As mums, it’s often up to us to plan the holidays … and do all the bookings!
Whether it’s the destination, the accommodation or the airline, there’s nothing better when you’re making your decisions than reviews, ratings and recommendations from people just like you.
In this review, we’re asking you for your AIRLINE Reviews, Ratings and Recommendations.
Whether your experience was good, bad or outstanding, we want to hear all about it.
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Each of the Airline reviews you post that meet the terms and conditions give you another entry to win the $200, so post as many airline reviews as you like! It’s all about sharing your experiences so that others can make the right decision.
So … when it comes to AIRLINES … which one would you fly again?
Which one would you recommend? Which one rates highly with you?
*Reviews over 50 words with all star ratings complete will be automatically entered into the draw to win a $200 Prepaid VISA card. Entries open to 31 December 2015. Winners will be advised by 21 January 2016.
I flew Emirates to the UK for the first time recently and to say I was impressed was an understatement.
I was flying without my husband, but I did have our 18 month old in tow, and so I was extremely apprehensive about how the flight would go.
From check-in to the moment the plane touched down, the staff were so welcoming, helpful and accomodating. They did everything they could to make the journey as comfortable as possible, especially on descent when my little one's ears were becoming problematic.
I couldn't be more appreciative of the Emirates team and look forward to flying with them again.
Qantas is my preference for International flights. I love that meals are included in the price, escpecially if you have multiple flights in one day or a long flight. I have found Qantas staff to be professional and approachable. I like that it is an Aussie Company providing incomes to plenty of Aussies around Australia and abroad. I have recommended Qantas to friends and family already because i honestly have enjoyed all my flights with them so far.
I've flown with Virgin a number of times and compared to the other airlines I feel it's value for money. Especially compared to the other domestic airlines. It has Comfortable seats with sufficient leg room. Friendly, courteous attendants. Prices are usually pretty competitive. Not as expensive as Qantas and much more comfortable than Jetstar.
Qantas is and has been my airline of choice for years. Always top service, comfortable seats, good amount of room, accommodating to families and amazing when an unexpected disruption occurs.
I was homebound from Hong Kong to Sydney and there was a major Cyclone that was about to go over the top of us - category 5! We were on standby at the airport to try and get an earlier flight home - they got us on the flight at no extra charge. We boarded the plane to go and unfortunately due to weather had to get back off the plane as the weather had escalated faster than expected. We ended up we had to spend the night sleeping in the airport. They staff were amazing - giving us pillows, blankets, water, food. They checked on us throughout the night. The next morning we were given food and drink vouchers and they kept us fully updated on what was happening and when our departure might occur. We were boarded as soon as possible and left Hong Kong on the first flight out. I can't speak highly enough of their professionalism and care in a scary situation. I will always choose them as first choice when flying.
Despite being the budget airline, the plane we board from perth to singapore was a big airplane and comfortable. I definitely will fly again with flyscoot
I just flew from Melbourne to Perth and could not have asked for better service from the time I booked to the time I walked out of the airport. Highly receommended
We flew with Scoot when they first began operation - the flight from Sydney to Singapore was only $99! I would definitely recommend them, for a budget airline they provided great service, and there was actually a little bit more leg space than AirAsia. They often have sales so keep an eye out!
We recently flew Qantas from Adelaide to Sydney return and had a fabulous experience. I am in a wheelchair so was boarded first with my family and and all organised before other passengers were boarded.
Then assisted off at the other end. The hosts/hostesses were fantastic and nothing was to much trouble, this appeared to be the case for everyone on the plane. When arriving in Adelaide there was a bit of a mix up with my wheelchair, but nothing was to much trouble and the staff even once sorted assisted us to our taxi. Would definitely fly Qantas again.
An extra reason for loving Singapore Airlines came up the other day when I was discussing airlines and airline food with friends. We had Gordon Ramsey food on the plane and it was such a wonderful treat and the food was simply wonderful. Everyone complains about airline food but I have to say it really was wonderful and we looked forward to every meal and every snack.
Singapore Airlines also gets my vote for best overseas airline because of the caution and care they show to people with allergies. We were given 5 start treatment for allergies and they made sure there was no way that a particular allergen was on board the plane. They even provided individual customer support. Reassuring and comforting when on a plane and dealing with life threatening allergies.
