Hello folks,

This is my first blog so be gentle with me.

Arrived in Doha on Thursday – imagine a large construction site in the middle of the desert which is gradually being transformed into a millionaire’s playground, where Western ex-pats and migrant workers from the sub-continent outnumber the natives 5-1, and you’re getting the picture.

Qatar has a population of 1 million (85% in Doha) and the highest average GDP in the world. I’ve seen no crime, no begging (but labour is extremely cheap), 4,000 beautiful hotels and 6 million massive Jeeps plus the odd Jag. Just like Delhi, then.

Stelios and Hee-Jong are looking after us very well – we had a tour of Doha and its COWS (cell cites on wheels, silly) yesterday, lunch in a mall built to look like the place that looks like Venice that’s in Las Vegas, and a lovely night out with booze and everything in an open air sky bar. Only £14 for a glass of wine. We also visited the museum of Islamic art, which was fascinating and beautiful.

Oh, and did I mention the pool and sauna on the top floor of the apartment building? That’s fascinating and beautiful too.

We’re off for a 4×4 tour of the desert this afternoon and we fly out to Delhi tomorrow for some proper luxury. I can’t sing off though, without mentioning that Qatar has an IRISH BAR. Is nowhere safe?

Toilets – 8/10 (marked down for lack of amusing trademarks like shower hose etc)  Food – 9/10 (amazing Sri Lankan buffet last night)