Fly Southwest: CUN to Reno, Nevada

Picture this: The turquoise-blue waters of Cancun have satiated your soul. Your skin feels a tad crispier due to the generous amount of the Mexican sun, and your heart, more full of mariachi music than beats. Now, it’s time to bid adios to this paradise and prep for your airborne voyage with Southwest to the Biggest Little City in the World – Reno. So, buckle up, amigos, for here's my attempt to humorously guide you (with a hint of jocularity) through this journey using, or should I say, weaving in our magical words of the day- "Non-stop, Airfare, In-flight services, Mileage program, and Baggage allowance".

Let’s start with the much-dreaded process of booking your flight tickets. You'd imagine that the airfare and the measures of your sanity would inversely fluctuate. Thankfully, Southwest’s showcasing of their non-stop flight options, with prices that won't have you auctioning your left kidney, makes one heave a sigh of relief. Paired with their flight schedule, which rivals the punctuality of the Swiss, we're off to a great start.

Now onto the most controversial topic among frequent flyers- "In-flight services". Imagine the scenario: A neatly-coifed stewardess pushes the cart down the narrow path, her voice chiming like a mystical siren singing the song of tiny bags of pretzels and complimentary drinks. However, don’t be deceived! She may not actually carry your most desired inflight snack - the gourmet food platter. But worry not, Southwest has a reputation of making up for the lacklustier food department by delivering stellar customer service, ensuring you’re well taken care of.

Treading the delicate line of being real and satirical, let's wonder aloud at the enigma that is the Airlines’ Mileage program. Be it ‘Rapid Rewards’, 'AAdvantage', or ‘SkyMiles’, one cannot help but chuckle at the irony of this name-game. One can't help but think of it less as a program for customers to gain miles, and more for airlines to gain loyal bank-balance-fattening clientele. Yet, loyal patrons of Southwest have often vouched for their Mileage Program, expressing that making a switch would be a one-way trip to Regrets-ville. So, when you’re being romanced by the promises of thousands of miles, remember, not all that glitters is gold, and not all 'Best Offers' are best for you.

Let’s now delve into the world of ambiguous rules and regulations known as the 'Baggage Allowance’. How many of you have encountered the dreaded, unsolicited sweating in baggage check-in line anxiety, hoping your bag isn't the heavyweight champion of all luggage? You wouldn’t be alone if you answered affirmative. Fortunately, Southwest extends a generous hand by offering not one, but two free checked pieces of baggage. Yes, you read that right, TWO! Now, those extra pairs of shoes can guiltlessly travel with you.

So dear fellow wanderers, as you traverse from the Land of Enchantment in Cancun to the hidden marvels of Reno in Southwest, remember to take these pointers with a pinch of salt, a dash of humor, and a generous squeeze of sarcasm. Safe travels, or should one say, happy pre-preparation for your next adventure?