This routing might seem a little odd at first sight. Star Alliance member Singapore Airlines is offering discounted tickets for flights from Manchester to Houston. The 5-star airline has been serving this so-called 5th freedom route for a couple of years now. Currently, you can purchase tickets for the non-stop connection at prices starting around €455 (~£390).
The price is very reasonable. But this isn’t the only advantage here. In contrast to other airlines, that do not include any checked luggage in the cheapest fares, Singapore Airlines will allow you to bring up to 2 bags – for free (each limited to 23 kg).
Singapore Airlines operates a brand-new Airbus A350 all the way from the UK to Texas. So, you’ll be able to enjoy the outstanding onboard service as well as an up-to-date cabin on your flight.
If you’re planning on getting KrisFlyer Gold tier via the American Express Platinum status match, the two segments will, of course, count towards your goal here.
Search & Book
According to the fare rules, there is no official expiration date for this deal. The offer is valid for trips commencing before June 21st or after August 17th, 2020. The minimum stay requirements are for five days, and you could spend up to 6 months in the USA if your immigration status allows it.
The easiest way to find cheap connections is by using Google Flights (instructions). You can search for the discounted flights and then either book directly through the Singapore Airlines website or you could compare prices that OTAs offer via our Travel-Dealz flight search.
Mileage
All tickets will be issued in booking class V. Unfortunately, this won’t get you any miles at all on many Star Alliance programs. But there are a few that will still earn you a few miles:
- 4,704 Points on SAS EuroBonus
- 4,704 Miles on Singapore KrisFlyer
- 2,352 Award Miles + 120 Points on Miles&More
Information & Tips for USA
The USA offers many sights, natural wonders and cultural significance. Thanks to numerous airlines offering flights across the Atlantic, it is always pretty inexpensive to get there. Alternatively, you can also cross the Atlantic by boat.
Immigration, ESTA & Visa Requirements
The USA has one of the strictest entry regulations in the world. Most EU citizens, among others, are lucky to be able to participate in the so-called Visa Waiver Program. If you get an electronic entry permit (ESTA) for approximately €20, you don’t need a visa for entry.
The Best Time to Visit
Due to its sheer size, the perfect time to visit the USA varies greatly from region to region. In winter, Florida is very popular due to the mild temperatures. In the summer the West and East Coasts are flooded by tourists which drives up the prices for hotels and flights and during the Indian Summer in late autumn New England is a very popular destination. The hurricane season between July and September can be dangerous in the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. Florida and the southern states are regularly struck by these tropical storms. Blizzards occur from the East Coast to the Midwest during the winter months and regularly put air traffic and public life on hold.
Currency
The US dollar is widely used throughout the world and accepted as a currency in most tourist hotspots worldwide. That being said, carrying cash isn’t necessary in the US, all you need is a credit card! These are very common in the USA and are accepted pretty much everywhere without any issues. If you already have a credit card in your wallet, you should make sure that it does not charge a foreign currency fee if possible. Carrying a few dollars in cash doesn’t hurt though. You might need cash e.g. for the bus ticket if you want to buy it directly from the driver. Most of the time you even have to give exact change.
Finding the Best eSIM Plan
We’ve compared various eSIM providers, such as Knowroaming and Ubigi. To see which plan is best for your travel needs, and which network offers the best coverage, feel free to read our detailed guide:
The Best eSIM Plans for the USA 🇺🇸 Compared
→ All Dealz for USA
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