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PACK your bags - and let's fly. That's the message Australia's domestic airlines are sending out to their passengers as fares hit their lowest-ever levels. The recent arrival of Qantas off-shoot, Jetstar has really brought fares down. And with Virgin Blue (originally set up by Sir Richard Branson) trying to keep pace airline travellers are able to fly to many destinations for under $50 one way. Now it's possible to fly across the country, from Brisbane or Sydney to Perth (some 2,000 miles)for a few hundred dollars, although this is still pretty expensive when compared with Ryan Air fares around Europe. But for Australia it's something of a revolution - and a revelation. And Virgin Blue has started services to Fiji and Vanuatu for around $250 one way, making these Pacific paradise islands easily affordable for virtually all travellers. Especially when accommodation also is affordable. Which means overseas visitors can easily spend a few days on a real South Pacific island, lapping up the local culture and enjoying their favourite tipple under that traditional swaying palm tree in the balmy evening breeze, as the ocean gently laps the golden sands. And Pacific Blue and Air New Zealand off-shoot, Freedom Air also have brought down fares across the Tasman from eastern Australia to New Zealand to a couple of hundred dollars each way. Which brings that particular piece of paradise within the pocket of backpackers. But these cheap fares have come at a price for travellers. Only good old Qantas and Air New Zealand still offer full service flights. On the other airlines you have to enjoy the local glass of water, which is served free, starve or bring or buy your sandwiches and cups of coffee and tea. Of course, all airlines are only too happy to sell you something a little stronger. But the biggest shock to travellers has come from Jetstar which rigidly enforces its policy of closing the check-in gates 30 minutes before departure. Be just one minute late (yes, folks, that's a mere 60 seconds) and you miss the flight. Not only that - you also do your dough. There are no refunds and you either pay again or stay at home. And Jetstar accepts no excuses. So don't get caught in the traffic - and run fast once you do reach the terminal. And one other thing, virtually all of these really low, low fares have to be booked on the internet, last only for a short time and come and go faster than showers in April. |
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