Redeeming Capital One miles for maximum value takes some strategy.TPG valuations estimate Capital One miles to be worth an average of 1.85 cents each in travel when you transfer them to airline and hotel partners such as British Airways, Turkish Airlines and Wyndham. But depending on what you book, it’s possible to get even more value.For example, the no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne Rewards … [Read more...]
Tips for getting a Global Entry appointment when nothing is available
Global Entry, which gives preapproved, low-risk travelers expedited clearance upon arrival in the U.S. from abroad, is among the five expedited security programs the U.S. government offers.Like other Trusted Traveler programs, Global Entry requires new users to submit an online application, followed by an in-person interview. The problem some run into is that getting a coveted Global Entry … [Read more...]
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card review: A budget-friendly option
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card overviewThe no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card offers the same great redemption options as its sister cards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card — but with a lower rewards rate and fewer perks. The miles earned on the card can be transferred to Capital One’s 15-plus airline … [Read more...]
Fairmont and Raffles hotel rates exploded last year — what that means for summer travel
Last year was a great time to own a luxury hotel under one of Accor’s top-tier brands like Raffles, Fairmont or Sofitel.Pricing was way up in the Middle East, Africa and the Americas. Don’t expect rates to come down this summer.That sound of crying you hear is your wallet bemoaning upcoming summer hotel reservations.“Price is holding in terms of rate per room, certainly for us in hospitality,” … [Read more...]
The best Disney World hotels for your next magical stay
When Walt Disney World first opened more than 50 years ago, there were only a couple of hotel options to pick from.Today, there are now four theme parks, two water parks and more than two dozen on-site resort properties welcoming visitors — and that doesn't factor in the hundreds of other lodging options in the Orlando area. Some of those off-property resorts offer compelling Disney perks and … [Read more...]
1st look: Inside Delta’s stunning new Sky Club in Kansas City
Would you believe that Kansas City is now home to a Delta Sky Club that’s nicer than any lounge that the airline offers at its mega-hub in Atlanta?Well, with the upcoming opening of the brand-new Sky Club in Kansas City on Tuesday, Feb. 28, that’ll become a reality.As part of the terminal transformation underway at the Kansas City International Airport (MCI), Delta is adding one of its swanky … [Read more...]
3 things to do to boost your chances of getting an automatic credit limit increase
Using your credit card responsibly can have many positive impacts. One is that your credit line may automatically increase.In just six months, my credit limit increased twice without any requests. That’s because I made on-time payments for over a year, always paid more than the minimum payment and had an income increase.Even though a credit line increase cannot be guaranteed, here are some steps … [Read more...]
Deal alert: Save big on Royal Caribbean cruise ship packages with this new sale
Get your credit cards ready, Royal Caribbean fans: It's time to pre-purchase packages for dining, beverages, Wi-Fi and more for your next cruise.The world's largest cruise line has launched another one of its periodic sales on pre-purchased cruise packages, with savings of up to 50% for some items. You must act fast to take advantage of it, though. These short-term Royal Caribbean deals only will … [Read more...]
The best hotels in Puerto Rico — find your stay on the Island of Enchantment
Known as the Island of Enchantment, Puerto Rico truly lives up to its moniker. The island ranks as one of the most affordable Caribbean islands to visit.Ways to explore Puerto Rico are almost limitless, so check out our Puerto Rico travel guide for inspiration. Stroll among the historical sights of Old San Juan, and taste the (literal) spirit of Puerto Rico at one of its many rum … [Read more...]
Avelo adds 3 new cities to its route map, but cuts 2 others
Avelo Airlines’ presence continues to grow.The budget airline that launched in 2021 will add three destinations to its network: Charlottesville, Virginia; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Brownsville, Texas.Avelo plans to service flights from its base at Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) to Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) — the first … [Read more...]
Hilton Honors Amex Business card review: Elite perks on a budget
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.Hilton Honors American Express Business Card overviewThe Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is one of the most valuable hotel business cards on the market. With mid-tier Hilton Gold elite status, it provides useful premium benefits at just a $95 annual fee (see rates and fees). If Hilton is your … [Read more...]
Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve: Which card is right for you?
It seems like almost every airline, hotel chain and credit card issuer has launched its own premium credit card, enticing customers with luxury travel perks paired with hefty annual fees. Many of these cards offer solid value, especially if you’re loyal to the underlying brand.There are two long-standing titans of the premium card market. Of course, I’m talking about The Platinum Card® from … [Read more...]
What is Frontier elite status worth in 2023?
Frontier Airlines is a low-cost carrier that serves the U.S., Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. You might be surprised at the high value we’ve put on Frontier elite status, but that’s because it’s been sort of falsely inflated. Here’s why.Frontier is one of those airlines that charges for just about everything — and it charges a lot. For example, you could pay $60 each way for a carry-on … [Read more...]
Act fast: United is offering one-way US to London flights for just 23,000 miles
You’ll need to act fast if you want to get in on this United Airlines offer. Seriously fast, as in: You need to get moving today to take advantage.Today only, United MileagePlus members can book one-way economy flights to London's Heathrow Airport (LHR) from various U.S. destinations (including 23 nonstop options) for just 23,000 miles (plus taxes and fees).If "23" is your new lucky number, head … [Read more...]
Portugal could end its popular Golden Visa program — here’s how to get it before it’s gone
You can currently become a European Union citizen through real estate investment in a handful of countries with programs commonly referred to as Golden Visas.For example, you can establish residency in Portugal with an investment starting at 280,000 euros (about $296,317). Requirements include spending up to 14 days in the country annually. However, over the five-year investment period, that … [Read more...]
Marriott to discontinue Points Advance at the end of March, will honor existing bookings
Marriott Bonvoy is retiring Points Advance, its customer-friendly booking option that allows you to reserve a room when you don't have enough points. Historically, this has been a great way to lock in rooms at high-demand properties.Marriott's website states, "Due to varying factors such as low demand, we are no longer offering Points Advance Reservations."Over the last couple of years, Marriott … [Read more...]
Qantas unveils new business-class seats for Project Sunrise marathon flights
Qantas has unveiled a new business-class seat as it prepares to launch the world’s longest flights.As part of “Project Sunrise,“ the Australian flag carrier will launch nonstop flights from Sydney Airport (SYD) to both New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and London's Heathrow Airport (LHR) starting in late 2025. These flights will use 12 specially configured Airbus A350-1000 … [Read more...]
4 versions of Avios: When to use Aer Lingus, Qatar Airways, Iberia and British Airways
All members of the International Airlines Group use Avios as their loyalty currency. These airlines include Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Level and Vueling. Qatar Airways, a major shareholder of IAG, also adopted Avios as its loyalty currency in 2022. You can move Avios freely between different airline accounts in any direction.Each form of Avios has its benefits and drawbacks. For example, … [Read more...]
10 things to do when you get the Amex Platinum
The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the best premium rewards cards on the market thanks to its extensive benefits, from lounge access to monthly statement credits. These perks come at a cost, though — the card’s annual fee is $695 (see rates and fees), making it among the most expensive of all consumer cards to carry.If that has you second-guessing whether to get the Amex Platinum … [Read more...]
The best time to go on a cruise
Sorry to disappoint you, but the best time to go on a cruise is not a fixed week or month, as you might hope. The best time to take a cruise varies based on your travel preferences, including where you wish to travel.First, you’ll need to consider the weather at your destination. The best time of year to visit is typically when warm, sunny days are plentiful and rain is scarce.If you’re not a fan … [Read more...]