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✈️ “Cheap is Very Expensive”: My Best and Worst Airlines Ranked  From Chaos to Comfort

They promised affordable flights. I got dry sandwiches, zero refunds, and airport ghosting. Here’s my honest take on the 3 worst and 3 best airlines I’ve flown solo  with tips, warnings, and a little travel prayer.

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🛑 The Worst Airlines (Fly at Your Own Risk)

1. Condor Airlines: The Striped Mystery of the Skies

• Ever boarded a plane and thought, Am I flying or serving a sentence? That’s Condor for you  with planes painted in bold yellow-white, blue-white, or orange-white stripes that look like flying prison jumpsuits. The aesthetic is so confusing, you might start reciting your rights before takeoff. Add to that no free water, no reps at the airport, and no mercy even breathing feels billable.

• Why it's the worst: No airport staff to assist, hidden fees everywhere, even for basic things, and food that tastes like punishment. You feel alone at the airport.

• Lesson: Just because it's German doesn't mean it’s efficient.

2. Spirit Airlines  “You Get What You Didn’t Pay For”

• Why it's bad: Frequent cancellations, delays, and no-frills taken to the extreme. No water, no help, no apologies.

• Lesson: They can cancel your flight but not your regret.

3. Frontier Airlines  The Disappearing Act

• Why it's bad: Hard to reach customer service, very few airport reps, and the planes feel like an afterthought.

• Lesson: If you're lucky, you’ll land… eventually.

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💎 The Best Airlines (Fly Like a Queen)

1. Emirates

• Nickname: The Royal Treatment

• Why it’s great: Great food, attentive staff, and everything is on time. Even in economy, you feel like you're flying first class.

• Bonus: Beats British Airways hands down.

  
  
  

  2. Qatar Airways

• Nickname: A Soft Landing

• Why it’s great: Food is excellent, comfort level is high, and the entertainment is top tier. Customer service can be hit or miss, but the rest makes up for it.

• Bonus: Feels like a luxury hotel in the sky.

3. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• Nickname: The Gentle Giant

• Why it’s great: It’s like a motherly hug from check-in to landing. Staff are kind, organized, and make you feel valued.

• Bonus: Clean planes, decent food, no drama.

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✍🏾 Final Thought:

Not all cheap tickets are created equal. Sometimes, saving $50 costs you your peace of mind. And when you're a solo traveler, peace is priceless.

Pennywise and Passport Foolish: My $890 Lesson in Sky-Level Regret (A Condor Airlines Survival Tale)

“Have you ever heard the saying ‘cheap is expensive’? I hadn’t  until I boarded Condor Airlines.”

 There are adventures… and then there are warnings. This, my friend, is the latter.

Let me take you back. I was flying from Seattle to Paris to attend the Cannes Film Festival (more on that beautiful whirlwind in another post). Like any savvy budget traveler, I was on the hunt for a good deal  something that wouldn’t burn my wallet before I even touched French soil. Amid the flight options from KLM, British Airways, and Lufthansa, I stumbled on what felt like a miracle: Condor Airlines, offering a roundtrip ticket for only $890.

KLM was hovering around $1,000+. “Bingo!” I thought. Pennywise and travel-wise. Oh, how wrong I was.

✈️ Welcome to the Condor Experience

If I could give out awards, Condor Airlines would walk away with the gold for Worst Airline Experience in the World. And trust me  I don’t hand out that kind of title lightly.

Let’s start with the basics: Condor has no in-person representatives at any airport. Seattle? Nope. Paris? Nope. Frankfurt? Keep dreaming. If you’ve got a question or an issue (and you will), you’re stuck playing a sad game of customer service telephone with people who will remind you: “I don’t work for Condor. I work for the airport.”

Hidden Fees Galore

• $35 just to check in because my phone wasn’t working.

• $99 to check in my handbag  a handbag, not a suitcase!

• $199 for a seat upgrade because otherwise, I couldn’t bring my bag onboard.

• Food? Let’s just say... if you’ve ever wondered what prison meals taste like at 30,000 feet, Condor’s got you covered. I’ve had better snacks in jury duty holding rooms.

Delays Without Decency

The flight from Paris was scheduled to depart at 8:00 a.m. We boarded after 8:30. No announcements. No staff. No apology. Just confused passengers and a terminal that looked like a forgotten ghost town.

By the time I arrived in Germany for my layover, I was already counting the euros this “budget” airline had cost me. And then came the kicker: I was expected to pay another $99 in Germany to bring my same bag onto the next leg to Seattle. That’s $200 round trip for a handbag that wouldn’t make it past TSA without being scolded in America.

