of cinema promoted
by the Doha Film Institute. Katara (
Click here
)
is the main hub of activities during the
festival.
Check 'What's On' listings in the newspapers, and especially in
Marhaba, Qatar's
Premier Information Guide
(published quarterly) for a month-by-month guide to Doha's
busy calendar.
Sleeping
There is some excellent accommodation in Doha, particularly at top-end resorts, which of-
fer wonderful views and beach locations, especially in the West Bay area. Cheaper accom-
modation is conveniently located near Souq Waqif, although none of the options could be
termed genuinely 'budget'. The basic men-only budget hotels are intended largely for Asi-
an expats and are not reviewed by Lonely Planet.
All rooms at the hotels reviewed have air-conditioning, a TV (normally satellite), fridge
and bathroom but do not include breakfast unless stated.
Top-end prices quoted are rack rates. Discounts and special deals can often be negoti-
ated, especially during summer.
Qatar Palace Hotel$
HOTEL
( 44 421 515;
www.qatarpal.com.qa
; 44 Al-Asmakh St; s/d QR370/450; )
The commodious rooms in
pastel shades with large sofas are homely and comfortable but beware, some rooms are
virtually windowless. The Maharajah Restaurant, with a chef from Mumbai, is a local fa-
vourite.
Al-Nakheel Hotel$
HOTEL
( 44 283 221;
www.alnakheel-hotel.com
; 101 Al-Asmakh St; s/d QR350/450)
With the proposed expan-
sion of Souq Waqif, this basic hotel with mirrored ceilings in the corridors, may soon be
given a new lease of life. Ask to see a room to avoid a view onto a brick wall.
Al-Bustan Hotel$$
BOUTIQUE HOTEL