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Desert
safaris and sailing trips After weeks
of exotic destinations in Sri Lanka, the Times Travel Quiz takes
you Yes, we've
got a wonderful offer for all Sunday Times readers in association
with Qatar Airways. If you've always been fascinated by the desert
regions of the world, here's your chance to see them for yourself.
In our exciting travel competition this week, you could win a free
air ticket to Doha (on economy class) plus two nights hotel accommodation
in Doha, the capital of Qatar and a half-day city tour as well,
all courtesy Qatar Airways. All you have
to do is answer the question given on the coupon and watch out for
next week's coupon appearing in our Travel page. Answer the question
in the second coupon as well and mail the two coupons together to: The Times Travel
Quiz 4, Remember all entries must be on the original coupons published on this page. Photocopies will not be accepted. Please note the winner's ticket is subject to space availability and is not transferable. Employees of Wijeya Newspapers Ltd, and the Delmege Forsyth Group are not eligible to take part in this competition
2) B.P. Roshan
Anuruddha Wijepala 3)K.Illukkumbara
Situated halfway
along the west coast of the Gulf, Qatar, rich in culture and history
is today considered one of the most progressive and politically
stable of Arab countries, owing to its open minded policies, that
have resulted in increased recognition internationally. A peninsula
that extends into the Arabian Gulf, Qatar enjoys a close affinity
with the sea, many of its families having descended from fishermen
and pearl divers. Its ample natural
resources such as petroleum and gas, the third largest in the world
after Russia and Iran have contributed to rapid development of the
country, which is fast becoming a 21st century state, rich in culture. There's an
exciting array of attractions for visitors to this exotic destination.
'Must-see' attractions in Doha include: *A short cruise
by Dhow, a traditional boat that takes you to the Palm Tree Island.
The island located in Doha Bay has sandy beaches and amusement rides
and is a popular weekend destination *Don't miss
the ships of the desert in action. Yes, the camel racing can be
watched from a seat in the grandstand at the Al-Shahaniya race course.
*The Al Koot
Fort in the centre of Doha that exhibits wood carving, weaving and
painting is an example of traditional architecture and gypsum work. *Doha Corniche
is a beautifully landscaped walk that extends almost 10 kilometres
along the shoreline of Doha Bay. *Along with
the usual zoo animals, the Doha zoo also has a wide selection of
regional animals in environmental settings similar to their original
habitats. *An amazing
display of archaeological discoveries and artifacts can be viewed
at the Qatar National Museum, while the Weaponry Museum has exhibits
dating back to the 16th Century. *A tour to
the Doha souqs (markets) is a must where you can have fun bargaining
for your purchases, be it fish, falconry, gold or camels. *The finest
pure-bred Arabian show and race horses are housed at the Al Shaquab
Stud, also famous for its architectural design and landscaping. *The national
animal of Qatar, the Oryx live in protected herds and can be visited
at the Oryx farm. Having a desert
climate that is very hot in summer months with limited rainfall
does not hinder holiday making in Qatar. There are many sports events,
cultural activities and exhibitions scheduled throughout the year
that would appeal to international visitors. In addition to the
city tours and desert safaris, fishing trips, sailing trips, sunset
barbecues, shopping and entertainment are ideal for the entire family.
These events
centre around religious holidays and the many international sporting
events that Qatar plays host to, including golf, squash and tennis
tournaments. Doha's Championship
Golf Course, the best in the Gulf is a lush green course, a real
oasis in the desert and the pride and joy of Doha. As most of
these facilities and multi-cuisine hotels meet global standards,
Qatar is a favoured location not only for tourists but also for
business meetings and conferences. |
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Ltd. All rights reserved. |
overseas,
to the Middle East.
tourist
destination where you can enjoy everything from camel racing to
a quiet walk along a sandy beach. 
