Doha Stopover: From Transit to Treasure
Over the years, I’ve had several brief stopovers at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport—most lasting less than four hours, just enough time to stretch my legs before the next flight. But my first extended layover was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Philippine government imposed a cap on arriving passengers. I was held at the airport for 24 hours, provided with complimentary accommodation at the Oryx Hotel and meal vouchers. Despite the generous hospitality, strict health protocols kept me from exploring Doha City. Fast forward to today, I finally got a second chance to experience Doha beyond the terminal walls—a 20-hour stopover on our return from a 14-day tour of Central Asia. This time, I shared the adventure with Anneth and Jea. Anneth and I booked a stay at the Royal Riviera Hotel, while Jea received a free hotel accommodation inside the airport, thanks to an approved transit visa. With time on our side and the city within reach, we made the most of our short...