The first time I flew with Virgin Australia I was 21 and it was the first time travelling without the parents internationally. Virgin Australia were newly flying Internationally at this stage so it was a bit nerve-racking to say the least!
But none-the-less, they were the cheapest airline carrier to America..
We were thoroughly impressed with their service and everything they had to offer to us (My boyfriend and I). We came back to Aus raving about them!
And now, with the change of Virgin to serve food and the like, we only fly with them Nationally! The smaller planes are not as delightful as they are the older planes without a TV - But in saying that we only have had this plane once on the Red-Eye when all we did was sleep! So I guess a win-win!
Would definitely recommend nationally or internationally! They are a great carrier with lovely, helpful staff!!
Paid for insurance on our flights in case we had to cancel. Didn't realise there were conditions, plus $100 fee to make a claim. Hubby ended up having to cancel due to a beloved pet becoming sick and dying. This is not a good enough reason to cancel, no refund. To keep our money, we had to rebook, even though we have no future travel plans. Couldn't rebook for the price we paid either, even though booking is 6 months away. Had to pay the difference between what we paid and the full price fares :/ only good thing about Jetstar is the hostesses. They are lovely, nothing is too much trouble. Flying Virgin next time
Just before Christmas we flew to Hobart from Melbourne with our 2.5 year old and our 9 month. I was nervous about the trip to say the least. But, we flew Virgin and the whole experience was amazing. We were made to feel so welcome both at the terminal and on board and the staff were very accommodating; offering to warm bottles and giving toddler extra snacks. The only airline we will fly with kids!
Qantas is my preference for International flights. I love that meals are included in the price, escpecially if you have multiple flights in one day or a long flight. I have found Qantas staff to be professional and approachable. I like that it is an Aussie Company providing incomes to plenty of Aussies around Australia and abroad. I have recommended Qantas to friends and family already because i honestly have enjoyed all my flights with them so far.
Excellent service! Every time my family fly with them they go out of their way to make sure we are comfortable & have everything we need. I have mobility issues & every flight has been made as smooth and easy as possible. We don't feel like they are put out by us at all. I recommend them to everyone
I flew Emirates from Sydney - Lisbon via Dubai in August with my almost 2 year old. We booked a seat for him so we would have space to spread out which was a great idea.
The staff were all very friendly, with some offering to take my son for a cuddle so we could have a break. The little one refused of course!
Kids meals were served first, with plenty of snacks that could be saved for later.
They also provided a baby amenities kit - wipes, bib, disposable change mat, baby lotion.
The kids toys were also great - a snuggly blanket in its own plushy character carry case and activity sets.
The staff also have a Polaroid camera to take photos during the flight.
Overall a great experience with the staff and inclusions for kids. Would recommend and would fly with Emirates again!
I have never flown Emirates before, usually I prefer Qantas when flying long distances, however my travel agent too free reign and booked these guys instead. I was actually quite impressed with them in the end. They are punctual, pleasant, food is not bad, spacious (not a full flight from europe to dubai) and generally all 'round a great airline. Thumbs up
It's been a while since I took a Qantas flight (about to lose my silver status), but earlier this month I had to travel to Dubai for work. I am reminded of why Qantas is my preferred airline. Staff are friendly, planes either modern or modernised. Food is not terrible, economy seats a little too small for my liking. Flying home with them always makes me feel like I am on Australian territory before I arrive.
Before Jetstar was on the scene, Virgin used to be a really competitive airline, with value for money. Not any more. Not only are they hardly the cheapest anymore, but their service is just appalling. I recently took a flight from Sydney to Melbourne that was delayed FOUR hours. They didn't even offer me a drink. The worst part was that they had known since the night before (i.e., 15 HOURS!) that my flight would be delayed, and they made no attempt to contact me to prevent me arriving at the airport 4 hours early! The food and the staff are not that any more either. Would no longer recommend.
I've flown both domestically and overseas with Qantas and I must admit that they are my favourite to fly with. The staff are great, the planes are comfortable and dont feel as squashed up as some of the other airlines and they always have a great range of refreshments. I've also enjoyed earning frequent flyer points both through flying and with Woolworths, so this has saved me money on flights also.