So what did I do?

🧥 The Great Condor Clothes Layering Escape

I put every piece of clothing I had... on my body. Yes, I layered up like I was heading for an Arctic expedition. I looked like a character from a children’s book who got dressed in the dark. But I saved myself the extra $99 and walked onto that flight without my bag, dignity slightly dented, but victorious.

💡 Travel Tips for the Real Ones

1. Avoid Condor at all costs. I know, $890 is tempting. But when the hidden fees, the stress, and the poor customer service hit  you’ll wish you spent the extra $100 on a reputable airline.

2. Always check if your ticket includes baggage, meals, and check-in access. Sometimes, the “cheap” ticket only buys you a seat and a headache.

3. Call ahead if your airline has no counter at the airport. And pray someone answers.

4. Bring snacks. Prison food isn’t travel food.

   
   

🕊️ Final Words from 30,000 Feet

Pennywise and Passport Foolish: Navigating the Globe on a Shoestring is all about making smart choices with limited resources. But the Condor experience wasn’t about resourcefulness  it was a lesson in survival. Sometimes saving money means spending a little more to protect your peace.

And friend, if you’re ever tempted by Condor’s low prices… I’m begging you  don’t. Not even for the story.

Voices Across Borders: Why I Keep Telling Stories Even When I’m Alone

There was a time I packed my suitcase, not just with clothes  but with questions.

I was chasing festivals, funding, and sometimes… myself.
From Cannes to Dodoma, Cape Town to Texas  I traveled solo.
But I was never really alone. Because I carry stories with me. Sometimes they’re my own. Sometimes, they belong to women I meet in passing  in cafes, in train stations, on broken film sets. This blog Pennywise and Passport Foolish: Navigating the Globe on a Shoestring Voices Across Borders  is a space for those stories.

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🌍 What This Blog Will Be About:

• Behind the scenes of filmmaking in unexpected places

• Solo travel as an African woman the beauty and the breakdowns

• Conversations with women across the world (like Rebecca, the children’s author I met at Cannes)

• Letters from my soul on what it means to create across cultures

• Personal lessons on rejection, rewriting, and rising again

  
  

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✈️ Why It Matters:

I used to blog about solo travel. I stopped. But I never stopped walking.
Now, I want to bring that same honesty into my work as a filmmaker and author
Because truthfully…
Every border I’ve crossed  physical or emotional  has made me the storyteller I am.

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💬 Call to Action:

I’d love for you to join this journey.
Subscribe. Share. Or just stay and listen.
There’s room for your voice here too.

Love,
Honeymoon
Filmmaker | Editor of Her Voyage & People of Africa

#WomenWhoTravel #StorytellingAcrossBorders #FilmmakersJourney #PanAfricanVoices #SoloTravelWriter #HerVoyage #PeopleOfAfrica

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Next on Pennywise and Passport Foolish: Navigating the Globe on a Shoestring
“Voices Across Borders” is a space for the stories we carry  even when the luggage is light.

In the next post, I’ll take you behind the scenes of Love in Transit  The Last Stop Was You, the soulful series first published in Her Voyage Magazine.
Before it became an audio mini-series, it was a love letter written in the quiet corners of train stations and whispered through hotel walls. A story of heartbreak, healing, and the one unforgettable moment in Pretoria that brought it all to life.https://issuu.com/peopleofafrica/docs/hervoyagemag_aug-sep_issue_

✨ Stay close. The next stop is almost here.

Discovering Dodoma: Unveiling the Hidden Charms of Tanzania's Capital

 

Embark on a Journey Through Scenic Hills,

Culinary Delights, and Rich Culture in
Dodoma

Greetings, dear readers! Welcome back to our global escapades with Pennywise and Passport Foolish, where we traverse the world on a shoestring budget. Today, our compass points towards the land that made me Idodomeya, and within its embrace, we find ourselves captivated by the enchanting city of love and treasure.

While Dodoma might not be a typical tourist attraction, the hidden gems within its borders promise an adventure waiting to be uncovered. "East, West, Home is the best," and that's why a cup of tea from Sherry’s Café tastes a lot better than the hot coffee in Milan.

If you have a penchant for hiking, then Dodoma is your haven. Growing up in this beautiful city, hiking to Area D and conquering the mountaintop was our favorite pastime. While the prime minister's office now stands where our mountain once thrived, fear not! Zuzu, Magareza, and other hills still offer breathtaking hikes.

During the rainy season, don't miss out on the magic of Lake Bubu or Surangai, as the locals fondly call it, just an hour away from Dodoma. Its scenic beauty is Instagram-ready, providing a backdrop for countless memorable pictures.

