DOHA, Qatar (MindaNews / 18 February) — Qatar is blessed with a beautiful gift from the Almighty Allāh – the winter season – a time of wonder and awe. The cold and crisp air brings a sense of calm and serenity to the mind, body, and soul, providing a much-needed respite from the scorching heat of the summer months. With its peaceful and tranquil beauty, the winter season is a true blessing that fills my heart with comfort and joy.
I have not yet had the opportunity to visit any Western or European country that experiences harsh winter temperatures, as seen in the news and social media. However, from the images and stories I have come across, it seems that the winter in this country is relatively mild and tolerable compared with the others.
Winter in Qatar is a highly anticipated season among citizens and residents. With its cool breeze and serene ambiance, it provides an excellent opportunity for people to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. The best time to experience this atmosphere is before sunset, nightfall, dawn, and early morning. It’s amazing how the winter season in Qatar is loved by so many, including myself.
During the winter season, Qatar offers a range of delightful activities that my fellow overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families can enjoy. From winter camping to other enjoyable experiences, there is no shortage of fun-filled options that can help alleviate homesickness.
I love to indulge in the pleasures that this season has to offer. The first time I went overnight winter camping with my closest friends in the Inland Sea, a breathtakingly beautiful and tranquil tourist attraction in Qatar situated at the Qatar-Saudi Arabia border, I immediately fell in love with it. Being surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of city life instantly relieved all of my stress.
As I lay on the cold dunes, I looked up at the sky and was mesmerized by the glistening stars and bright moon shining in the darkness of the night. Upon seeing the stars glistening in the sky, I realized how much city lights had obscured them. It felt like they were saying, “Long time no see.” This experience was truly inspiring, and ever since then, winter camping has become a regular activity for me.
When winter comes around, I get excited about camping with my closest friends. We discuss plans and get hyped up. We always go on Friday night because most of us are off work the next day. Our destination is mostly the Inland Sea. Likewise, we camped on the beach overnight, giving us an unforgettable experience of nature’s beauty and serenity.
Moreover, I have some cousins in Qatar who are also avid campers, and whenever they invite us for a winter camping trip, I know it will be a blast. The best part is that our aunts who come to visit Qatar join us, too, and it’s always a fun-filled outdoor adventure that we cherish forever.
During our winter camping trip, we bring warm blankets, hot drinks such as Kahawa Sūg, and delicious native food to keep us cozy and satisfied. We also take the time to check in on how everyone is doing and engage in conversation. When it’s time to rest, we sleep inside the tent. Winter camping is a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories with loved ones.
I recall how frequently my friends and I used to go winter camping. Nevertheless, things have changed this year. Most of my friends are occupied with their personal lives and cannot readily join us for our usual winter camping trip. Despite this, I am grateful that my beloved wife and sister are here with me in Qatar, and this time, we are the ones who are camping.
Winter camping has become a remarkable opportunity for OFWs to strengthen family ties, relax, and detach from work-related pressure. It’s truly inspiring to see how they can enjoy themselves and find peace in this outdoor activity. However, every camper must never forget that Qatar is a country that places great emphasis on the protection and preservation of its natural environment. As such, it is important to note that activities such as lighting fires directly on the sand, whether for bonfires or grilling, are strictly prohibited. Additionally, throwing garbage anywhere is prohibited, and violators will face legal consequences.
Alhamdu Lillāh, Qatar, is well-known for being a safe Muslim country, making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, even in remote locations like the Inland Sea.
Camping in Qatar at night is an enjoyable and safe experience due to the high safety measures the local authorities take to safeguard residents and visitors, even in remote areas. This is particularly important for camping trips, where people can relax and enjoy their surroundings without fear or worry. Likewise, it’s reassuring to know that, in an emergency, Qatar’s land and air ambulances are available to provide prompt response and necessary medical attention.
O darkest night, so hush, you are profound!
How blessed you are gifted with lots of inspiration
Ornamenting twinkling stars and shining moon
Inspiring millions of people with blue emotion
O crashing Waves, keep wafting!
With the sea breeze cool, join us in laughing
In moments of narration, intently listening
Unspoken words of you are consoling
O brewed Kahawa Sūg, my warm company!
With Wadjit and Panyam I feel the glee
On the seashore eating my fave Satti
What a priceless moment so blissfully!
Inside my lovely tent, lying lethargic
At my back, a wintry sand so tenderly
Bonding so grand even simply
Descends in heart and mind tranquility
With my beloved in winter camping
Truly therapeutic, romantic bliss, relaxing
Along the shoreline, birds are tweeting
Surely, God-given gift for body-mind-soul healing.
(Mindanawon Abroad is MindaNews’ effort to link up with Mindanawons overseas who would like to share their experiences in their adopted countries. Gamson Jr Mawallil Quijano of Sulu is a registered Radiologic Technologist who works in Doha, Qatar).
