Thanks all for the replies.

Duck1981 - yes no kids, it does make life easier (and cheaper!). I am concerned on the risk of QR swapping out qsuites (it seems quite common) but I guess the same as BA swapping CS for CW etc.

scottishpoet - would be biz classic min fare (which does get lounge access).

abraxias - thanks - I was thinking the same as I was looking at the schedules and working out the timings. A shower in between does seem pretty good! How long of a layover would you recommend in order to get through transit in DOH and get showers etc?

OGG flyer - appreciate the tips on travel in-country, this is our first visit so probably stick to cities (with a few days trips) and mainly use public transport. I'm sure it won't be our last visit so a car is a great rec.

Seems like a stopover is not a major issue. It would be a cash fare - cost/value is personal to everyone etc but ~3k pp seems "reasonable" to the far east. Agree might find cheaper fares closer to travel date, but I like to be organised. QR refund policies seem reasonable should I find significantly lower prices closer to the dates.

Appreciate the insights all.