Fantastic service and extras on other airlines are standard in the cost of the flight. I have used them not just to fly to Sydney but also as my airline of choice to fly to mainland America, it might take longer but the economy of scale of using them outrages the others. Plus their reward system is fantastic and you see excellent returns if you can get to the next level.
we love to travel so i am always looking for a bargin in australia and overseas. Here in australia I always find great deasls with tiger and Virgin. Tiger is cheaper , if we go to QLD i bring some snacks for the kids and in 2hrs we are in coolangatta. Each time i get to the terminal it is quick and easy to get through. the last 2 times we travelled did not have to wait, everything was on time. Crew were great and friendly. Our bags arrived with us to our destination!!seats are comfortable. On return, checked in got our seats and did not wait too long .
When flying with Virgin i also have have a great time. Seats are abit roomier but for short distances this does not phase our family. On cheaper tickets no food but once again does not worry us as i will be bring a snack for a 2 - 3 hr flight. Staff are helpful and flight went roughly on time. I will continue to fly both airlines. I get emails so keep up to date and plan early not to miss out on great deals around Australia and overseas. Look at my emails for a bargain.
I often fly Jetstar, Virgin and Qantas interstate 6-8 times a year with my daughter. Biggest problem for me is my height and the legroom of my seat. Often my legs touch the chair in front and if they recline I'm in trouble because I pretty much get stuck. How can no airline provide ample leg room? Traveling with a child I'm never given the seat near the exit. Why are we always pushed down the back? My daughter is 5 and doesn't cry or complain. I think airlines should put kids near the front to exit early. It's the waiting that makes them anxious. Might be easier to fly superman style sometimes LOL
I try to book with Emirates every time we fly from Syd to Chc especially when I fly with my kids as they love it. My son never gets sore ears when he flies with Emirates and the flight attendants are so great with the kids! I especially love how they bring out the kids meals first and provide activity packs for them. Knock on wood but we have been so lucky that there have never been any delays. You get 30kgs checked backage plus 10kgs hand luggage, whats not to love? The prices are also reasonable. Love flying Emirates!
I flew from Sydney to London via Bangkok and was delighted with the cleanliness of aircraft, politeness of the crew. My first impression was a feeling of welcome, especially when seated and found a delicate white orchid tucked into the back of the seat in front. The service was impeccable, the food was attractively served and delicious and the drinks were cold. Flight was on-time and boarding and disembarkation was hassle free.
I regularly choose to fly Virgin Australia. My usual consideration is Price, Timetable, In Flight Service, On Time Performance. Virgin Australia consistently lives up to my expectations. My only minor criticism is the included snack, which I find is not always appropriate for the time of day or drink option ie two choices would be appreciated - snack pack with cold beverage & cake with hot beverage. Only a suggestion!
LAN airlines mostly flies the south american route. We used this airline a lot to fly to and from Australian in the last couple of years, as well as domestic flights within south america. They are well priced, the stewards are nice, the food is not bad (some dishes are a bit awful, but we flew sooooo much with them). The planes are mostly modern - though they really could move to putting individual tv screens in their domestic planes. Overall, I'm quite happy with them.
I love jumping on a qantas plane on my way home from any destination. The accent alone makes me feel like I have already come home before leaving the airport. The stewards are mostly friendly (some shockers occasionally) and helpful. The food is quite good. The chairs ARE FAR TOO CLOSE TOGETHER, so it really does feel like cattle class, and the tickets are far too expensive what you get, but I'd still recommend them.
I recently travelled to New York with Qantas and I super impressed. The service was brilliant from purchase of ticket to check in and then the flight itself. The cabin staff were amazing. I was travelling with my sister niece and daughter and they made us so welcome and comfortable. On the way home my daughter had a little illness and they were fast to respond and took wonderful care of her. I always feel safe flying Qantas and they are.my airline of choice.
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Article
‘Trust Your Intuition’: How To Advocate For Your Child In Hospital
Mother’s instinct is a funny thing. At home, we trust it without question. But put us in a hospital setting with an unwell child, surrounded by doctors, nurses and monitors, and suddenly we start doubting ourselves.
