In this episode, Mike talks to Award Travel 101 moderator Maria Fung who discusses various travel rewards topics and updates. They feature Ira's mistake of using the wrong credit card, despite labeling them. 

News includes Hawaiian/Alaska mileage transfers, changes at Southwest (such as new seats and legroom options), and Bilt's October Rent Day promotion. 

Mike and Maria also share recent trip updates, including Mike’s upcoming flights and Maria’s travels to Los Cabos, Bangkok, and Hong Kong. 

The highlight feature is an interview with Maria, focusing on her introduction to travel rewards, her favorite redemption (Venice), and her tips for booking. Maria has a passion for family travel but also enjoys taking solo trips. Maria's tip of the week encourages travelers to stay open to all options. 

Links to topics discussed:

• Hawaiian/ Alaska 1:1 Transfer is Live. As of airtime you can still also transfer from Amex Membership Rewards to Hawaiian Airlines (then on to Alaska)
• Southwest Airlines Changes
  • No more open seating and adding extra legroom seats
  • Keeping free checked bags (still see it as more revenue)
  • Partnership with Icelandair
  • Elite Benefits
    • A-List Preferred can select extra-legroom seats at time of booking
    • A-List can select extra legroom 48-hours before
  • Bilt October Rent Day (passed)
    • • Hilton Gold, Diamond status challenge 14 nights
      • Virgin Cruises benefits
  • Wells Fargo Rewards adds Virgin as a Seventh Transfer Partner 

Where to Find Us

1. The Award Travel 101 Facebook Community.
2. To book time with our team, check out Award Travel 1-on-1.
3. You can also email us at [email protected]
4. Buy your Award Travel 101 Merch here
5. Reserve tickets to our Spring 2026 Meetup in Phoenix now. award.travel/phx2026

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