Originally Posted by flag99

Hello, flying Qatar Business Class YUL to LUS, arriving in Doha at 16:20 on the 31st of August, followed by a 10 hour layover (flight to Lusaka departs next day at 2:20).

Tried to get a resi at the transit hotel - alas, its fully booked. Ten hours seems long for the lounge, particularly after a 12 hour flight. I've looked at some third party sleeping pods, but the reviews are not great. I have also searched in this forum and there seems to be a limit of about 8 hours layover before individuals like yourselves recommend getting a hotel. With the covid restrictions, is it worth it? I know there is an app that needs to be used, and a purchase of a sim card as well. Additionally, I'd have to clear immigration and get a taxi to a local hotel. Is it advisable to try to get a hotel near the airport for this layover?

I will have a PCR test done in Canada and am fully vaccinated.

I've never flown Qatar previously, or had such a long connection - any advice out there for a newb? Appreciate it.