wondering about what the cheapest airfare to portugal from seattle might be? does it make sense to fly to UK and then get budget airline to portugal? have been web searching but seems endless. if anyone has any ideas would appreciate it. also going sept 13 to oct 4 and want to see as much as we can. will the weather be decent? thanks.

It might not be London that's the cheapest point to split a two-ticket itinerary, although it sometimes is. From Seattle, German cities on United are often the cheapest bet. Amsterdam on Northwest (or other airlines) is often good too. Continental to CGN, has been good for us a couple times. I guess the short answer is to look widely.

Check www.whichbudget.com to get an idea of the range of budget airlines within Europe.

Flying and returning on Saturday will tend to make your trip more expensive, so consider trying other days too.

With all that said and done, I see $959 on US Airways for SEA-LIS for your exact dates, and I think this is actually a pretty good fare.

United is showing $1011.60 sea-lis for your dates with two stops.

thanks for the replys. this gives me a few specifics to look for. as always, your expertise is appreciated!

Never book separate airfare tickets if you can help it. If there is a delay, or other problems along the way, you're on your own.

Currently the least expensive airfare from Seattle to Lisbon, on your dates, is $959 on US Airways (a third-world airline) with one-stop through Philadelphia.