Fly Southwest: RDU to Denver, Colorado

Oh, what a joyous occasion it is to be planning your voyage on Southwest from the ever-thriving and absolutely riveting metropolis of (undefined) Raleigh/Durham to the winter wonderland that awaits in Denver. And by winter wonderland, I mean a mountainous graveyard of freezing temperatures, where the idea of consciousness gets buried in the snow along with any sense of warmth. Physical warmth of course, because people in Denver are known for their sunny dispositions, quite ironic given the amount of sunlight they actually receive.

Now, let's delve into the pulchritude of Southwest Airlines, known widely for their premium economy seats that are as plush and luxurious as...well, economy seats. They're called 'premium' for a reason, after all. You get the same amount of space and comfort, only now, you’re convinced you’re travelling in style. Marketed better than sliced bread, Southwest claims it's the 'heart' of the airline. What's not to love?

The beauty of planning a trip with Southwest airlines is sifting through the multitude of available flights. A delightful treasure hunt. Will you score on a one-way ticket, laying your hands on one of those elusive last-minute flights, or manage to grab a round-trip bargain? Oh, the thrill. It's like Finding Waldo amongst a sea of departure times, layovers and connecting flights. When you have a plethora of flight schedules lying in front of you, it's like playing a game of Sudoku with time zones. Unleash your inner Sherlock, this is mystery at its best.

Speaking of Sherlock, why don't we discuss the mystery novels that are Southwest's baggage allowances. May heaven have mercy on you if your suitcase goes just an inch or a pound over the specified limit. Like a mystical creature from medieval folklore, Southwest promises to accommodate – but only within a very narrow margin of ‘generous’ limits. Remember folks; perfect that art of packing. Compact is the name of the game.

And let’s not forget the in-flight services. Nothing rejuvenates the soul like a microscopic packet of carbs lightly seasoned with a hint of salt, served exactly mid-flight. That’s what I call gourmet dining at 35,000ft. The juxtaposition of the humdrum in-flight meals and the grandeur of the heavens outside your window is a sight to behold.

Southwest likes to save the best for last, unveiling their magnificent frequent flyer program. As you gallantly embark upon journey after journey, your altruistic endeavors will be rewarded handsomely, or so they promise. The tactic is simple: make you fly enough until you are so committed, backing out would seem like fiscal irresponsibility. They may not promise adventurous lands or return to normal temperatures, but they sure do offer a well-concocted mileage program.

To finalize your booking, you'll want to seize the “best time to book” which is essentially a myth concocted by the starry-eyed optimists of the airline world. Is that a full moon? Mercury in retrograde? No one really knows. But rest assured, armed with your sense of humor, and wearing your thriftiest boots, you'll conquer the chaos and secure your seat to Denver. Happy hunting!