Ryanair - Cheap and Cheerful (Ryanair)

Member Name: brandygirl

Product:	Ryanair
Date:	22/02/03 (666 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheap, Easy to use website, Good friendly service

Disadvantages: Luggage restrictions

I was feeling fed up at work and instead of reaching for a chocolate bar for comfort, I turned to the Ryanair seat sale as a possibility to get out of the country for a few days relaxation. I normally get these whims and change my mind in favour of the chocolate, but the Ryanair website intrigued me. It was informative and easy to use and the prices were very cheap.

I noticed that the fares seemed cheapest when travelling Mon- Wed on the outward leg and Tues- Thurs on the return leg. I had a week off work and my husband Mon - Thurs. This seemed like an opportunity not to miss. Finding a flight and booking it was as easy as ABC. I did this after searching through the ryanair needahotel website to make sure that it was all within our budget. Once we booked the flight and printed off the flight ID we booked the hotel and printed off the hotel voucher. No waiting for tickets through the post!

The check in at the Ryanair desk at Stansted was 2 hours before departureand was quick,the queue through the next security area took longer and we noticed that some of the gates were a further 12 minutes walk away. You need to be at your gate 30 minutes before your flight so make sure that you leave yourself plenty of time.

Boarding priority is given to families with children and people with mobility problems, generally followed by those who checked in early. Where you sit on the plane is entirely dependant on when you board and what seats are left. You sit where you can. The seat pitch isn't generous, but as the Ryanair flights are of a short duration this should not pose a problem unless you have any special requirements. If you wish to purchase food and drink on board this is possible. A small baguette cost us £4 and a coffee £1.50. (FEB 2003). There are plenty of eating facilities at Stansted if you wish to eat before your flight.

Be aware that there are baggage/weight restrictions on luggage and only one piece of hand luggage is allowed

per person. Do check the small print as there are hefty charges for heavy luggage.

We found the Ryanair staff friendly, helpful and cheerful.

I've never used a no frills airline before but for a short flight where you are not wanting to watch Tv, listen to radio or order a gin and tonic every 15 mintues, Ryanair is a great choice!

The only hitch we had was on the return leg when all the passengers luggage from out flight had been left on a ramp and we had to wait an hour for it to turn up.

Apart from that I would certainly use Ryanair again. Just need my employer to give me more time off!

Summary: