It seems everytime I go to book a flight, there is another charge or fee or the route/time/flight I want isn't available or is astronomically priced. In fact, last month when I was flying home, I heard the flight attendant on a major airline tell a passenger they couldn't move to an empty row because those seats "cost money"... um, didn't all of our seats cost money?, I wondered. In any case, she was referring to a new charge of $10-15 for "premium" seating on a plane (Less classy than first class but more premium than us "regular" coach fliers.)
Last week, my boyfriend and I traveled to California for a friend's wedding. We decided to fly Southwest, which is fairly new to South Carolina. I'd flown Southwest years ago while living in the Detroit area, but have not been on a Southwest flight since they underwent some changes and a new branding/marketing campaign. Both of us have heard good things about the airline recently so we figured we'd make the 2 hour journey to the CHS airport to try it out. Pricewise, the flight was similar to some airlines out of MYR, but the timing of flights was better for us. Plus, they still let you check a bag for free. Wait, let me rephrase that: they let you CHECK TWO BAGS FOR FREE. Two bags that weigh up to 50 lbs each. I was already falling in love.
The check-in & boarding process is unique to Southwest. The earlier you check in, the better your spot in the boarding line. You can pay an extra $10 to board first, because seats are on a first-come, first-served basis. We decided to pay the money because we wanted to sit together, but I noticed a lot of people didn't and just took their chances. Also, I saw a lot of passengers switching seats to let families or couples sit together.
Now, I'm a person who really loves snacks. When I don't get a snack on a flight, I just feel like something is missing.
Ok, so maybe I don't get rolling pin angry, but still, the experience isn't complete. Southwest not only still gives snacks and drinks out, but the flight attendants were very cordial and were offering them throughout the flight. So, if you didn't want anything right away, but maybe like 30 minutes later, you could just ask. They weren't rude or stingy, just very personable.
Free checked bags, snacks abounding and, finally, I got to see 2 new airports! Ok, this is the dorky traveler in me... but I love seeing new places. Southwest had us on a layover in Houston on the way out and Nashville on the way back. 2 more airports to check off my list!Ok ok, now I'm not out to bash any of the other airlines... but after some of the bad experiences I've had, it was nice to have such pleasant flights. Those flights led to a relaxing vacation and overall enjoyable week. So thanks, Southwest! My two 50 pound bags and I will see you soon!
