Every New Year usually unfolds itself with a plethora of dreams, aspirations and resolutions. For us, 2010 started with an excellent phenomenon. 

Our project is through its final stages. Major works stand completed far ahead of schedule. Therefore, in a huge company with thousands of employees mainstream has already left. Hence, Christmas season had its peak of farewell parties as well.

From the few that is left behind, cream from various divisions have been pooled together to form the final hand over team.   

With an effort to facilitate better group dynamics, our company sponsored a one day tour to Doha, the capital city of Qatar, which is about 100 kms from our work site. It was indeed a wonderful team building opportunity. 

After a unique New Year eve filled with dance and music, which spanned far after midnight, we started our trip to Doha early the next morning. Inspite of a late night celebration, we were in high spirits to welcome the New Year with all its magnanimity. 

The sight and sound of beach and sand shores of Mesaieed opened ourselves to a relaxing state. Age gave way. We became so youthful. So much, so that, many played like small kids on the sand hills of Mesaieed. There were many visitors there on the beautiful sand beach of Mesaieed. This is one of the popular, yet small beaches in Doha. 

Rocking riders along the sand hill were the stunning sight there. The hard wind never makes us stop the outing. It was a rare sight of beautiful seashore, conserved for posterity. The blue serene sea seemed to be embracing the sky azure away. Fresh cool wind energized our mind and body. The sea line, the surf and blue sky, the serene sand tops lifted our moods in a rejuvenating manner.  

Spacious Doha zoo was also attractive. Everyone was in awe at the artistic arrangement of zoo and near to natural habitat feel for hundreds of animals and birds. Many of the animals have large enclosures; while some others were in their cages. There are some native Qatari species, including ostriches and Oryx. Along with a good collection of birds, the zoo is also habitat to baboons and chimpanzees.  

Being a holiday, there were many visitors including children. Many of those visiting also enjoyed the train ride around the park. 

Design of caves and replication of natural scenarios gives the zoo special attraction. It is definitely one of the greenest locations in Doha.  

The evening beauty of Doha Corniche encrypted in our minds a memorable classic portrait of architectural eminence. Pearl Monument in itself, especially when illuminated, is quite captivating and needs special mention. 

Doha Corniche is a waterfront walkway along Doha Bay. It is a seven-kilometer stretch of coastline. It runs parallel to the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf, with numerous skyscrapers to its North. Walkers and runners, as well as the more adventurous roller-bladers mostly occupy the south side.  

The Corniche has a broad pavement and many can stroll along comfortably. We can also quickly unwind in the green lawn patches and soak into the waterfront atmosphere.

The Corniche begins near the newly constructed Museum of Islamic Art, and ends at the Sheraton Park near the distinctive pyramid-shaped Sheraton Hotel.

Many of Doha's landmarks exist along the Corniche adding to its attraction. 

Doha is a cultural and commercial hub for many civilizations. Westerners and traditional Arab community co-exists in this small world, harmoniously. Innovative thinking and liberal outlook of Qatar attracts many foreigners here. Doha is growing to be Middle East’s one of the best tourist destinations and a home for peace loving people. 

Efforts to landscape and maintain desert beauty with all its pristine glory is noteworthy.  Immense hard work and dedication made by Qatar authorities, was evident all through the journey. It has been Herculean a task to establish plants and greenery in this desert land with rough weather. 

This holiday trip was an exciting day for all of our staff irrespective of age.  

Music, dance and lot of fun excited us. Celebration knew no bounds. Child like innocence and enthusiasm oozed out of every pore. It was nourishment. It was an energy boosting exercise, forgetting all duties and responsibilities for one single day.  

Normally, weekend or holiday trips to Doha were always in a tight schedule.  

However, on this special occasion, time was not a constraint. Everyone expanded into their natural human self, exhibiting their talents, skills, appreciations and mutually caring attitudes. Within no time, all members of the team became personally close.  

The blessings of friendship, the spirit of journey, sharing of jokes and expression of team spirit were all so unique. The sweet memoirs of the trip would naturally be long lasting.

Every journey makes us feel refreshed. Every trip presents us new thought and new ideas for better planning of our lives. Every positive opportunity motivates us to look into the future, with zest and zeal…

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