When we first started to plan our “world tour” trip, we threw out some ideas as to where we wanted to venture. I really wanted to travel to the Middle East and experience a completely different culture and language than what I was used to seeing and hearing in Europe. Sabrina was a little skeptical at first but decided in favor of her older sister.
There is no easy way to make this statement so here it goes. As Americans, we are “brainwashed” in a way to be scared and have this unexplainable animosity toward the Middle East. And I ask you this… why? and says who? I do not want to get into this issue in this post, but I can say what we experienced in Qatar is completely the opposite of what the American media is feeding their citizens. Of course, Sabrina and I are always aware of our surroundings, as we would be in any new country we visit. However, we felt very safe and comfortable.
We were greeted by the kindest people, had the best service in restaurants, and saw the cleanest community spaces. Let me tell you the freeway is lined with green grass and the most gorgeously trimmed palm trees. Every day invited something new into our perspective. With these pristine conditions, combined with a feeling of safety you sometimes do not feel even in the States… we had this running joke of “really scary right?”
Anyone who ventures off to this side of the world, be prepared to be amazed not only by the beauty of the city but by the kind souls who make this country a working and functioning unit. I cannot recommend Qatar enough to anyone who wants a relaxing vacation in warm weather mixed with a sprinkle of city life right on the water.
Cheers,
Kristy
