Southwest Airlines

I flew Southwest for the first time this past trip to Florida, and I have to say that I see no reason to ever fly another airline again. They are inexpensive, the "pick your own seating" deal is awesome (I got exit seats both flights - even though I was one of the last people on the plane each time), and they actually have more frills than other airlines that are more expensive (they actually offer pillows and blankets, unlike the other guys).

But more importantly, their staff really is the friendliest out there. And funniest. On my trip home, the head steward was a flamboyant gay man who peppered jokes into every one of his announcements. His safety speech was actually applauded by the entire plane, it was that entertaining. And somehow he managed to get all of the boring stuff in there as well.

Here, for your amusement, are some exerpts:

If we had anticipated a water landing we wouldn't have come into work today, but if it does happen, place that yellow rubber thingie over your big old nose and breathe like you've never breathed before. It will sound like this: [launches into Darth Vader breathing and a minute and a half of Star Wars quotes]. For those of you that are travelling with small children, we have NO idea what you were thinking. Also, once you get your oxygen mask on then help your children with theirs, starting with your favorite - you know, the one with potential - and then work your way on down the line.

When the Captain - or Tennille - turns off the fasten seat belt sign...

Next time you decide to hurtle yourself through the air at 300 mile per hour in a tin tube, we hope you will think of us.

If you have any positive comments about this flight, please direct them to our southern office at www.southwest.com. Any negative comments should be directed at our northern office at www.northwest.com.