 

And if you're feeling adventurous, drive an extra 30 minutes from Lake Bubu to reach the heart of Tanzania, near Kilimatinde, my birthplace. Here, you'll witness the awe-inspiring views of the Rift Valley and may even stumble upon the graves of German soldiers from World War I.

For a taste of traditional food and local life, visit the village of Maweni. Live like the locals, savor their cuisine, and immerse yourself in their rich history, all on a budget of $25 a day. The most enchanting experience awaits you under a night-born fire, surrounded by hundreds of stars. June to August might bring chilly nights, but it's the perfect time to embrace the cold and discover the warmth of Dodoma.

Dodoma is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a culinary delight too. Indulge in street foods like Chips Mayai, a Tanzanian potato frittata, and relish wild fruits like furu, ngweru, and ubuyu. The region is a wine lover's paradise, as most East African wines source their grapes from Dodoma. 

Take a 30-minute ride to Mpunguzi for miles of picturesque vineyards and the most delicious grapes. During harvest season, treat yourself to the local wine, available at ALKO Vintage Co. Ltd. For a complete experience, head to the Hut of Wine & Cheese or Collina Restaurant and Wine Bar to quench your thirst.

If you find yourself in Dodoma on a Saturday, make sure to attend Mnadani hosting a BBQ festival every week. This Nyama choma-style (East African BBQ) event boasts the tastiest meats in the country. Before bidding farewell, wind up your adventure with a cup of coffee from Sherry’s Café, offering a 5-star café vibe at local, budget-friendly prices.

While there are no direct international flights to Dodoma, the journey is part of the adventure. Fly into Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar, and embark on a 6 to 8-hour road trip from Dar. Alternatively, take a bus for $20 to $30, a 10-hour scenic route, or opt for a one-hour flight from Dar to Dodoma for $100 to $130 one way.

With an open heart, thank you for visiting our humble city. Dodoma may not be on every tourist's bucket list, but its charm and offerings are well worth the visit. Until next time, Karibu Idodomeya  welcome to our extraordinary city!

 

 

Serengeti Splendor: Embark on an African Safari Adventure!

 

Discover the Magic of Tanzania's Endless Plains with Pennywise and Passport Foolish

 🌍 Discovering Serengeti: Where the Wild Roams Free! 🦓🌅

Welcome back to our globetrotting adventures with Pennywise and Passport Foolish! Today, our compass guides us to the breathtaking Serengeti, a land where animals roam like they own the square gardens of Manhattan. 🐘✨

Derived from the Maasai language, Serengeti means "endless plains," and indeed, it lives up to its name. This ancient ecosystem, the oldest and most complex in the world, invites you to join us on an extraordinary journey.

The Serengeti, a jewel in Tanzania's crown, is the ultimate African safari destination. Picture golden sunsets and witness the earth-shaking spectacle of the Great Migration, where over two million animals migrate between Kenya and Tanzania. 🌅🦓

This national park, the pride of Tanzania, consistently exceeds visitors' imaginations year after year. If you're dreaming of encountering the Big Five in their natural habitat, Serengeti is your sanctuary, a park with no fences, allowing a seamless connection between animals and humans. 🦁🦒

"The Serengeti shall never die"

Among the myriad wonders of the Serengeti, none captivate the heart and soul quite like the legendary animal migration. Picture this: a spectacle of epic proportions as over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the vast plains in search of greener pastures. This annual migration, often dubbed the 'Greatest Show on Earth,' is a testament to the raw beauty and natural wonder of the Serengeti. Witnessing this awe-inspiring event firsthand is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves visitors spellbound, reminding us of the untamed majesty of the African wilderness.

Now, I've given you plenty of reasons to add Serengeti to your bucket list, so let's talk logistics. While we all love a budget-friendly adventure, some experiences are worth the extra dime. Solo travel is my jam, but Serengeti is even more magical with friends or fellow travelers, especially when capturing those once-in-a-lifetime safari moments. 📸🌿

Accommodations range from $160 to $1500 per night, offering an experience tailored to your preferences. Pro tip: Crack the code and visit during the low season for exclusive deals. I recently snagged a stay at Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge for $200 per night, down from the usual $350. Trust me; it's worth every penny! 💸🏞️

And when it comes to the tour, Mauly Tours made my Serengeti dream a reality. Not a paid ad, just genuine appreciation for their fantastic service. Shoutout to drivers Mr. Adam and Peter, who not only guided us through the wilderness but also made every moment unforgettable. 🚙🌍

Consider taking their packages for a hassle-free adventure; it's almost like a buy one, get one free deal for hotels. Mauly Tours offers trips starting from low budget to high end spend can hook you up with hotels deals offers. Entrance fees to the park are $71 for 24 hours and $59 per night, with discounts for kids.

