I’m guessing I don’t stand alone when I say that in the U.S., I preferred the low cost airlines by a wide margin. Not only do companies like JetBlue and Southwest Airlines offer a better customer experience and cost less, but they are profitable, which is something you’ve got to respect. It actually came to the point where I almost refused to fly anywhere that JetBlue didn’t go because I had such bad experiences with the big airlines.
So on Sunday, Day 120 of challenging myself to be more Brazilian, we flew from Rio de Janeiro back to Sao Paulo on the low cost option in Brazil – Webjet.
Similar to the low cost airlines in U.S., Webjet doesn’t offer yucky complimentary airline snacks and drinks – you have to pay. You also don’t get a seat assignment, but must fend for yourself for seats once you arrive on the plane – a little worrisome when you are traveling as a family of three. But there was nothing to be concerned about as the aircraft of our R$50 one-way flight was only about half full.
Staff was friendly. We paid a few bucks for drinks and snacks, but it wasn’t like I felt I was missing out on an overly processed, tasteless meal. The staff was friendly and the plane was clean. Really, you can’t ask for much more.
Only downside was that we had to walk, in a bit of a drizzle, from the plane to the airport. Not a disaster.
It’s nice to know that this is an option in Brazil because I was really missing JetBlue.
born again brazilian 
Good to know, i’ll look forward to doing some city hopping next time i’m in Brazil. My husband said it used to be hugely expensive to travel within the country.
Yes, there are so many places to see. I hope this company sticks around.
I have a feeling air tickets in Brazil have become a lot more accessible in recent years. Nowadays you see flights to places that I could swear people only visited by car or coach before.
I think you are right.
Hello Born Again Brazilian, I was trying to find your email address or “contact us” portion of your blog but couldn’t. I don’t want to be spammy (you know that guy) but as a small start up focused on expats and travelers I would love to talk to you about what we’re doing, what we can do for you, and get some of your feedback. If you could email us at wanderinggenie.hotmail.com or leave us your email address in a comment at wanderinggenie.wordpress.com we’ll send you an email. Thanks for your time it’s GREATLY APPRECIATED! Cheers
That’s weird. My email should be there.
It is hi@bornagainbrazilian.com.
Thanks, if it’s OK I’ll send you my email. I do sincerely appreciate your time.
I am not a fan of Webjet, but they usually are the cheapest out there. I hate that you cannot even get a glass of water but have to shell out R$3 for it. My favorite airline, which is actually owed by the JetBlue guy is Azul. VERY compfy seats and great service. Avianca also tends to be pretty cheap. Of course Webjet now belongs to GOL so that may not mean such low fares in the future.
Exactly, Corinne.
“Azul” (www.voeazul.com.br/) and “JetBlue” are twin companies owned by the american David Neeleman. He is a great entrepreneur by the way.
Excellent! I should have guessed. Can’t wait to fly Azul! JetBlue is genius.
Ok, must try Azul!
David Neeleman was actually born in Brazil. His parents are American. If I am not mistaken, they were missionaries in Brazil when David was born there.
The fact that his is a native Brazilian made a lot easier for him to start “AZUL” Airlines.
Ray