Al Ghariya Outing
Al Ghariya Resort Entrance
We had an outing on November 16, our very first since we came to Qatar. Thanks to our friend Sandro for inviting us to join his family, along with his Filipino colleagues and their familes. It was supposed to be an overnight thing but having realized that bringing along a bunch of kids on an overnight would be too much of a hassle, it was decided that we should only spend an afternoon there. Our destination, Al Ghariya Resort, an hour drive from Doha. Once there, everybody (about 20 people, including kids) settled in a 2-bedroom porta cabin that we rented. We each shared a certain amount to pay for the 1000QR rent for the day.
Inside the porta-cabin
Some played the Guitar
Each family brought along food and each one had a taste of everything. There more than enough food to last the night, among the bestsellers were Kuya Edgar's chicken barbecue, which is one of the best bbq's that I have ever tasted. I think I had about 5 pieces.
The resort was okay. It's a nice getaway for families with kids since they have a playground, a mini aviary, and bicycles for rent. The kids, as well as some of the adults, enjoyed playing in the playground.
The kids getting dizzy while playing
Sandro getting all crazy
The only catch is that it lacks a beach front. We even had to go out of the resort just to be able to go to the beach. Some of us just had to get into the salty water despite the very cool breeze and the ice-cold water. Even my daugther and her friend Princess had a blast playing on the sand with their shovels and pails. It's also a shame that nobody got the chance to use the pools because it was closed. The person in charge wasn't available, a lame excuse isn't it?
Enjoying the Beach
Nonetheless, everybody had a good time. At the end of the day, every family had their own doggy bag for take home as there was so much food brought. As a matter of fact, we have yet to celebrate our Christmas party in a similar if not the same resort. Only this time it will be overnight and I bet nobody will dare plunge into the water.
You can view more of our photos on our Gallery. For those who want a copy of all the photos, I'll be giving Sandro a copy of the photos so you can probably give him a CD or a DVD so he can make you a copy.