Ryanair: Southampton to Limoges

The carrier: Ryanair

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 1000 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.

Upside

Massive number of destinations. Really cheap fares.

Downside

Numerous extra charges when booking. Customer care isn't a priority. Food prices on board very steep.

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 €15 and the second and third bags are €20 each. Over 15 kg, €15 per kg at the airport. Please note that Ryanair increases the price by €5 in July and August. 

* Please visit Ryanair’s website for more information on its baggage policy.

Seating

Since Ryanair is 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.

Check-in and Ticketing

If you check in at the airport, you will also incur a €5 fee. The fee is €10 at the airport.  Note that American passengers can only check in at the airport.  Online check-in is available from 15 days to 4 hours before departure.  The boarding pass can be printed until 40 minutes before departure.  If you lose your pass then you will have to pay a fee to have a new one reissued.  Bag drop closes 40 minutes before departure, so if you check-in online you must make sure to have your bags in on time.

Tip

Book online whenever possible because fees are significantly reduced.  Also familiarize yourself with Ryanair's table of fees.

Departure: Southampton, United Kingdom - Southampton (SOU)

Southampton Airport is one of Europe's fastest growing regional airports serving over 40 European destinations. Location: The Southampton Airport is located 7 km (4 miles) northeast of Southampton. Transport: - Rail: The Southampton Airport has the self-proclaimed shortest 'plane to train' connection of any European Airport, adjacent to the Parkway Train Station. The terminal building is within walking distance. Train information can be found online on the National Rail, South West Trains, and Virgin Trains Websites. - Bus: Buses offer regular service between the airport, Southampton University, the city center, and the ferry terminal every 15 minutes (20 minutes on weekends). Further bus information can be found on the Unilink, First Group, and National Express Websites. - Taxi: The Checker Cars company serves the airport. They can be found at the rank located opposite the arrivals hall. The rank offers 24-hour service. For more information consult the company's Website. Service: There is an information desk located in the passenger terminal. The airport also has currency exchange, postal services, telephones, ATMs, and Wi-Fi access. Restaurants and bars as well as shops and duty-free are located throughout the terminal. Other airport facilities include Internet stations, baby care facilities, and first-aid. more...

Arrival: Limoges, France - Bellegarde (LIG)

Limoges - Bellegarde Airport or "Aéroport de Limoges - Bellegarde" is also known as Limoges International Airport or "Aéroport International de Limoges." It is served by the low-cost carriers Ryanair, Airlinair and flybe

Location

Limoges - Bellegarde Airport is located 7 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of Limoges, a commune of the Haute-Vienne département in the Limousin region of France.

Transport

• Bus: During summer months an airport shuttle runs from the airport to the station of Limoges. For more information, including upcoming schedules, visit their official website.
• Taxi: There is no public trasportation available to and from the airport, except for the seasonal shuttle. The taxi stand is located directly in front of the airport terminal. Taxis can also be called at the information desk. The fare should only be about €20 and the duration of the trip to the Limoges city center is approximately 10 minutes.

Service

There are a few bars, restaurants, a newsagent and ATMs, as well as an information desk. The airport also offers Wi-Fi access.