Ryanair: Liege to Murcia

The carrier: Ryanair

Upside
Massive number of destinations. Really cheap fares.

Downside
Numerous extra charges when booking. Customer care isn't a priority (See below). Food prices on board very steep.

About
The big daddy of them all, Irish low-cost carrier Ryanair maintains the most awe-inspiring route map and tends to add new destinations (and cancel unprofitable routes) at blistering, breakneck speed. Founded in 1985, Ryanair was Europe's original low fares airline and is still Europe's largest low fares carrier. At current count, Ryanair operates well over 500 routes, from Inverness to Brindisi; Tampere to Tenerife.

It's easy to have lots of opinions about Ryanair; we certainly do. It's a big monster of an airline. We've been pleased as punch on Ryanair, psyched to take advantage of insanely cheap fares, and we've also been annoyed beyond belief with the airline, distressed by enormous surcharges on too-heavy luggage and staff who appear to be completely clueless.

With Ryanair more than with the other airlines we describe here, it pays to be informed about potential penalties and pitfalls.

Baggage
* Carry-on: One piece of luggage not to exceed 10 kg.
* Checked: Up to 3 bags with a combined weight of 15 kg. If booked on-line using Ryanair, the first bag is €10 and the second and third bags are €20 each. Over 15 kg, €15 per kg at the airport. Check website for details.

Seating
Since Ryanair is a free for all when it comes to landing seats, it can sometimes be worth it to pay the €5 for priority boarding. In advance, book priority boarding status online, if you hold an EU passport.

Note: If you check in at the airport, you will also incur a €5 fee. Note that American passengers can only check in at the airport.


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Departure: Liege, Belgium - Liege (LGG)

Liège Airport, also called Liège-Bierset, is the second biggest cargo airport in Belgium. It is mainly used for freight operation but also serves more than 21 destinations for passengers (mainly charters).

Location: The airport is located in the north-west of the city of Liege, in the east of Belgium.

Transport:

- Rail: Travelers can leave the train at Liege Guillemins station and take a taxi to the airport. The journey should take approximately 15 minutes in total.

- Bus: Buses are available to and from the airport. For details on routes and fares consult the airport website.

- Taxi: Liege Airport has special arrangements with Hepp Taxi and Melchior. The Fares usually range from 15 to 22 euros from the station. The airport provides travelers with a free phone call to make the arrangements.

Service: There are shops within the airport (including a bookstore) as well as a cafeteria and restaurant located upstairs. Check-in counters, company and tour operator counters and an information desk are located on the main level. The terminal also contains a cash dispenser.

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Arrival: Murcia, Spain - San Javier (MJV)

Murcia-San Javier Airport functions as both a military air base and civilian passenger airport. Recently, Murcia Airport has become much busier due to the arrival of many low-cost carriers. The airport itself has become essential in the holiday and tourism industry of Murcia.

Location: Murcia-San Javier Airport is located in the municipality of San Javier, 17 miles south of Murcia, Spain.

Transport:

- Bus: A service between Murcia -San Javier Airport and Murcia Bus Station. Latbus is available via Line 73. The trip should last about 45 minutes in total. For more information visit the bus company’s Official Website.

- Taxi: The taxi rank is located outside the Terminal building. It is important to note that the limit of passengers on most Murcia Airport taxis are four people (including children). It is recommended that transfers for larger parties should be booked in advance.

Service: The airport offers a few restaurants and shops for travelers to enjoy. more...