miss b loves ....... Doha, Qatar, a city of contrasts (Part 2)

After our stroll along the Corniche, the fascinating tour of The Museum of Islamic Art and lunch with a spectacular view, we made our way to Souq Waqif (You can read Part 1 of our Doha trip here)

 Souk Waqif literally means standing market ...... With the threat of floods from the sea, many traders in the past would conduct their business standing and sometimes they would be in water up to their ankles! There's been a market on this site for 250 years and it's where the Bedouin gathered to trade sheep and goats for essential items. In 2004 the area was restored without losing its unique character.

This is very much a souk for locals too with everything on sale from pots and pans to gorgeous fabric, toys and pets!

There's no hard-sell here. The souk has a relaxed, friendly feel and I was mesmerised by the vibrant colours .......

and the vast array of goods on sale .......

Traditional coffee pots 
and brass-studded chests

The police on horseback looked so dapper ....

miss b loves ....... Doha, Qatar, a city of contrasts (Part 1)

Having read about the rapidly developing city of Doha, the capital of Qatar,  we decided to take a closer look as it's just a one hour flight from Dubai so ...... during our recent week in Dubai we headed over there ......

Qatar  is a constitutional monarchy ruled by the Al Thani family since the 19th century and it tops the list of the world's richest countries per capita by Forbes.

Urban development is more restrained than Dubai but it's an ambitious country and is due to host the 2022 World Cup. 

It's a fascinating, contradictory place with both traditional culture and futuristic buildings. The iconic Doha Tower (Burj Doha) was designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel ...... 

....and the beautiful, intricate façade was inspired by ancient Islamic screens .......

A quick tour of the Msheireb Enrichment Centre was a good starting point and gave us an insight into the history of Qatar ....

.......and its plans for the future. It's impressive that they are keen to retain their culture and traditions whilst at the same time embracing the modern world.

Wherever we went we received a warm welcome and as we strolled along the Corniche everyone we passed either greeted us with a 'Good Morning' or a wave!

Along this sweeping promenade with its palm trees and manicured lawns there are outdoor gyms ...

Now that's what I call a gym with a view!

Along the Corniche, walls are covered in colourful mosaics which depict Qatar's history, traditions and wildlife........

miss b loves........ Taksim, Beyoğlu Istanbul

 

A trip to Istanbul would not be complete without a day in Taksim, Beyoğlu the heart of Istanbul starting with a stroll around the Gelata district. There are beautiful old houses and buildings, cafés, quirky shops selling handicrafts including colourful pottery and stylish boutiques. Galata Tower is the most impressive monument of the district with its 360 degree view of the city from the top.

One of the gorgeous boutiques
 with an eclectic mix
 of inexpensive jewellery and discounted
designer clothes. 

Galata Tower

Amazing 360 views from the top of Galata Tower

                              
From Galata we made our way to Tünel Square and then continued along the İstiklâl Caddesi (Independence Avenue) which is pedestrianised (apart from the trams!)and has 2.5 kilometres of shops, cafés, pâtisseries, restaurants, bars and clubs, as well as bookshops, theatres, cinemas and art galleries.