Photography courtesy Porter.
When we took our trip to New York, Porter had just added the destination to its roster. Since then it’s added, Chicago, Boston, and Myrtle Beach and with the rate this airline is growing, I’m sure we’ll see more in 2010.
As habitants of downtown Toronto, getting to the City Centre is a cinch (although many-a-protester have opposing views on this transportation hub). The cheapest way to get there is by the free shuttle that picks up passengers at the Royal York hotel. The subway at Union Station is literally across the street. When you do arrive to the terminal, passengers have to take a ferry to the airport. Honestly this isn’t as bad as it sounds. It takes like 30 seconds. There is never a wait (more than three minutes) to check yourself in or you can also do the self-serve if you’re flying domestic. Security is civilized, although you will have to place your own luggage on the conveyor belt. Once through, their cozy lounge offers many amenities like:
- Self-service coffee, tea, pop, juice and water, as well as snacks (like shortbread cookies and nuts)
- Free Wi-fi
- Comfortable seating
- Complimentary newspapers
The onboard Porter service is as first class as the lounge is. The seating is 2X2, so you’ll never be in a middle seat. We love the complimentary drinks (including wine and beer), that definitely make a 1-hour flight, that much more relaxing. Their complimentary snacks are also a treat, which was just enough to tide us over until our arrival.
Travellers note, that Porter lands in Newark International Airport, so it’s still a bit of a hike into Manhattan. We took a cab from the airport (about $50) but a bus back. Olympia Trails offers frequent service from downtown Manhattan to Newark every 15 minutes. There are three drop-points: Port Authority Bus Terminal, Bryant Park and Grand Central Station. With a cost of $15 one way, $25 return, it’s very affordable too.
