You and Qatar: A Long-Distance Love Affair (Measured in Hours)
So, you've been bitten by the travel bug, and Qatar is beckoning with its futuristic architecture, epic sand dunes, and maybe, just maybe, a chance to ride a camel (although, let's be real, that photo op might be the highlight of the camel's day too). But before you dust off your fanciest thobe (that's a fancy robe, for those not in the know), there's one crucial question: How long is the flight from Houston to Qatar?
** Buckle Up, Buttercup: It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint**
Let's not sugarcoat it, folks. This ain't a hop, skip, and a jump to your local taco stand. We're talking a long-haul flight, somewhere in the ballpark of 14 to 16 hours. That's a good chunk of time to catch up on your reading list (or that show you've been meaning to binge-watch), become pen pals with your seatmate (awkward silence is optional!), or perfect your in-flight origami skills (because, hey, why not?).
** Don't Panic at the Doha Disco: Ways to Beat Boredom at 30,000 Feet**
But fear not, intrepid traveler! Here are a few tips to turn your Houston-to-Qatar flight into a semi-luxurious (or at least semi-entertaining) experience:
-
Hydration is Key: Airplane air is drier than a bowl of uncooked couscous. Drink tons of water to avoid turning into a prune by the time you land. Bonus points if you bring a reusable water bottle - #savetheplanet and all that jazz.
-
Become a Movie Marathon Master: Most airlines have a decent selection of movies onboard. Use this opportunity to catch up on all those award-winning films you've been meaning to see (or rewatch all the Lord of the Rings movies for the hundredth time - no judgement here).
-
Get Crafty (or Just Slightly Delirious): Bring an adult coloring book, a crossword puzzle, or your knitting needles (just be mindful of those pointy bits around your fellow passengers). Who knows, you might even invent a new in-flight game to pass the time (suggestions welcome in the comments below).
-
Embrace the Nap Queen/King Within: Sometimes, the best way to deal with a long flight is to snooze it out. Invest in a good neck pillow, an eye mask, and some earplugs, and create your own in-flight sleep sanctuary.
** The Light at the End of the Tunnel (or Rather, Runway):**
Remember, my friend, even the longest flight eventually comes to an end. And when you step off the plane in Qatar, you'll be greeted by a new adventure, ready to be explored. So, book your ticket, pack your bags, and get ready to conquer that Qatar-shaped hole in your travel bucket list. Those 14-16 hours will melt away faster than a scoop of gelato in the Doha desert heat (and trust me, that gelato will be worth the wait).
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.