From Onboard Bars to Mini Q-Suites: My Qatar Airways Business Class Journey
I recently had the pleasure of flying Business Class with Qatar Airways once again - and it reminded me exactly why they’re so highly regarded. This journey was part of a longer trip across Asia. I travelled from Manchester to Japan via London with British Airways in Premium Economy, before continuing on to Thailand with Singapore Airlines via Singapore, again in Premium Economy. For the journey home, though, I decided to treat myself - flying Business Class with Qatar Airways from Bangkok back to Manchester via Doha. Over the years I’ve been lucky enough to experience a range of Business Class cabins across different airlines, but Qatar has consistently stood out. In my experience, they really do set the bar when it comes to comfort, service and the overall onboard experience. Funnily enough, the last time I flew Business Class with Qatar was also on a trip back from Japan - clearly a bit of a pattern forming. This time I also had the chance to experience two different aircraft and cabin styles on the journey.
Airport & Lounge Experience
One of the great perks of flying Business Class with Qatar Airways is the airport experience. Fast-track security made things quick and easy at the airport, and I was able to relax in the lounge in Bangkok before the flight.
The lounge offered a nice mix of Thai dishes alongside more familiar Western options, which was a great way to start the journey before boarding.
During the layover in Doha, there were several lounges available for Business Class passengers. I spent some time in the impressive Al Mourjan Business Lounge, located inside Hamad International Airport. It’s considered one of the largest and most impressive Business Class lounges in the world.
The lounge itself is beautiful - spacious, calm and thoughtfully designed, with plenty of seating areas and greenery throughout. It’s a wonderful place to relax between flights and really adds to the overall premium experience.
Bangkok to Doha - A380 Comfort and Great Company
The first leg from Bangkok to Doha was on the iconic Airbus A380.
Not long after boarding, I settled in and changed into the wonderfully comfortable Qatar Airways pyjamas (which I should probably admit I’m still happily wearing at home now and then).
A good portion of the flight was actually spent at the onboard bar area. Not so much for the drinks - although I did enjoy a couple of Baileys - but more for the conversation. One of the things I love about long-haul travel is the random chats you end up having with people from all over the world.
The cabin crew were incredibly warm and welcoming, which created a relaxed and friendly atmosphere throughout the flight.
To finish the evening, I swapped the Baileys for a calming peppermint tea, along with some rather addictive popcorn.
The food was beautifully presented and tasted just as good as it looked, adding to the cosy and indulgent feel of the flight.
I’ve also always appreciated the amenity kits Qatar provides. This flight featured the lovely Diptyque kit, and I have to say I absolutely love the perfumes and fragrances they include. It’s one of those small touches that really elevates the whole experience.
I didn’t actually get any sleep on this first flight - but that was mostly because I was enjoying the conversations far too much.
Doha to Manchester - Mini Q-Suite Privacy
The second leg of the journey, from Doha to Manchester, brought a slightly different kind of luxury.
This flight was operated by a Boeing 787-9, featuring one of Qatar’s mini Q-Suite style cabins, part of their famous Qsuite design.
After all the socialising on the first flight, the privacy of the suite was exactly what I needed. Having your own little space makes such a difference on a long flight.
I especially liked the clever storage areas built around the seat - everything had its place, which made the space feel neat and tidy.
Being able to stretch out fully and relax made it much easier to finally get some sleep, and I managed to grab a few hours of proper rest before landing back in Manchester.
And since the suite gives you that extra bit of privacy… I may or may not have had a little solo boogie to Steps and Kylie Minogue while cruising somewhere over the Middle East.
It’s the little things.
Final Thoughts
Qatar Airways really does live up to its reputation as one of the world’s best Business Class experiences. From the attentive service and excellent food to the thoughtful details like the amenity kits and cabin design, it’s consistently impressive.
Safe to say, I’m already looking forward to my next journey with them.
