Camping in Qatar

For any readers anticipating a stopover in Qatar, here is an interesting alternative to the usual 5-star hotel. How about a night of camping in the desert?

I camped in Qatar in early November ’06 with Arabian Adventures (P.O. Box 4476, Doha, Qatar; phone 974 4361461, fax 974 4361471 or visit www.arabianadventureqatar.com), which offers day and overnight packages that include all meals and accommodations. Their prices were QR200 (near $55) for a half-day; QR265 ($73), full day, and QR350 ($96), overnight.

Actually, my camping was part of an all-inclusive tour with Advantage Travel & Tours (12625 Gate Dr., Poway, CA 92064; phone 800/882-2098 or e-mail advantaget@aol.com).

The 4WD trip to the campsite was an adventure in itself! There was even the opportunity to experience sandboarding (easier than snowboarding!). I did try it. I did not do the optional camel trek, as I’ve done that before.

SETH BRIAN SHERMAN

Thomasville, GA