From service to friendship
Second Prize winner
MANILA, Philippines - When my daughter called to inform us that she and her husband were expecting their first child, I could not describe the joy I felt in knowing that I was soon to be a grandmother! This also came with an invitation for me to fly to Paris, France to help ease her through the first few months of being a new mom. While I accepted without a moment’s hesitation, my excitement was tainted with apprehension since I had to fly halfway around the world to be with my daughter. After all, even at 59 years old, I had never been outside the Philippines.
In preparation for my flight, I went to a reputable travel agency where the unsuspecting agent got the brunt of my apprehension about flying to Paris. Fully aware of my concerns, health issues included, and knowing that I would be flying alone, she calmly booked me on Singapore Airlines. She said that I would no doubt have a very pleasant flying experience.
On January 11, 2010, I saw a man holding a sign with my name on it as I approached the Singapore Airlines check-in counter. I was thoughtfully signed up for “wheelchair assistance” and the young man gallantly whisked me away. Before I knew it, I was already inside the plane! I didn’t even have to carry my luggage since it was all checked in. The whole flight was indeed pleasant: surreal, even. What I remember most, though, was the personalized attention that made me feel that I was assigned my very own flight attendant. The lady consistently checked on me and made sure that I was feeling all right. She also helped me figure out how to navigate the entertainment screen right in front of me. Surprisingly, she even asked me what brought me to Paris and we exchanged stories beyond the usual pleasantries. In fact, she even remembered to congratulate me on becoming a grandmother on my way out of the plane.
Truly, Singapore Airlines made my first experience pleasant and memorable. Not only because of their excellent service, but because they made me feel like I hade a friend on board even if I was just traveling alone. Thanks to my friendly flight attendant, I arrived in Paris relaxed, happy and ready to be a grandmother!
