Testing Qatar Airways Business Class

Upon arrival at Frankfurt Airport, the airline rolls out the red carpet for its passengers. At the check-in counter, the bags of the travelers are taken care of, and they are directed to the Business Class Lounge. Passengers can bypass long lines at the Economy Security Check-In, as Business travelers get to enjoy a slight shortcut. After spending a cozy hour in the lounge, it's time to board the flight.

In the galley, crew members are busy preparing, and I catch a glimpse of the cockpit as one of the crew members guides me to my seat. She introduces herself as my contact on this flight to Doha. She hands me a warm towel and my first drink while I settle into my seat. Unlike Economy Class, it's very quiet here; there's gentle murmuring, and the clattering of luggage being stored in overhead bins is absent. In Qatar Airways' Business Class, one feels as if they have the airplane entirely to themselves. The ambiance resembles that of a hotel rather than an airplane. The quiet background music and relaxed atmosphere contribute to the experience.

The first impression of the Business Class is excellent. It is bright, spacious, and cozy at the same time. My window seat is a single space, and the large screen is just perfect for a movie session. The seats on this aircraft are generally arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, which is perfect for solo travelers. This arrangement allows a person to sit by the window without having to climb over an accompanying traveler to get to the aisle. The seats in the middle are angled, with footrests facing each other. A retractable divider provides more privacy when needed. All Business Class guests on the A350 have direct access to the aisle.

In addition to the spacious overhead bins, each guest has plenty of storage around their seat, allowing for shoes and small carry-on luggage to be stored easily. Power outlets and USB ports are, of course, available. The seats can be adjusted into various comfortable positions, and if needed, they transform into a bed. Pillows and blankets are provided, and if you like, the crew will even prepare and set up the bed for you.

Shortly after takeoff, my dinner order is taken, with a finely printed menu at each seat. Unlike some other airlines, here you can choose when you want to eat, and the personal steward delivers the meal at your requested time. This offer is especially convenient if you plan to work or watch movies for a few hours after takeoff.

On my flight, I opt for light antipasti, a delicious oriental main course, and a chocolate dessert that looks like a work of art right on the plate. The menu is served on a fine tablecloth draped over my table. The porcelain and cutlery are of the highest quality, and many hotels could take inspiration from this.

Before the flight, you can also indicate your culinary preferences online on Qatar Airways' website - there are options for nearly every dietary requirement, from vegan to gluten-free to low-fat.

When my glass is empty, it is promptly refilled, and alongside many non-alcoholic beverages, I can also choose from an excellent wine list. The service on board is truly remarkable. The crew works hard to make each guest's experience as pleasant as possible. Passengers can request a second dessert, and throughout the flight, there's always an opportunity to order drinks, fruit, and small snacks.

The breakfast before landing is also impressive: How about fresh fruit, coffee, tea, croissants, and jam - or perhaps an Arabic breakfast with feta and hummus? Both options are visually appealing and taste wonderful. After a few hours of sleep, the strong coffee is the perfect wake-up call before landing in Doha.

On the flight to Doha, every passenger feels like a king. After the meal, I enjoy a cappuccino, and then it's time for a movie session. The entertainment system, Oryx One, is quite diverse. In addition to typical Hollywood blockbusters, numerous international films are available. Be sure to browse through the many different offerings, and pay special attention to the list of lesser-known B-movies that may not have gained worldwide fame but definitely deserve a spot in your playlist.

Long-haul flights are also perfect for playing some games or listening to entire albums, as there's rarely such quiet as you find here. Be sure to use the noise-canceling headphones that Qatar Airways provides to block out annoying engine noises.

I have never experienced such a relaxed long-haul flight as this one. From the boarding process to breakfast shortly before landing, I felt a bit like a king above the clouds. Here, the vacation begins on the airplane rather than at the actual destination. It's no wonder that Qatar Airways is regularly awarded the 'Best Business Class in the World', as the standards are indeed extremely high. If I could, I would take a luxury flight every week; wouldn't you?