I Took a $199 Flight to Paris on Low-cost Airline French Bee — Here's What It Was Like

Booking and Pre-Flight Preparations

Securing the $199 fare required some flexibility and a willingness to travel light. This base fare, often advertised, is the "Basic" option. This means you're essentially paying for a seat and a small personal item. Any checked baggage, seat selection, meals, or entertainment require extra fees. I opted for the "Smart" package, which included a checked bag and a meal, adding about $80 to the cost. Still, under $300 for a flight to Paris felt like a steal!

Here's a quick comparison of the different fare options offered by French Bee:

It's crucial to pay close attention to baggage restrictions with low-cost airlines. French Bee's website outlines specific size and weight limits for both personal items and checked baggage. Exceeding these limits can result in hefty fees at the airport, negating the savings from the cheap ticket. I meticulously measured and weighed my bag to avoid any surprises.

The Airport Experience

Check-in at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) was surprisingly smooth. Despite the numerous passengers taking advantage of the budget airline fares, the lines moved efficiently. The staff were helpful and professional. Security was standard fare, and before long, I was at the gate, eagerly anticipating my flight to Paris. The boarding process was orderly, and I was pleased to find that the plane was clean and relatively new.

Onboard Comfort and Entertainment

The seats on French Bee are, understandably, more compact than on traditional airlines. Legroom was sufficient for me (I'm 5'8"), but taller passengers might find it a bit cramped. I recommend considering purchasing extra legroom if you value comfort on long flights. The "Smart" package included one meal, which was a passable airplane meal – nothing spectacular, but adequate. If you're a picky eater, bringing your own snacks is a good idea.

Entertainment is another area where budget airlines cut costs. While French Bee does offer onboard entertainment, it’s not included in the "Basic" or "Smart" fares. Passengers can purchase access to a selection of movies and TV shows for an additional fee. I opted to download some content on my phone beforehand to keep myself entertained during the flight. Wi-Fi is also available for purchase. The cabin crew were friendly and attentive, providing prompt service throughout the flight. They were particularly helpful with passengers who had questions or needed assistance.

Arrival in Paris

The flight itself was uneventful, and we landed at Orly Airport (ORY) in Paris on time. Immigration and customs were efficient, and I was quickly on my way to explore the city of lights. My checked bag arrived without any issues, and I was ready to start my Parisian adventure.

Final Verdict: Is French Bee Worth It?

Flying French Bee for $199 was a worthwhile experience. While the low-cost airline experience requires some adjustments and compromises, the savings are significant. If you're flexible with your travel dates, willing to travel light, and prepared to pay extra for amenities like meals and entertainment, French Bee can be an excellent way to make your dream of visiting Paris a reality. Just be sure to factor in the additional costs for baggage and other extras when comparing prices to traditional airlines. For budget-conscious travelers looking for cheap flights to Paris, French Bee is definitely worth considering. The money saved on the flight can be used to enhance your experience in Paris, whether it's indulging in delicious pastries or visiting more attractions. Remember to always check for the most up-to-date travel advisories and entry requirements before your flight.