Plan a week for your Serengeti adventure two days for travel and five days to immerse yourself in the wonders of this mesmerizing land. While it might not be the most budget-friendly destination, the priceless experiences it brings to your life are worth every moment. Remember, we are only live once; let's make it count! 🌍✈️

Until next week, Asante from Tanzania, my friends! 🇹🇿 #SerengetiMagic #WildlifeAdventure #SafariDreams #TanzaniaTravel #BucketListDestination #TravelExperiences

Welcome to Tanzania the land of Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and Serengeti

 

Tanzania Unveiled: Your Gateway to Paradise - From Lake Natron to Zanzibar's Beauty and Serengeti's Sunset Splendor 

Karibu Tanzania 

Welcome back to our global escapades with Pennywise and Passport Foolish, where we traverse the world on a shoestring budget. Today, our compass points towards Southeast Africa, to the land that means the world to me, the land where I took my first breath. They call it Tanzania, simply I  call it home.

So, for the next few weeks, I am thrilled to extend an invitation to you to explore the most beautiful country in the world. Yes, you heard me right - the most beautiful place on Earth. After all, as the saying goes, east or west, home is always the best. Tanzania is blessed with unparalleled beauty, from the majestic heights of Mount Kilimanjaro, the national parks like Mikumi, Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro, to the serene coastal paradise of Saadani, the enchanting islands of Unguja, Pemba, and Mafia, and the mystical Lake Natron where animals turn to stone.

Let's not forget the breathtaking Lake Tanganyika and the legendary source of the Nile, Lake Victoria. And oh, the anticipation of welcoming you to the heart of Tanzania - Dodoma, where my roots run deep and Houston, Texas, shaped the woman I am today. So, with that, welcome to Tanzania.

This week, I'll be your guide to Tanzania, offering general tips to help you choose where to visit based on your interests. From next week onward, I'll handpick cities and invite you to explore them with me.

As a Tanzanian, I guarantee that when you visit Tanzania, you'll feel right at home. Tanzanian people are among the most humble souls you'll ever encounter. Our neighboring countries may jest that we are laid-back and unhurried, and while there may be some truth to that, we always get things done albeit, at our own pace. So, when you're in Tanzania, please don't rush. Relax and take it easy; this is Bongo, where we use our brains more than our feet. Plan ahead and allow time to guide you.

Our street food delights in Tanzania are aplenty from the beloved "frittata," which we fondly call Chips Mayai, a simple yet satisfying combo of fries and eggs, to Baobao candy, "Ubuyu," mangoes with a kick of chili, and roasted cassava. Our traditional cuisine varies across regions, but staples like Ugali (cornmeal porridge) and Wali (steamed rice) are ubiquitous, often accompanied by beans, a Tanzanian favorite. Mornings are greeted with tea and Maandazi (sweet doughnuts), chapati, or Mtori (green banana soup), a surprising delight worth savoring. And let's not forget the abundance of fresh vegetables and holiday feasts featuring Nyama Choma (BBQ) Birian and Pilau.

Tanzanians embrace both Islam and Christianity, living harmoniously with love and respect for one another's beliefs. You'll find us celebrating religious holidays together, whether it's the call of Muslim prayers echoing through the cities or the festive cheer of Christmas.

When it comes to dressing in Tanzania, a bit of conservatism goes a long way, especially for women. Our culture values modesty, so attire that's too revealing may attract unwanted attention, particularly in coastal areas where Islam predominates. Respect for local customs, especially during Ramadan, is greatly appreciated.

Tanzania is vast  it takes one and a half times the size of Texas to get around! If you're planning a week-long visit, tailor your travels to what you want to see. Two weeks, however, afford you the luxury of exploring both the islands and the mainland.

For a week-long island getaway, Unguja, Pemba, and Mafia await. If you crave the tourist buzz, head to Unguja, where the city caters to travelers. For a more laid-back experience, Pemba and Mafia beckon with their simple charms.

If an animal safari is your dream, northern Tanzania is where you belong. Serengeti, Manyara, and Ngorongoro await your exploration. And for the adventurous souls, Kilimanjaro stands tall, beckoning climbers to its summit. Don't forget the awe-inspiring Lake Natron, where nature's wonders never cease.

