Qatar

In 2011 I embarked on an impromptu visit of several Persian Gulf countries, buying one way tickets along the way and showing up for unannounced visits with precious little pre-planning. I was literally flying by the seat of my pants for a few weeks, staying in each country just long enough to see the highlights before moving on. As one of the more progressive and modern of the region's nations, Qatar was one of the countries I was looking forward to visiting most.

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DOH = Doha, Qatar. For fans of The Simpsons, best three-letter airport code ever!

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Qatar has some of the most beautiful, colorful currency I've ever seen.

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The incredible lobby of the Grand Hyatt Doha, my home in Qatar for a few days.

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Cruising around the hotel grounds, amazing pictures around every turn.

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It was dark by the time I got settled in my room, but I still thought the view from my veranda was breathtaking.

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The view down below was just as tempting when the sun came up the next day.

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Sunrise over the Persian Gulf.

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Some shots from inside the Museum of Islamic Art.
There was a bit of a dust storm outside that day, so enjoying the beauty indoors seemed like the perfect diversion.

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Doha is most famous for its dazzling Corniche
a pleasant walk of a couple miles with some of the world's most innovative architecture designs lining the path.

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Pearl farming was the mainstay of the Gulf countries before oil was discovered,
and many of these countries have monuments to commemorate this part of their shared history.

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Qatar is one of the most progressive Arab countries. I found it refreshing to see huge displays like this along the Corniche.

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This sign made me smile. Notice how the black silhouetted figure is wearing proper Arab attire.

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A couple local women stroll the Corniche.

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The distinctively shaped Sheraton Doha Resort, one of Doha's best-known landmarks.
I was still staying at the Grand Hyatt, but I wanted to stop by and check out this property as well.

The inside of the Sheraton is a golden feast for the eyes.

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A little remembrance of where I was when I heard the good news! :)

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Leaving Qatar, the exit immigration queue complete with separate lane for fully veiled women.

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A quick last glimpse of Doha's Corniche from the air.