The skies over the Middle East have become a backdrop to unexpected travel stories, and for Lyndon and Gabrielle Urqhart of New Zealand, a business trip to Germany turned into a remarkable overland journey. Disrupted by escalating regional tensions and missile activity, the couple found themselves embarking on a seven-hour drive across the desert from Doha, Qatar, to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in a desperate bid to continue their travels.
The Urqharts were en route to a business conference in Cologne, Germany, with a planned three-day stopover in Doha, when the situation began to shift. “That’s when it really kicked in… There was some quite loud booms,” Lyndon Urqhart told 1News. The escalating conflict prompted a scramble for alternative routes, and after days of uncertainty, the couple decided a ground journey offered their best hope of reaching Europe. Their experience highlights the ripple effects of geopolitical instability on ordinary travelers and the lengths people will go to overcome unexpected obstacles.
The decision to drive to Riyadh wasn’t taken lightly. With the help of three different drivers, they navigated the desert landscape, unsure if their efforts would even yield a flight. “We were not sure if the trip would pay off,” Urqhart admitted, but the gamble ultimately proved successful. Upon arriving in Riyadh, Urqhart was pleasantly surprised by the assistance they received at the airport. “We just talked to the people at reception. They organised some transport to get us from Doha to Riyadh.”
At the ticket desk, Urqhart braced for disappointment, expecting to be told there were no available seats. Instead, he was offered a solution. “I expected to be “let down a little bit” and “have to find some accommodation,” he said. But when he simply asked for a ticket “anywhere” that would get them closer to their destination, he was met with an unexpected willingness to help. They secured a flight to Istanbul, Turkey, followed by a connection to Vienna, Austria.
From Vienna, the Urqharts plan to seize a train to Cologne for the business conference, and then continue on to Austria for a planned holiday. Qatar Airways has assured them they will receive a refund for the unused portion of their tickets from Doha to Cologne. While the unexpected detour added some cost, Urqhart described the experience as “an experience we wouldn’t normally get.”
A Tense Wait in Doha
The situation in Doha wasn’t without its anxieties. Before their departure, Urqhart described a period of heightened tension as missiles were intercepted. “I realize this sounds a bit strange but – with the exception of the missiles going off – when they’re not going off, you feel really safe,” he explained. “Then you’ll get a strike for like half an hour or an hour, and you get pretty tense again as the building moves and different things like that.” Despite the unsettling moments, Urqhart noted the resilience and friendliness of the staff, who maintained a sense of calm between alerts. “But then, when it dies down, the staff come out, everyone is really friendly… you wouldn’t even really think much is going on, but then an airstrike will start, so you don’t really get much sleep.”
The Urqhart’s story is a testament to adaptability and a bit of luck in the face of unforeseen circumstances. Their journey, born out of travel disruption, underscores the challenges faced by those navigating a world increasingly impacted by geopolitical events. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of flexibility and resourcefulness when traveling internationally, particularly in regions experiencing instability. For travelers seeking information on the evolving situation in the Middle East, 1News is providing live updates.
As the Urqharts continue their journey to Germany, their experience offers a glimpse into the human side of international events. Qatar Airways is currently processing refunds for affected passengers, and travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest information regarding flight availability and potential disruptions. The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
If you are feeling anxious or distressed about world events, resources are available to help. You can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, or call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990.
What will happen next for the Urqharts remains to be seen, but they are determined to reach their destination and make the most of their trip. The business conference in Cologne is scheduled to begin next week, and the couple is looking forward to connecting with colleagues and enjoying their planned holiday in Austria. We will continue to follow their story and provide updates as they become available.
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