What if I’m overreacting? What if I’ve got it wrong?
So we stay quiet, even when we know something just isn’t right with our child. I’ve been there myself – when my usually ‘tough’ son was doubled over with stomach pain. I was told in the emergency department that it probably wasn’t his appendix. But I knew he wouldn’t have begged me to take him to hospital unless it was serious. Because I know him better than anyone. Turns out, it was appendicitis.
It’s a really common place for parents to land. You’re grateful for the care your child is getting, but at the same time, you feel this huge responsibility to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.
Here’s the thing though: that instinct you’re feeling? It matters more than you might think.
Why your gut feeling matters more than you realise
According to Paediatric Nurse Unit Manager, Canterbury Hospital, Leticia Jackson, parents bring something to the hospital that no test or machine ever could.
“Parents often say they ‘just know’ when something isn’t quite right with their child, and in a hospital, that gut feeling is incredibly valuable,” she explains.
Leticia Jackson, Paediatric Nurse Unit Manager, Canterbury Hospital
While medical teams rely on observations, tests and equipment, parents know the little details. The way your child usually smiles. How they react when they’re tired. What’s normal for them.
So when something feels “off”, even if everything looks okay on paper, it can actually be an early warning sign.
“When parents trust those instincts and speak up, this creates a powerful partnership that can sometimes catch a problem before it becomes an emergency,” Leticia says.
Worried about speaking up? You’re not alone
A lot of parents hesitate about advocating for their child.
You don’t want to come across as difficult. You don’t want to question the people caring for your child. And sometimes, you just don’t feel confident enough to push the issue.
Leticia gets it.
“It is completely understandable for parents to feel hesitant,” she says. “No one wants to be seen as difficult or to second-guess the hardworking people caring for their child.”
But here’s a helpful way to look at it: you’re not challenging the medical team, you’re helping them.
Parents are the constant. Staff change shifts, care for multiple patients, and rely on snapshots of information. You’re there the whole time, noticing the subtle changes.
“Our medical team doesn’t view a concerned parent as overreactive, but as a partner,” Leticia explains. “Your voice matters.”
Remember, we know our children better than anyone.
What to do if you’re worried: the Raise It process
If you’re in a NSW public hospital or health service and you’re worried about you or your child’s condition getting worse, there is a clear process you can follow called Raise It.
Raise It is designed to help patients, carers and family members get help fast if they’re worried about a change in their loved one’s condition.
Here’s how it works:
Talk: Start by speaking to a nurse, midwife, doctor or health worker about your concerns.
Ask: Still worried? Ask to speak to the nurse or midwife in charge and request a Clinical Review.
Call: If you’re still concerned, you can escalate further using the Raise It process to get urgent attention from a senior health worker.
You don’t need medical knowledge. You don’t need to be certain. If you feel something isn’t right, or your child is getting worse, Raise It. You just need to speak up.
What should you actually look out for?
Sometimes it’s not one big, obvious sign. It can be small, subtle changes that just don’t sit right.
Things like:
Changes in breathing (fast, laboured or noisy)
Skin looking pale, mottled, or developing unusual rashes
Your child being unusually drowsy, floppy, or hard to wake
Confusion or behaviour that’s out of character
Pain that isn’t improving with treatment
Or simply that feeling that your child is getting worse
And sometimes, it’s just that gut feeling you can’t explain.
That’s enough.
“You are helping us, not bothering us”
If there’s one message Leticia wants parents to take away, it’s that you aren’t bothering the medical team, you’re helping them.
“In my years as a Nurse Unit Manager, I can say with absolute certainty that many critical changes in a child’s condition have been identified first by a parent. While our clinical staff are highly skilled at performing regular observations and interpreting data, parents are the only constant presence who truly know their child’s baseline behaviour, personality, and what is normal for them.
“I have seen numerous instances where a parent’s insistence that their child is “just not themselves” – despite vital signs appearing relatively stable – has prompted a deeper clinical review that uncovered everything from early signs of sepsis to a life-threatening respiratory crisis.”
The Raise It process exists because healthcare teams know how important parents are in keeping children safe.
“Speaking up doesn’t mean you don’t trust the team,” she says. “It means you’re partnering with us to make sure nothing gets missed.”
