Transform Your Layover into a Mini-Vacation: Qatar Airways' Stopover Program Explained

I am writing this from the Doha Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar.  This is arguably the nicest airport I have ever been to.  Between the very traditional clothes, thwab and abaya, to the Arabic naturally printed everywhere, this is fascinating.

As I look longingly out the windows to see what Doha, Qatar looks and feels like, I can't help but regret that I was utterly unaware of Qatar Airways' Stopover Program when I made my reservation. I had just learned what a stopover program was after I booked my flights. In fact, once I learned about stopovers, I called the airline to see if I could amend my reservation. I made the reservation through a third party and not directly with the airline. Mistake, mistake, mistake! 🤦‍♀️

A stopover is a stop between City A and City B for more than 24 hours. A stopover differs from a layover, which is less than 24 hours. Stopover programs are airline-specific or award-specific. In this case, Qatar Airlines offers stopover rates as low as $14 a night for a four-star hotel, which is a great way to take advantage of the airline's excellent route network. Incorporating a stopover with Qatar Airlines can be booked online. Depending on your country of origin, you can either book your flights and hotel packages together or book your flight and then book your hotel and experiences. You can access more information, including visa information specific to your nationality, at https://www.qatarairways.com/en-us/offers/qatar-stopover.html

Please don't make the same mistake I made. Spending a few days in Doha would have been an incredible way to experience a new country and culture and break up a long excursion. After spending two consecutive nights on an airplane, exploring, sightseeing, and perhaps getting horizontal for a good nap sounds divine right now. Think about geography and consider taking advantage of a stopover on your next international holiday. 🗺️

Other notable stopover programs include the following:

Iceland Air,

Etihad Airways,

Ethiopian Airlines,

Alaska Airlines,

Singapore Airlines,

Turkish Airlines,

TAP Air

as well as Aeroplan, Flying Blue, and Avios award programs.

Keep in mind you do need to pay taxes and surcharges at the stopover destination. A 23-hour layover can avoid taxes.

Finally, if your itinerary doesn’t have the time to add a few days at a destination, several airports have layover tours.  I am anxious to try this at some point, as leaving the airport to explore with a representative that will ensure I return on time sounds incredible!