2008 Contributor
mitimom
Glendale, AZ
Forget the rest, Southwest is best.
5 star rating

love to travel
Pros

    outstanding rapid rewards program, caring personnel, No added fee's, allows one-way ticket purchase, easier than most, Totally adjustable for swa credit, Laid back atmosphere, integrity, Simply the best!, no hassle changing flight days, nice price, Allows changes without fees, on time most of the time, Accommodating, gets me to where i need to go, available, Smooth, simple, trouble-free., new seating policy!!!, Prices are always great to major cities., great customer service, affordable, friendly no-hassle service

Cons
    slow seating proccess, doesn't fly everywhere...yet!, crowded flights, need more destinations, would love to fly more places

NOV
25
2008

Southwest Airlines — 

Today more than ever a traveler must be wise with his finances. Face it, the dollar, pound, or Euro doesn't go as far as it did just a few years ago. Airlines have created lists of items and services that once were included but now are an up-charge to your full fare ticket, checked bags, aisle or window seat, even a beverage. Each airline differs from the others except for one thing, they all want more of your travel dollar. How is one to keep it all straight?

For me the answer is simple. Fly Southwest airlines. No frills, yes. But also no gimmicks, no hidden charges, no surprises. While all the other airlines are pinching you for every dollar, and making you wish you had coughed up a few more, Southwest is offering the same reliable service today as they did last year and the years before. With the most reliable on time service in the industry, Southwest manages to fly you safely to your destination in comfort and with courtesy. Seats are as wide as any coach seat in the industry and wider than some. Leg room is sufficient and again, greater than some others I have flown in the past. Soft drinks and water are still offered at no extra charge with a bag of pretzels or peanuts, and a smile.  You see, Southwest flight attendants are happier and kinder than most because they have pride of ownership, not to mention fewer disgruntled passengers who will be arriving at their destination ON TIME!

To address the "cattle call" issue. It's true, you can't reserve your individual seat in advance, but the concept of "cattle call" isn't entirely true either. Twenty four hours in advance of departure you can log onto the website and receive a number that will allow you to board in order of the promptness of your log in. From there, when you board, you can select whatever seat is available. Not a problem for me and certainly not a deal breaker. I guess its a personal preference.

I haven't even mentioned the best part. Southwest's fares are almost always lower than the other major airlines to all of their travel destinations. No, you can't find them on Orbitz or Travelocity, but for that inconvenience, a visit to www.southwest.com will save you $$$. And the price you see is the price you pay, no fuel up-charges, no change fees, no curbside check-in fees. Just a great airline for a great price.

OK, you're thinking, nothing is this perfect. You're right, Southwest isn't absolutely ideal. For me, that's because they don't fly everywhere. However, as they continue to lead the industry in service and price, they will expand to other domestic locations and continue to offer their trademark great service for a reasonable price.

I hope this has been helpful for all who are fortunate enough to be able to travel these days. Airline prices and airport screening make it more difficult to endure what should be an enjoyable experience. Even if you are postponing your vacation, be assured Southwest will continue to fly into the future with integrity and class. Thats why the motto at our house is, "If Southwest doesn't go there, neither do we."



I_thumb_up Southwest Airlines is recommended by mitimom

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