(This is a trip report about flying business class, using 135,000 AA miles and paying $43, on Qatar Airlines. We stayed at the St. Regis, using the Citi credit card fourth night free benefit and one night at the Hilton Doubletree booked with points)!
We were busy in Doha and here is our “To Do” list over a period of days! First on the list, shopping in the souk…the fabrics there are simply amazing and SO inexpensive! I went to a variety of shops and bought three different fabrics. The 100% cotton is like silk! I had a pattern of a dress I wanted tailored, ie, a picture from a magazine, so I was thrilled to get some fabric that would work perfect. These souks have everything imaginable, birds, lots of animals for sale, spices, a falconry, definitely not your everyday shopping experience!
We also went to the Villagio Mall, which was beautiful, with gondoliers on a canal, like Venice! Here are some photos…
That night, we went to an outdoor exhibit at Katara, a park area by the sea, and we saw an Arab man buy this red Ferrari! Money seems to be in abundance over there! Later, we met my son’s friend and ate at an Asian Fusion restaurant at the Four Seasons. The food in Doha is fantastic! Every fancy hotel you can think of is there and they all have four or more restaurants. Here are some pictures of the Four Seasons, we were too busy talking and eating to get any food pictures! 
Malls are a big thing in the Middle East, but not particularly a big thing for me, BUT in the name of research, I went to Lagoona Mall, but it wasn’t nearly as spectacular as the Villagio, as you can see…
One day was just beautiful, so we decided to relax beside the pool. The water was TOO cold for me, but I loved the sunshine in December! I had read about Banana Island, so we made dinner reservations and went there for dinner; it was SO MUCH FOOD and super delicious! (Sorry, I was eating too fast, but I did get one photo)! 
My son has a tailor he really likes, but he doesn’t do women’s clothes…we went anyway and he kindly agreed to make my dress from the picture! (I’m a seamstress, but I do need a pattern and I am a bit rusty, so I was thrilled)! The cost? $24! I love the way these tailors keep all their info – the old fashioned way, in a BOOK! We went to the Museum of Islamic Art, and it has a huge collection. It’s worth a visit just the see the building design by architect I.M. Pei. 
I wanted to be closer to the airport for an early morning departure, so we moved to the new Hilton Doubletree, paid for by points. Here’s some pictures of the room and the rooftop restaurant, where we went for New Year’s Eve my last night in Doha. It was a great trip and the best part was spending time with my son! (: 
Next up, a quick weekend to “Music City,” using one of my favorite travel deals, the Southwest Companion Pass.
How FUN!!! And I cannot wait to see the dress made just for you! Did they do it while you were there, or will it be mailed to you? I can’t wait! I love the fabric. It’s funny because I recently read an article about the 100% cotton fabric that comes from London is nothing like our 100% cotton here… it is buttery soft I guess. So I’d love to see what the fabric you purchased is like.
Wish we could see you while you’re in Music City, USA! Have a great time and I hope the weather is good.
Hugs.
Dori
Dori, No, I left it and Garrett will bring it. All they had was the picture, my measurements, and a few scribbled ideas added to the photo. I can’t wait to see it! They are pros and YES, that’s a great description of the 100% cotton – it was hard not to buy more fabric. And their poly is also like silk. We have nothing to compare to it. Thanks for all the comments!
Once again I am swept away by your photos and descriptions. I so look forward to your posts! Malls are not my thing either, but I don’t think I would mind visiting a few of those. 🙂 Also, I’ve done a lot of research on Christian Dior of late because I am fascinated by the concept of an atelier and master craftspeople being able to live their art. You have so many one of a kind dresses sewn at ateliers all over the world, Ellen! You should have an exhibit! Love your posts…love you more!
Melissa, I love all your comments and ideas about Christian Dior and love you to the library and back (and you know how I love libraries)!! (:
Beautiful photos and another magic adventure for you! Love reading the posts,Ellen! Dinner soon to learn more about your visit, ok?
Ann
Ann, thanks and YES, dinner soon!