Food - Dining at Amara

The souq (literally translated as ‘market’) not only offers a multitude of goods to purchase but is a great spot for trying foods from cuisines around the world. I enjoy swinging by Nakhchivan’s for their Azerbaijani breakfast or picking up some Szechuan Chicken from The Rice & Noodle in the evening. My favourite dessert is the baklava from Al Hallab and don’t miss the karak chai (spiced tea) from Teatime. No matter how many parks I visit, I always find myself gravitating back to MIA Park. Set beside the stunning Museum of Islamic Art, this park has one of the most picturesque coffee shops where I enjoy an incredible view of the Doha skyline. Alternatively, I like to bring a picnic basket and a book as I unwind on the grass after a long day at work.

My Qatar

Aneesa is an international educator and expat writer @expatpanda

When I need my book fix, I head to Qatar National Library. It offers an amazing ambience with a massive selection of books for literature lovers!

The undulating ripples in the soft sand at Zekreet must be visited when in Qatar. This is my new favourite spot where I enjoy climbing up the dunes to admire panoramic views of the desert while calming my mind. W hile most people know of Qatar through their airline, Qatar happens to be the 5th country I call home. It is a surprising mix of adventure and relaxation, while incorporating chaos and culture! It’s an underrated country that defies existence, nestled between the warm Arabian Sea and the scorching desert. While I initially moved to Qatar for love, I rediscovered my professional passion here and have been teaching at an international school for 2 years. Qatar actually offers many work opportunities for qualified and experienced professionals. One of my goals while living in Qatar is to explore this country to its fullest; my other goals include sharing my experiences through my blog and Instagram, helping other expats and inspiring other teachers to move abroad.

A haven away from the city, Purple Island is a mosaic of mesmerizing turquoise and emerald water interspersed with winding mangrove forests. I love to go kayaking here particularly around sunset time to enjoy some solitude on the water while admiring the sky awash with colour.