Southern Tanzania boasts its own treasures for tourists from the breathtaking Kitulo National Park, a haven of wildflowers, to the rugged beauty of Ruaha National Park and the captivating landscapes of Mikumi and Udzungwa National Parks

Allow me to introduce you to the city I proudly call home - Dodoma, the capital of Tanzania. With its rolling savannahs, towering baobab trees, and the tranquil Lake Sulunga (Bahi Swamp), Dodoma is a testament to Tanzania's natural splendor. Explore the ancient Kondoa rock art sites and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Swahili people.

And for those who seek to revel in the nightlife, Tanzanians know how to party! Our clubs are open seven days a week, testament to our love for music and fun. Soccer is our sport, and joy fills the air as we celebrate life.

Welcome to Tanzania! Over the next few weeks, I'll be your guide through the humble Swahili lands of Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, and the home of Zanzibar. Karibu to our home, where the spirit of Africa beckons you to explore, discover, and cherish every moment.

Sirmione Serenade: Finding Love in Italy's Final Gem After Leaving My Heart in Sicily

Journey's End on Lake Garda - Reveling in the Last, Most Beautiful City of Italy's Grand Tour

After wandering through the city of love, Verona, soaking in the stunning views from Selvino's mountain peak, experiencing the enchantment of the floating city, Venice, and leaving a piece of my heart in Trapani, Sicily, our journey concludes in the charming town of Sirmione. Welcome back to "Pennywise and Passport Foolish: Navigating the Globe on a Shoestring" this fine Friday.

Is Sirmione worth a visit? Without a doubt yes! However, if you plan a summer visit, brace yourself for hordes of tourists. Here's a little secret: visit in early October, and you'll find a quieter Sirmione with lower prices for accommodations, food, and everything in between. Since our goal is to experience luxury on a budget, October is the golden month.

Walking is the way to explore this gem, and if you're not a fan, most hotels offer bicycles for daily rent. Sirmione exudes a welcoming vibe with the picturesque Lake Garda and the most charming villages Italy has to offer. Opt for a four-hour boat tour starting at 500 euros—it's a splurge, but here's a tip: share the cost with fellow travelers to make it more budget-friendly.

For a shorter, wallet-friendly option, take a 30-minute tour of Lake Garda for around 20 euros. Learn not just history but also about the lake's thermal waters, rich in minerals like sulfur and sodium, gushing up from its depths at a toasty 70°C.

Explore the historical landmark, Grotte di Catullo, surrounded by olive trees and offering a breathtaking view. Entrance fee: 9 euros. Sirmione unfolds its medieval charm with thermal spas, beaches, and a town embraced by gardens. Perfect for lovers or those seeking a soulful connection.

Don't miss a visit to Jamaica Beach for a unique rocky shoreline experience. The ScaligeroCastle is a must-see, preserving its medieval charm. Climb to the top of the tower and fort walls for the best views.

While strolling, the Flower House with a small café blanketed in purple bougainvillea will melt your heart. And like many places in Italy, there's Santa Maria Della Neve, a 15th-century church to explore.

My trusty notes and paper from the tough guide turned my spending into an educational endeavor (or so I tell myself). A day trip from Verona or Milan is ideal, but if you choose to stay in Sirmione, two days should suffice to explore the lake, castle, and indulge in gelato from the many shops within the Scaliger Castle.

Speaking of food, while Sirmione isn't the cheapest, booking in advance can land you deals. I stayed at Hotel Porto Azzurro, a three-star hotel with a seven-star breakfast. Pro tip: hotels that offer breakfast save you money on morning meals, leaving room to indulge in a lavish dinner.

Yes, the dinners can be pricey I once spent 50 euros on a plate of pasta and seafood. It was delicious, but not necessarily out-of-this-world good. Overall, the experience in Sirmione is one you won't regret.

And let's talk about gelato! The Scaliger Castle boasts an array of gelato shops with massive scoops. I battled through two flavors, and let me tell you, it was a war worth fighting.

Italy was truly worth every penny and moment invested. I reveled in the warmth of its people and immersed myself in the rich tapestry of its history, particularly falling head over heels for its cuisine. While every city I explored held its own charm, Trapani undeniably captured my heart. Sicily, you've left an indelible mark on me. From wandering the streets of love in Verona to marveling at the breathtaking vistas from Selvino's mountain peaks, and being enchanted by the floating marvel of Venice, each experience was unforgettable. 

Thank you for journeying with me through Italy. Next week, in "Pennywise and Passport Foolish: Navigating the Globe on a Shoestring," I'll be taking you to my homeland, Tanzania, where Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and the Serengeti await. I'm eager to welcome you to my home.