MINDANAWON ABROAD
TAUSUG IN DOHA: Winter camping is a great stress reliever
Gamson Jr Mawallil Quijano
DOHA, Qatar (MindaNews / 18 February) — Qatar is blessed with a beautiful gift from the Almighty Allāh – the winter season – a time of wonder and awe. The cold and crisp air brings a sense of calm and serenity to the mind, body, and soul, providing a much-needed respite from the scorching heat of the summer months. With its peaceful and tranquil beauty, the winter season is a true blessing that fills my heart with comfort and joy.
I have not yet had the opportunity to visit any Western or European country that experiences harsh winter temperatures, as seen in the news and social media. However, from the images and stories I have come across, it seems that the winter in this country is relatively mild and tolerable compared with the others.
Winter in Qatar is a highly anticipated season among citizens and residents. With its cool breeze and serene ambiance, it provides an excellent opportunity for people to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. The best time to experience this atmosphere is before sunset, nightfall, dawn, and early morning. It’s amazing how the winter season in Qatar is loved by so many, including myself.
During the winter season, Qatar offers a range of delightful activities that my fellow overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families can enjoy. From winter camping to other enjoyable experiences, there is no shortage of fun-filled options that can help alleviate homesickness.
I love to indulge in the pleasures that this season has to offer. The first time I went overnight winter camping with my closest friends in the Inland Sea, a breathtakingly beautiful and tranquil tourist attraction in Qatar situated at the Qatar-Saudi Arabia border, I immediately fell in love with it. Being surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of city life instantly relieved all of my stress.
As I lay on the cold dunes, I looked up at the sky and was mesmerized by the glistening stars and bright moon shining in the darkness of the night. Upon seeing the stars glistening in the sky, I realized how much city lights had obscured them. It felt like they were saying, “Long time no see.” This experience was truly inspiring, and ever since then, winter camping has become a regular activity for me.
When winter comes around, I get excited about camping with my closest friends. We discuss plans and get hyped up. We always go on Friday night because most of us are off work the next day. Our destination is mostly the Inland Sea. Likewise, we camped on the beach overnight, giving us an unforgettable experience of nature’s beauty and serenity.
The Inland Sea dunes are a sight to behold. Though the climb may be challenging, the reward of reaching the peak is truly awe-inspiring. | Photo by Gamson Jr Mawallil Quijano.
Moreover, I have some cousins in Qatar who are also avid campers, and whenever they invite us for a winter camping trip, I know it will be a blast. The best part is that our aunts who come to visit Qatar join us, too, and it’s always a fun-filled outdoor adventure that we cherish forever.
During our winter camping trip, we bring warm blankets, hot drinks such as Kahawa Sūg, and delicious native food to keep us cozy and satisfied. We also take the time to check in on how everyone is doing and engage in conversation. When it’s time to rest, we sleep inside the tent. Winter camping is a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories with loved ones.
I recall how frequently my friends and I used to go winter camping. Nevertheless, things have changed this year. Most of my friends are occupied with their personal lives and cannot readily join us for our usual winter camping trip. Despite this, I am grateful that my beloved wife and sister are here with me in Qatar, and this time, we are the ones who are camping.
Winter camping has become a remarkable opportunity for OFWs to strengthen family ties, relax, and detach from work-related pressure. It’s truly inspiring to see how they can enjoy themselves and find peace in this outdoor activity. However, every camper must never forget that Qatar is a country that places great emphasis on the protection and preservation of its natural environment. As such, it is important to note that activities such as lighting fires directly on the sand, whether for bonfires or grilling, are strictly prohibited. Additionally, throwing garbage anywhere is prohibited, and violators will face legal consequences.
Relaxing on top of the picturesque dunes at Inland Sea. It’s absolutely delightful here! | Photo by Gamson Jr Mawallil Quijano.
Alhamdu Lillāh, Qatar, is well-known for being a safe Muslim country, making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, even in remote locations like the Inland Sea.
Camping in Qatar at night is an enjoyable and safe experience due to the high safety measures the local authorities take to safeguard residents and visitors, even in remote areas. This is particularly important for camping trips, where people can relax and enjoy their surroundings without fear or worry. Likewise, it’s reassuring to know that, in an emergency, Qatar’s land and air ambulances are available to provide prompt response and necessary medical attention.
O darkest night, so hush, you are profound!
How blessed you are gifted with lots of inspiration
Ornamenting twinkling stars and shining moon
Inspiring millions of people with blue emotion
O crashing Waves, keep wafting!
With the sea breeze cool, join us in laughing
In moments of narration, intently listening
Unspoken words of you are consoling
O brewed Kahawa Sūg, my warm company!
With Wadjit and Panyam I feel the glee
On the seashore eating my fave Satti
What a priceless moment so blissfully!
Inside my lovely tent, lying lethargic
At my back, a wintry sand so tenderly
Bonding so grand even simply
Descends in heart and mind tranquility
With my beloved in winter camping
Truly therapeutic, romantic bliss, relaxing
Along the shoreline, birds are tweeting
Surely, God-given gift for body-mind-soul healing.
(Mindanawon Abroad is MindaNews’ effort to link up with Mindanawons overseas who would like to share their experiences in their adopted countries. Gamson Jr Mawallil Quijano of Sulu is a registered Radiologic Technologist who works in Doha, Qatar).
