Booking Multicity Flights: OneWorld, Star Alliance, or Alternative Options?

When it comes to booking multicity flights, particularly for a route like Vancouver -> Japan (Osaka & Tokyo) -> Hong Kong -> Philippines (Manila) -> Vancouver, there are various options to consider. Two of the most popular airline alliances, OneWorld and Star Alliance, can be great choices, but there are also alternative ways to book your flights.

OneWorld Alliance

The OneWorld alliance includes airlines like American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, and Qantas. If you choose to book with OneWorld, you'll have the advantage of using a single alliance for your entire journey, which can simplify the booking process and potentially offer more seamless connections.

However, it's important to note that not all OneWorld airlines fly to every destination you need, so you may need to mix and match different airlines within the alliance.

Star Alliance

The Star Alliance includes airlines like Air Canada, ANA (All Nippon Airways), Asiana Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and United Airlines. Like OneWorld, Star Alliance can provide a single platform for booking your multicity flights, potentially making connections smoother.

Again, you'll need to carefully check the routes and schedules of the different Star Alliance airlines to ensure you can find a suitable itinerary that covers all your desired destinations.

Alternative Options

While airline alliances can be convenient, they may not always offer the best prices or most direct routes. Consider exploring alternative options, such as booking separate one-way tickets with different airlines or using online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Travelocity, or Kayak.

OTAs can often find creative routings and combinations of airlines that may not be available when booking directly with a single airline or alliance. However, be mindful that this approach may require more effort in coordinating connections and dealing with potential issues like delayed or missed flights.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best option for booking your Vancouver -> Japan (Osaka & Tokyo) -> Hong Kong -> Philippines (Manila) -> Vancouver flights in April/May 2012 will depend on your specific preferences and priorities. Consider factors like cost, convenience, routing, and potential layover times.

If you prefer the simplicity of a single alliance, OneWorld or Star Alliance could be good choices, but be prepared to potentially mix and match different airlines within the alliance. Alternatively, exploring alternative options like OTAs may yield better deals or more direct routings, but at the cost of potentially more complex itineraries.

Whichever route you choose, be sure to thoroughly research and compare your options to find the best fit for your travel needs and budget.