It’s easy to sit here in our iron castle sharing amazing deals, sending travelers on their way. It’s another matter entirely to live the advice and opportunities we share, firsthand. For a recent trip to Stockholm we needed just a one way ticket and it needed to fit a tight schedule. Norwegian offered the perfect solution, and we lived to tell the tale…
First, We Love Norwegian For One Way Pricing…
Using miles is fun. Using miles for aspirational, business and first class seats is even more fun, but sadly the amount of miles required can be ludicrous. Norwegian offers one way tickets at prices often half or less of whatever the round trip is going for, which is in stark contrast to most airlines, who charge a ghastly amount for a one way international ticket. Norwegian can be a brilliant way to secure a one way ride, allowing you to use miles for a luxurious ride the other way.
Check In Was Very Orderly And Professional…
It seemed as if everyone “knew the deal” at Norwegian check in. Lines were fast moving, since few people had complex multi airline, multi city itineraries. Passengers either paid in advance for the privilege of the checked bag or had carefully weighed the carry on luggage to make sure it adhered to the strictly enforced (yes, strictly) 10KG limit. Despite a fully committed check in line, we were through in roughly 15 minutes. Stark contrast to TSA at JFK. Shambles.
Accessing A Lounge With Priority Pass Was Big…
When you know your fate ahead of you is a 7+ hour journey in the most basic of fashions, a couple hours to unwind in peace goes a long way. Thanks to our Priority Pass membership, which anyone can purchase, we headed over to the Korean Airlines lounge at JFK Terminal 1. It’s not the nicest lounge by any means, but does feature showers, complimentary wine and spirits, ramen noodles and very comfy chairs with excellent tarmac views.
Boarding Was Extremely Efficient…
Norwegian has really curated their boarding process well. A quick moment for those in their “premium” offering to board first, and then onto boarding by row. With light allowance for carry ons and extra large Boeing 787 Dreamliner bins, we saw very little fight for overhead space. Without too much time or fuss, we seemed to be ready for departure with the doors closed. As an aside, the crew were very sharply dressed.
But On To The Seat And Comfort…
Well. It’s not the worst, but it’s definitely not the best. Seat pitch felt extremely tight. This was due in part to the slightly reclined natural angle of the seat, but also because it was really-really tight. Minus the dreaded base of the seat, which industry professionals best describe as “butt padding”, or in this case-lack thereof, the seat was perfectly nice. The cabin on the 787 was arranged in a 3-3-3 layout and USB power ports were a welcome amenity.
“On Demand” Food Was Actually Kinda Incredible…
If you relish economy airplane food, you need to get out more. Not having a tedious, time consuming food service was fantastic for a nights sleep. If we wanted to order a half bottle of Nicolas Feuillatte brut, a sandwich or anything from the extensive menu, we simply pressed a few buttons on the seat back in front of us. If not, we were left alone. Bring your own snacks, eat beforehand or dine on something you may actually enjoy. Prices are very reasonable.
Overall, It’s Excellent Value For Money…
The deals Norwegian offer up are truly revolutionary. We posted a round trip US to Europe or vice versa deal this year for under $200. That’s just absurd. Adding in the ability to game the system, booking on the Norwegian or Swedish version of their site in Krona to save a minimum of $20 makes it even sweeter. We would gladly fly Norwegian across the pond again on a great deal. If you want to survive, bring a comfy pillow (not a useless airport neck pillow), some noise cancelling headphones and some positivity. It’ll all be over within 8 hours, and it’s really pretty great…
