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My Qatar Airways QR42 flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) suffered an unexpected five-hour delay at departure—an exceedingly rare occurrence for QR, a paragon of punctuality. It quickly became apparent that my tight connection in Doha Hahmad (DOH) would be impossible to make, ensuring my arrival in Vietnam would be precisely 24 hours behind schedule.

Now, while some might have found this an inconvenience, I was in no particular rush. In fact, the unexpected layover turned out to be a blessing in disguise, granting me a delightful stopover in Doha, my favorite city in the Persian Gulf, second only to Muscat, Oman.

And the best part? Qatar Airways covered it all. Beyond the rather uninspiring meal voucher redeemable at Paul (where everything glistens with excess butter) or Starbucks (serving arguably the most lamentable coffee on Earth), the airline provided an entirely complimentary stopover package. This included a night’s stay with late checkout at the excellent Holiday Villa Hotel & Residence, all meals included, and seamless transfers between the airport and hotel.

As if that weren’t generous enough, Qatar Airways promptly compensated me €600 for the delay, which landed in my bank account within a week—efficiency at its finest.

For an airline consistently crowned the world’s best (five stars on Skytrax, no less), such impeccable service comes as no surprise. And so, rather than lamenting a missed connection, I found myself savoring the serendipity of an unplanned Doha interlude—a journey commencing under the most auspicious of circumstances.




Doha. The very sound of its name – sharp, almost metallic – evokes an undeniable sense of luxury, a promise of opulence that, upon arrival, proves to be more than just an illusion. The city’s perfection is apparent, and yet, rather than feeling sterile, it exudes a quiet confidence, an elegance that is both timeless and contemporary. The streets, so meticulously clean and well-ordered, create an environment where everything seems to function with seamless precision. In these pristine surroundings, there’s a sense of tranquility, a rare calm in the midst of modernity.




Souk Waqif, however, is where Doha truly reveals its soul. Nestled in the heart of the city, the souq is a treasure trove of traditional attire, aromatic spices, intricate handicrafts, and unique souvenirs. Beyond its eclectic stalls, it also boasts a selection of fine dining establishments and opulent shisha lounges, offering a slice of the leisurely Qatari lifestyle. The original edifice is a magnificent example of traditional Qatari architecture, harking back to the late 19th or early 20th century, its timeless charm beautifully preserved through a thoughtful renovation in 2006.




Here, the air is thick with the alluring scents of exotic spices, mingling with the unmistakable aroma of the past, a blend of history and raw energy. The vibrant colors in the market – rich reds, yellows, and golds – dance before the eyes, captivating with their intensity. The women, veiled but not hidden, glance through their modest coverings, revealing eyes that speak volumes. There is a fire in their gaze, a story unfolding beneath the surface. It is here, within the labyrinth of the souk, that I feel the heartbeat of Doha – a city rich in tradition, its pulse thriving beneath the polished exterior of modernity.



The falcons, regal and proud, embody the spirit of Doha. Their cool, appraising eyes seem to observe us with quiet dignity, existing in a realm above the human hustle. Yet, in their aloofness, I feel a deep respect, a kinship with creatures who command attention without uttering a word. It is as though we both share a certain sense of distance, watching the world from a vantage point that is uniquely our own.




The harbor, with its gleaming yachts, is undoubtedly a sight to behold. Each vessel, pristine and majestic, speaks to Doha's wealth and status. Yet, it is the dhows – those timeless wooden boats, weathered by years and experiences – that draw me in. They carry with them a quiet grace, a reminder of the city’s deep-rooted history. These boats have weathered storms, witnessed change, and yet they remain, steadfast and proud. In their worn timbers, I sense a tale of resilience, of endurance, that resonates with the spirit of Doha itself.




The city’s architecture is a stunning fusion of innovation and tradition. Towering glass structures and bold, gravity-defying shapes stand as monuments to progress, yet they never overshadow the essence of the past. There is a harmonious blend of old and new, where cutting-edge design coexists with subtle nods to the rich history of the region. In Doha, I feel a sense of movement – a city always evolving, yet never forgetting where it came from.




Even the food, a delightful mixture of bold spices and fresh ingredients, speaks to Doha’s mastery of balance. There’s a certain sophistication in each dish, yet an underlying simplicity that brings authenticity to every bite. It’s a culinary experience that feels both refined and deeply rooted in the culture, a perfect reflection of the city itself – modern, yet inherently true to its traditions.




Doha, a city that dazzles with its splendour, sophistication, and subtle resilience, beckons at every turn. As I traverse its bustling streets, I am ceaselessly reminded that this is no mere city of superficial allure; rather, it pulses with depth and intricate layers. It urges you to peer past its gleaming facades and uncover the tales intricately woven into its very essence.




I depart, not with a sense of hollow departure, but with a quiet reverence, knowing I’ve encountered a place where modernity and tradition not only coexist but dance in perfect harmony. This city, brimming with treasures, lingers in the mind long after the journey ends, its presence enduring like a whispered promise.