And if you’re still worried about being judged?
“Whether your concern turns out to be something or nothing, your instinct to raise it is always valid.”
As a parent of a child with cystic fibrosis, I’ve learned to trust my gut when something doesn’t feel right. We’ve had a few experiences where we’ve needed to go through different channels to raise concerns or frustrations with the hospital system to make sure our daughter got the care she needed. It’s great to see programs like this encouraging families to speak up, because parents often know when something isn’t quite right.
As a parent of a child with cystic fibrosis, I’ve learned to trust my gut when something doesn’t feel right. We’ve had a few experiences where we’ve needed to go through different channels to raise concerns or frustrations with the hospital system to make sure our daughter got the care she needed. It’s great to see programs like this encouraging families to speak up, because parents often know when something isn’t quite right.
This is so true from my experience over the years.
No matter how wonderful the medical team is, if you have any doubts speak up as a mother knows her child better than anyone.
Yes and amen to this article ! I agree with always follow your gut, you know your child like no one else does. In fact you are your child’s expert and should never stop advocating for them or speaking up. Sometimes professionals are very good in waving concerns away, all it takes is a human who listens
Even as a healthcare professional, when I took my soon to the ED when I was concerned, I felt awkward about speaking up, worried I was making a big deal out of nothing (even though i would never tjink this about a patient’s family if the roles were reversed). The message in this article is so important. Always stick to your guns. Always speak up and advocate for your kids – they can’t do it for themselves.
And honestly, some medical staff are idiots. I vividly remember the night two doctors huddled over my son’s lung x-rays. I hadn’t been allowed to accompany him to have them taken as I was pregnant. They finally told me solemnly that they were preparing to do emergency surgery as there was something in his lungs – “we don’t know what it is, but it’s definitely man made”. I took one look at the x-rays and asked if they’d taken off the battery packs for his cochlear implants, which were pinned to the back of his shirt, before the x-ray. And of course they hadn’t, and of course that’s what appeared to be in his lungs. Honestly!
I have learned many times to always listen to your gut and speak up when you don’t think something is right. This article was a great read, our kids are our world and if we don’t feel they are getting the right help, and we feel it, we need to speak up.
You should never second guess yourself when it comes to yours or your childs health- or anyones for that matter. Go with your thoughts. It is natural to want to protect a loved one especially when it comes to health situations, and the feeling you get when you think you didnt do enough to advocate or fight for them…it is not a kind or nice way to feel. Many people have ended up being heartbroken and picking up pieces for years because of feeling they didnt do enough.
A very good and informative article. I have read so many stories about mums just knowing when things are not right and demanding second and third opinions until they got the right answer. Sometimes mums just know. It is our job as care takers of our families. Listen to your gut!
Years ago, I spoke up for my 14-year-old daughter, but my concerns weren’t fully listened to. I’ve always wished I had pushed harder. She was sent home without much testing, and two days later, she passed away.
So, if you ever have concerns—no matter how minor—please speak up and keep advocating. Trust your instincts; they are there for a reason.
This is so important for parents to know how to raise it further if they don’t think their child is receiving the medical support they need! I know this article refers to the NSW system but other systems have similar procedures just with different names. I know in QLD it’s called Ryan’s Rule.
It’s so important to follow your gut instincts and express your concerns indeed. I have never hesitated to advocate for my children in various situations and I don’t care what other people think about it. Not all doctors and medical staff appreciate it when you question them, I’ve experienced that it may result in angry indignant responses.
How true this is! While nurses and doctors are the medical professionals doing their job on the daily, we know our children better than anyone and what is ‘normal’ for them. I would always speak up if I had noticed any changes in my child’s health and encourage other parents to do so too. No question is silly!
This really is such an important issue and a good topic to discuss with people, I am often surprised that people are worried about being judged. This is not something I care about; the priority is for the care and health of everyone is my family. Parents know their children and need to work with health professionals for the best outcomes for their children.
This is such an important issue to raise, and no one should ever feel ashamed, nervous or that they are being OTT for advocating for their kids, themselves or loves ones in hospital. In QLD we have Ryan’s Rule. A three step process where your concern will be escalated if they believe the patients condition isn’t improving or is worsening.
