My First-Time Flying to the Philippines with Philippine Airlines: A Traveler’s Experience
Traveling to a new destination is always an adventure, and my recent trip to the Philippines was no exception. From navigating airport queues to savoring in-flight meals, here’s a detailed account of my journey with Philippine Airlines—complete with tips to make your travel experience smoother.
Pre-Flight Preparations: Getting to the Airport
The journey began with careful planning to ensure I reached the airport on time. I relied on public transport, starting with a train to Central Station and switching to the Airport Line. Traveling light with my trusty Nomatic travel pack and a small Samsonite luggage, I found maneuvering on trains hassle-free.
Arriving three hours before my flight seemed like plenty of time—until I saw the long queues at both the check-in and bag drop counters. Despite having checked in online, there was no real advantage since the lines were equally long. Lesson learned: always allow extra time, especially when flying during peak travel seasons like mid-January.
Navigating Airport Security and Immigration
After finally dropping off my luggage and collecting my boarding pass, I headed to immigration and security. The queues here were equally lengthy, and to top it off, my backpack was flagged for a search due to carrying multiple tech gadgets and chargers. (Note: If you’re a tech enthusiast like me, pack your gadgets neatly to minimize delays.)
Claiming TRS (Tourist Refund Scheme)
One of the highlights of my airport experience was claiming the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) for my DJI Osmo purchase. Here’s a pro tip: download the TRS app and fill out the form beforehand. I didn’t realize this and had to do it on the spot, which added unnecessary stress. Once the form was completed and I received the QR code, the process was straightforward. Make sure you have the following ready:
- The item
- Receipt(s)
- Your passport
Rushing to the Gate
I had originally planned to enjoy breakfast at the AMEX Lounge (a perk of my American Express Qantas Ultimate card), but time was not on my side. Instead, I grabbed a quick mocha and sausage roll before heading straight to the gate.
The Flight Experience
While I was booked on a Philippine Airlines flight, the plane itself was operated by Wamos Air. This is due to a wet-lease agreement between the two airlines, which allows Philippine Airlines to temporarily use Wamos Air planes, including their crew and services. These agreements are common during peak travel seasons to accommodate increased passenger demand or fleet maintenance schedules.
The cabin was decent, though the air conditioning was noticeably strong—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to cold. The in-flight meal was a pleasant surprise. I opted for the chicken and noodles, which were flavorful and satisfying. For anyone prone to motion sickness, I recommend packing medication like Kwells. It worked wonders for me, allowing me to sleep through most of the flight.
Though the in-flight entertainment was somewhat limited, it offered enough to keep me entertained during the moments I wasn’t asleep. All in all, the flight was smooth and comfortable.
Key Takeaways and Tips for First-Time Travelers
- Arrive early: Long queues at check-in, security, and immigration can eat into your time.
- Pack light and smart: Compact luggage and well-organized carry-ons make a big difference.
- Use the TRS app: Save time at the airport by filling out refund forms in advance.
- Plan your meals wisely: If you have access to lounges, factor in extra time to enjoy them.
- Prepare for in-flight comfort: Bring a jacket for cold cabins and motion sickness medication if needed.
Final Thoughts
My first trip to the Philippines was a memorable one, starting with this flight experience. While there were a few hiccups along the way, the journey itself was smooth overall. Whether you’re flying with Philippine Airlines or another carrier, preparation is key to a stress-free trip.