Fly Southwest: RDU to Grand Junction, Colorado

Oh, buckle up my traveling friends because we're going on a glorious tour from the undefined heart of Raleigh/Durham to the breathtaking outskirts of Grand Junction. You're about to embark on a journey that may be as unpredictable as a teen drama series, via the one airline that has the same consistency as my morning coffee, Southwest Airlines. Strap in as we head to the skies, filled with as many ups and downs as a roller coaster ride.

Our journey starts with the ever so important process of booking flights. Ah, the thrill! The anticipation! It's like a game of Russian Roulette, never truly knowing the hand that fate will deal you. You're as giddy as a kid in a candy store, hunting for cheap flights or realistic flight deals that don't require a magnifying glass and a law degree to decipher. Will you snag that elusive discount or end up in a red-eye flight sandwiched between Kevin from accounting and a colicky baby? Only time will tell.

Sure, some folks will tell ya’ to opt for direct flights or non-stop service to save time. But where’s the fun in that? Why just jet when you can embark on an elaborate journey with numerous connecting flights, completely at the mercy of unpredictable weather patterns? Every layover is like a pit stop on your very own Amazing Race, a chance to stretch your legs, grab an overpriced airport sandwich, and discover the hidden gems of nondescript airport terminals. It's a jigsaw puzzle, where you get to piece together your very own delightful travel fiasco.

Let’s say you decide on a round-trip journey because, despite the allure of becoming a permanent resident of Grand Junction, life calls, right? Now your next move is to select your class. Are you ritzy enough for first-class, economical enough for economy class, or is it premium economy that beckons to you? Their fancy terms for "slightly more legroom" and "actual silverware" certainly adds to the charm. Choose wisely, my friends, because in the in-flight service hierarchy, orders are as sacred as the commandments.

The game is not over yet. Welcome to the spectacular world of baggage allowance, where your packing skills are put to a harsh survival test. Do you dare check a bag, placing your faith in the conveyor belt gods? Or do you rely on your Tetris skills to fit a week’s necessities in a carry-on that’s barely larger than a shoebox? It’s the Hunger Games of luggage policies, may the odds be ever in your favor!

Finally, don’t forget the mystical mileage program for the frequent flyer, named like some secret society. Will you rack up enough points to get a free coffee or, hold your breath, a whole flight? Something tells me it’s more likely you’ll receive a generic "Thank You" email for your loyal service. But hey, who doesn't appreciate a hearty pat on the back from a mega-corporation?

So there you have it, brave traveler of undefined origin. You’re now ready to ride the roller coaster of your upcoming adventure from Raleigh/Durham to Grand Junction via the ever enchanting Southwest Airlines. Safe travels, or at least as safe as it can be with a thousand variables in play. Godspeed!