Our South African Safari was our Christmas gift from my in-laws, and with it, came some business class seats. While we do a mix of business and economy in our travels, for a trip like this, business was VERY nice. Qatar will also do a stopover program, where they will even put you up for a couple nights in Qatar on your way to your destination. A stopover helped us get acclimated to the time change, recharge, and rest a bit before the early safari game drives.
I have to speak a little about Qatar business class because it deserves its own post! As you can see below, I was quite comfortable! lol. We flew over in their Qsuites, which was the nicest business class I have been on. We did the quad with the boys, so we were all connected. You can also be completely shut off, if you don’t know the person to your right or left. On one side of the quad, they’ll even make your bed together. The food was great for airplane food – I had lobster! The service was excellent, and the bathrooms were constantly being cleaned in between guests. Then we arrived at the Qatar airport, which is easily the most beautiful airport I’ve been in. The cherry on top is that they have an arrivals business/first lounge. Going through customs there with a coffee in hand, with no line, blew my mind. When we flew back through Doha, I was pretty sad our connection wasn’t longer. Their lounge was incredible. With a spa (!!), gym, private family rooms, private sleeping areas, a sit down spot to order food, a gameroom, and plenty of spots to rest. Plus, the shopping is insane! I’ll go back through or to Doha anytime (:
WHERE WE STAYED ON A STOPOVER IN DOHA
I ended up booking Four Seasons Doha through AMEX on points. It was a deal as far as Four Seasons go. Plus, when you book through AMEX you get $100 resort credit, and breakfast.
There is a newer four seasons, The Pearl, but it was further from the airport. That one is supposed to be incredible!
But for what we needed – a recharge before the Safari, this spot was perfect and service was lovely.
During your stay at Four Seasons properties you have complimentary access to the spa and fitness. I swear by a little workout to combat jet lag! I did a 30 minute guided walk/run on a technogym tread, some weights followed by some time in the spa. We did the full water circuit – hydropools, hot tubs, cold plunges, hot rooms, steam rooms, sauna, and ice shower. We felt good as new after that!
WHAT WE DID AND WHERE WE ATE IN DOHA
The sole purpose of the trip was to catch up a little on sleep and recharge. We loved the spa and pools, and even the beach there!
On our first night, we dined at Nobu, conveniently located on the Four Seasons property. The adults enjoyed the tasting menu, while the kids loved their dishes so much they ordered seconds. Everything was excellent!
Since our time was limited, we didn’t venture too far. Another evening, we ate at Curiosa by Jean-Georges, which was fantastic as well. The breakfast buffet was also a highlight—full of Middle Eastern flavors I love. The labneh alone was worth it.
For a bit of adventure, we went on a sand-duning excursion arranged through the hotel, about an hour outside the city. Watching the sun set over the dunes was absolutely stunning. The boys loved the ride! It felt like a roller coaster in the sand! (If you’re sensitive to that sensation, you may want to skip it.) We also had the chance to ride camels and even hold a falcon, which made the experience unforgettable.
I did have a lot of questions about safety in Doha via Instagram. We felt very safe, and our guides all loved living there, citing just how safe they felt.
I hope if you get the chance to visit Doha, you take it. I’m already wondering when we will get more time there!
