Wow, it's been a while since I was last on Ciao, 2002 was the last time in fact, and it's now early ...
Wow, it's been a while since I was last on Ciao, 2002 was the last time in fact, and it's now early 2008. Seems like there have been some changes since then. I'd best start writing again.
Member since:06.09.2000
Reviews:344
Members who trust:211
Those of you who know the reasons behind my trip to the USA will know there is more meaning to the title of this op than would first appear. Those who don't, take a second look, you'll work it out.
I chose to fly with continental to the shores of Virginia for two reasons, firstly the price and secondly the fact that they offer a service out of Stansted, Essex. The latter is a new service which began on 1st May, I flew out on 17th May and the whole trip was hastily arranged.
My ticket was booked effortlessly and painlessly over the Internet and required collection at the Airlines desk at the airport. No problems here except that the ticket printer was broken so my ticket was hand written. Check in was swift, no queues, no hassle and the stff were very friendly and helpful.
My flight was in 2 legs and once checked in boarding passses were issued for both parts of the journey to avoid the need to check in again at Newark.
Boarding itself was again a simple process and the cabin crew again helpful and friendly. The plane, a 757 had two rows of 3 seats with a central isle. Comfortable and with plenty of leg room I settled in for a relaxing trip.
Food on the flight was excellent, by far the best I have had on a Trans continental flight. None of this tasteless cardboard rubbish, but tasty and wholesome. Italian chicken with pasta was the main meal and it was certainly well presented too. A constant supply of drinks and nibbles were supplied which helped pass the 7 hours on board as did the in flight entertainment.
Two films were shown on overhead screens each set about 3 rows apart, not quite the same as another airline's in seat screens but certinly watchable. I prefered though to read and listen to the music on the 6 available music stations so didn't bother with the films.
Constant updates from the pilot and on screen flight position and data gave a constant picture of where we were and how the flight was going. A nice touch.
On arrival, customs and immigration were quick and easy. We touched down at 11.50 and I was clear and with baggage in hand by 12.30.
Due to US laws etc baggage needs to be collected and taken personally through customs but a quick re-check of baggage for those making a connecting flight is available. It works too as both my baggage and I arrived at the same destination!
Once at Newark I had to transfer to another terminal by monorail, quick and easy too. Then wait for my connection. Constant updates of information provide the traveller with all they needed to know about their connections. Mine was delayed by 15 mins but we made that time up once in the air and arrived at my final destination on time.
This second leg of the journey was again pleasurable, with great cabin crew. Fight time was just 1 hour so by the time we were airrbourne, had drinks etc it was time to land.
Baggage was again off the plane in record time and all wheels on my case were still in place and for the first time ever there was no damage to my case!! A rarity these days!
Summing up.. A very comfortable and well run airline that I will be using again. Great food, pleasant flight, helpful staff and a very enjoyable experience all round.
10/10
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
I have booked a hotel only deal to Florida and i can travel anytime within the next 18 months, these sound like a good option but if you have any other suggestions, please let me know.
From_The_Continent 17.06.2001 13:15
A very good opinion which confirms much of the positive reviews of Continental which I have recently read here at Ciao (except one very negative by "anneliese", based on the experience of just one flight six years ago). The meals sound promising, they are my greatest point of criticism with the many other airlines I have flown. I haven't tried Continental yet, but might consider them in the future, as they offer direct flights from my home near Düsseldorf to New York Newark. Unfortunately they don't seem to participate in the mileage programmes of any of the airlines I regularly fly with. Regards, Hans
lucydog 11.06.2001 23:58
I have to agree with you, by far the best airline I have ever been on. I think I must have just missed you at the airport. charlotte
NH Hotels, the hotel chain leader in Europe, with more than 300 hotels in 20 countries in Europe, Latin America and Africa. Enter into our web site and find the best available tariff at all times
Record Rent a Car is present in the main spanish airports and has a very wide fleet. We offer: exceptional discounts, free additional drivers,
unlimited mileage... subscribe to our Club Record and take advantage of special offers.
May 19th, 2001
very helpful by (96%):
helpful by (4%):