I have never been afraid to advocate for my children and partner and extended family and also friends. It is so important to listen and to trust intuition. When people have not listened, I have persevered and kept on with insisting on care and making sure they truly listened and took action.
4:58 pm
Love Emirates!
I was flying without my husband, but I did have our 18 month old in tow, and so I was extremely apprehensive about how the flight would go.
From check-in to the moment the plane touched down, the staff were so welcoming, helpful and accomodating. They did everything they could to make the journey as comfortable as possible, especially on descent when my little one's ears were becoming problematic.
I couldn't be more appreciative of the Emirates team and look forward to flying with them again.
11:21 pm
Yes to Qantas!
9:32 pm
Virgin
12:05 pm
Qantas
I was homebound from Hong Kong to Sydney and there was a major Cyclone that was about to go over the top of us - category 5! We were on standby at the airport to try and get an earlier flight home - they got us on the flight at no extra charge. We boarded the plane to go and unfortunately due to weather had to get back off the plane as the weather had escalated faster than expected. We ended up we had to spend the night sleeping in the airport. They staff were amazing - giving us pillows, blankets, water, food. They checked on us throughout the night. The next morning we were given food and drink vouchers and they kept us fully updated on what was happening and when our departure might occur. We were boarded as soon as possible and left Hong Kong on the first flight out. I can't speak highly enough of their professionalism and care in a scary situation. I will always choose them as first choice when flying.
2:40 am
Scoot
9:00 pm
Virgin Australia
9:36 am
Scoot airlines
8:18 pm
Qantas Airlines
Then assisted off at the other end. The hosts/hostesses were fantastic and nothing was to much trouble, this appeared to be the case for everyone on the plane. When arriving in Adelaide there was a bit of a mix up with my wheelchair, but nothing was to much trouble and the staff even once sorted assisted us to our taxi. Would definitely fly Qantas again.
5:33 am
Celebrity Chef
8:23 pm
Singapore Airlines and Allergies
5:44 pm
Qantas
1:18 pm
Virgin Australia
But none-the-less, they were the cheapest airline carrier to America..
We were thoroughly impressed with their service and everything they had to offer to us (My boyfriend and I). We came back to Aus raving about them!
And now, with the change of Virgin to serve food and the like, we only fly with them Nationally! The smaller planes are not as delightful as they are the older planes without a TV - But in saying that we only have had this plane once on the Red-Eye when all we did was sleep! So I guess a win-win!
Would definitely recommend nationally or internationally! They are a great carrier with lovely, helpful staff!!
1:49 pm
Only positive with Jetstar....the hostesses
10:27 pm
Another perfect journey
11:21 pm
Yes to Qantas!
5:18 pm
Quantas
10:06 pm
Emirates Airlines - fantastic!
The staff were all very friendly, with some offering to take my son for a cuddle so we could have a break. The little one refused of course!
Kids meals were served first, with plenty of snacks that could be saved for later.
They also provided a baby amenities kit - wipes, bib, disposable change mat, baby lotion.
The kids toys were also great - a snuggly blanket in its own plushy character carry case and activity sets.
The staff also have a Polaroid camera to take photos during the flight.
Overall a great experience with the staff and inclusions for kids. Would recommend and would fly with Emirates again!
8:30 pm
Emirates. A different experience
11:14 pm
Qantas is still the best
8:11 pm
Virgin. You'd think it was their first flight
2:59 pm
QANTAS
11:31 am
Hawaiian Airlines
10:56 am
tiger value for money virgin is also great
When flying with Virgin i also have have a great time. Seats are abit roomier but for short distances this does not phase our family. On cheaper tickets no food but once again does not worry us as i will be bring a snack for a 2 - 3 hr flight. Staff are helpful and flight went roughly on time. I will continue to fly both airlines. I get emails so keep up to date and plan early not to miss out on great deals around Australia and overseas. Look at my emails for a bargain.
10:47 am
Flying a lot, leg room please!
11:58 pm
Emirates
10:01 am
Thai Airways
9:47 am
Virgin Australia On Time Performance
7:54 pm
LAN airlines
8:10 pm
Aussie accent you can bottle
7:58 pm
Qantas still has it
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