I can no longer remember how many times have I flown with Qatar Airways but the recent one is something I want to share. I went to visit my family and relatives in Qatar during Christmas season and I was there only for 13 days.
Qatar Airways is the official carrier of the State of Qatar and is recipient of various awards including "World's Best Airline" for 2011 & 2012 conferred by the most prestigious airline award-giving body, Skytrax. It is also one of the six airlines that currently enjoys a 5-star status together with Asiana Airlines (South Korea), Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong), Hainan Airlines (China), Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines.
My QR645 Manila to Doha flight was scheduled on the 24th of December 2012, only a day before Christmas. Coming straight from Puerto Princesa, I had to allot a week for my visa application so I ended up flying on the 24th since I still had to attend my classes until the second week of December.
Qatar Airways Airbus A330-300
Our flight had a very light load since nobody would probably want to fly out on the 24th of December, unless you're going to where your family is. As a result, most of the passengers were able to occupy the entire row for a good night sleep. Well, an interrupted sleep since we had two food servings during that 10-hour flight, two hot meals and some occasional servings of water/juice/soda and candies.
Shortly an hour after take-off at Manila International Airport, we were given our first hot meal for the flight. We were asked to choose between chicken kare kare and some stir-fried egg noodles. The hungry person in me suggested I should go for a rice meal since I didn't eat dinner before proceeding to the airport. It was 1AM, PH time and my stomach was already grumbling.
After finishing my meal, I immediately explored the In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) system. I am largely interested in geography and this flight has an active flight map that lets you determine which airspace you are currently flying to.
Back in time (circa 2000), we were passing through Indian air territory when our plane suddenly suffered from tremendous air pocket that I though we were going to die. The lights were blinking, people were already praying, the entire plane was shaking, it was indeed the most thrilling airplane ride I have ever experienced in my life.
In-Flight Entertainment (Oryx)
Corned beef with creamy scrambled egg, garlic rice, sautéed onion and tomato served with pandesal and sliced fruits.
2-4-2 seating arrangement for Economy Class
About 10AM Philippine time or 5AM Doha time, I was already able to see the ground from the aircraft. I felt so happy to be able to set foot in Doha once again. Last time I was there was year 2008 during my term break in Mapua and it has been around 4 years already. This recent trip was short but fulfilling vacation since I was able to spend time with my family on a Christmas season.
the ground as seen from the aircraft
Many things have changed in Doha city,
especially the skyline. Buildings have sprouted at the West Bay, parks,
shopping centers, high-end places have mushroomed all over the country
and constructions are on full swing.
Buildings at West Bay, Doha
Qatar is heavily preparing for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It will be the first Arab state to host the event and it has gone through a strenuous competition to host the World Cup against the mighty countries such as United States, South Korea, Japan and Australia.
With a population of about 1.7 million, Qatar has the highest GDP per capita and has the fastest-growing economy in the world at a rate of 19%. It is also home to the third largest oil company, Qatar Petroleum. This country is expected to progress even more and I hope to be part of this history as I consider Qatar as my second home.
Till my next Qatar Airways flight!
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