While it's true that travelling is costly, you can make it less burdensome by choosing the cheapest flights available (most of which you can book at 2AM!)
I've been to a number of economy flights both in Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Cebu Pacific (CEB) and I can't help but cite some differences:
PLAY. Cebu Pacific has an in-flight game where they give away up to three simple prizes (the first and only item I won was a lunch bag). The cabin crew either asks you to raise something (seated 'Bring Me' game) or answer easy questions. If you're in PAL, just entertain yourself with apps on your mobile phone because they don't have in-flight games.
EAT. Philippine Airlines gives passengers a complimentary cup of water, coffee, or tea, and bread. If you're riding CEB, better fill up before the flight so you won't starve 2,000 feet above sea level.
REST. PAL is more considerate because the leg room in their air bus is way more comfortable than in CEB. It's like riding JoyBus (the bus line going to Northern provinces where passengers can recline their seat for almost 180°) compared to riding a public bus.
READ. CEB still provides complimentary copies of Smile Magazine in every flight which I highly appreciate. In my last two flights in PAL, I didn't see a single copy of Mabuhay, their in-flight magazine. It's not surprising though, considering their recent retrenchment efforts.
VIEW. PAL air buses are installed with small screens that show the current location of the plane relative to the destination. This is helpful in case you wonder which part of the world you are currently in.
LEARN. CEB pre-flight safety instructions are acted out by the cabin crew wherein PAL just projects them on screen. I think that most people learn from demonstration than mere projection.
EARN. PAL has Mabuhay Miles while CEB has GetGo Points for loyal passengers. Miles/Points earned can be used for future travels, discounts, and other freebies.
Admittedly, this list does not include who has the widest network of local and international destinations.
In summary, if you're looking for comfortable and relaxing flight (without the fun fare), it's best to go with PAL. If you're eager to take home flight mementos like CEB merchandise and their magazine for your future travels, then by all means choose CEB.
Nice-to-know: It's not a secret that CEB flights can be uber cheap because of their frequent Piso (PHP1) Fare promotions (which, thankfully, has brought me to Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia). When you're in Piso Fare flights though, don't expect for food unless you're willing to shell out PHP300 for a sandwich.
Whether you're a loyal PAL or CEB flyer, it's important that you genuinely look forward to the exciting journey and destination that will make everything worthwhile. It's best to be a smart traveler—someone who spends less but experiences more.
Happy travels!
*Photo not mine
No comments:
Post a Comment