I have to say I always flew from Gatwick before for my short haul trips but since Southend has opened up I have to say it is the best airport experience I have ever had, this is in comparison to MCO, LGW, LHR, DUS, CDG, JER, LHR, SIN, SYD, BNE.
Southend is very oragnised, effective, safe, clean, not over priced, pleasant, on time performance is excellent, and from the moment you land at the airport you are out with baggage within 25 minutes of being on the tarmac (the moment the wheels touch down). Overall I would definitely select Southend over any other airport now if I had the choice.
Maybe I am slightly biased as I only live 20 minutes from Southend but it means I don't have none of the lengthy waiting times on departure or arrival and no long journey to return home, and best of all hassle free.