The sea, the wind and the view make the picture prefect

Various recreational activities for children are available on the Corniche, including kite-flying.   PICTURE: Joey Aguilar

By Joey Aguilar/Staff ReporterMany of the families in Doha who used to spend their weekend afternoons at Al Rumailah Park have found a new haven on the Corniche, the scenic area near Sheraton park, where kite flying has become a popular activity among children.The visitors find the place more relaxing due to the panoramic view of the whole stretch of the Corniche, sea view and other facilities it offers. “Both are good places for families and friends to bond and have a picnic but the ambiance and atmosphere here (park near Sheraton) is different,” said Haresh Sharma, an expatriate in Qatar for nearly five years.Like other residents who often bring their families to Al Rumailah Park every Friday, he said they were prompted to look for alternatives since the area was fenced for renovation and landscaping.Sharma noted they now spend a considerable time at the park (near Sheraton) which he believes is safe and “perfect” for recreational activities such as biking, kite-flying, scooter-riding, badminton and football.Since it is on the Corniche, he said families and groups can have a few minutes of boat ride for a minimal fee. The expatriate also praised the park for its fitness facilities, free WiFi (internet) connection, and the benches set up in the area.Mona, a housemaid who takes care of two children, echoed the statement of Sharma saying they find the park “refreshing.” “It has a wider place for biking, walking and running. I like the smell of the breeze probably because of the sea,” she noted, adding that they also used to stay at Al Rumailah and other parks in Doha during weekends. But for a young adult like Andre Medrano, he still prefers to be on the Corniche “because of the fresh air and its serenity.” He also told Gulf Times that kite-flying is becoming more popular in the area. “It is something that you will really enjoy especially when it is cold and windy,” he added. As a regular visitor, Medrano sees many parents buy kites for their children. Though the kites seemed to have the same sizes, they only differ in colours and drawings. Kites are sold for QR10 each by individuals who roam around the park.