Flight 1 – To Doha
This wasn’t my first Qatar flight; I’d previously flown Manila to Frankfurt in economy about 3 years ago. Both legs were good in so far as any long haul economy flight can be. I remember thinking the old Doha Airport was a pain having to get on and off buses after a 9hr flight. This time it’s different, I was keen to experience Hamad International and sip a flew glasses of its famous elixir (I’d never tried Krug before, shock horror)
Only one air-bridge active, so all passengers had to walk via the front aircraft door, past first class, business class and into the ‘black hole’ of economy (if that’s where the gods had seated them!)
Boarding early afforded a chance to see the cabins while empty. The first class was ok (but still behind CX, SQ, EK etc) and business class pretty attractive. They don’t offer the privacy that some of the new angled seats on CX do, but great space and 3 windows to each seat
Did feel a touch guilty having a pre departure drink. The stewardess holding back economy passengers in the aisle while she poured out a glass of Tattinger Prestige Rose. It would have been rude to refuse her offer of a glass.
An airport with few planes equals few delays. The aircraft barely taxied for 2 minutes when we were hurtling down runway. Maybe it’s the pigeon-hole view from economy, but I’ve always been a little nervous talking off. The fear of not seeing in front of you, business is different though. It’s far more relaxing.
Orders were taken for 3 all courses soon after the captain gave the signal it was safe for cabin crew to begin service. Drinks were also requested and I signalled for a glass of the Billecart Salmon Brut and perused the menu
These were the two red I tried on the flight
Strange thing was, it wasn’t well chilled, hence not so nice. I said it to the crew and they apologized saying it has been in the refrigerator. I passed and opted for a glass of red wine with dinner instead.
As I was expecting the food originating from The Philippines wasn’t great either. In fact the Arabic Mezze Starter was terrible. Dry salad, poor humus and the baba ghanoush tasted like an ashtray full of cigarette butts. I’m not kidding.
The main of Chicken was fine if a little dry. They later came around with miniature mustard jars which made it more enjoyable.
The cheese plate was very good I must say. The cheese’s, dried mango and walnuts were accompanied by a stunning glass of Kopte 1974 tawny port.
As can be seen from one of the screen shots above I settled in and watched Die Hard for the 99th time during the meal service. It’s the season. Had to be watched!
Coffee and deserts were pretty good.
The shortest connection in Doha for an onward Paris flight was 10hrs. So the plan was to venture downtown, checkout the souk and take a walk along the corniche. While more booze and movies was appealing, I opted to utilize the PJ’s provided, throw on the eye shades and get some rest. To get pyjamas on a day flight under 10hrs was a nice touch and the Salvatore Ferragamo amenity kit is decent too.
Approaching the Arabian Peninsula after a few hours rest, I ordered one of the anytime snacks. First up was the beef caladereta. Cold noodles and warm beef. Not so good.
Tried the sandwich wrap next. Excuse the bite, only realized I forgot to snap a picture after the damage was done!
There was a thread started recently in the QR forum about the declining quality of J business class food. While I won’t say the food was, it certainly wasn’t memorable. I’d like to put this down to the fact the flight was catered from Philippines. Hoping the next few flights will offer more attractive menus and tastes.
I took ramble into the 'black hole' and stretched my legs for 15 minutes. Nice flight for Y passengers. Lots of free seats and people with rows to themselves.
