MTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!

Twenty Minute Travel News has now joined the MtM Podcast feed! You can catch this show each week right here in addition to the regular MtM Travel podcast or watch both shows on Youtube! 

Episode Description

This week there are a couple of new Amex "no lifetime language" offers floating around including a huge 200K Business Gold version. We go over the details and explain exactly how these offers work and why you probably want to take advantage of them. We also explain Amex's application rules, the popup and your best overall strategy for dealing with the bank.   In other news an ongoing fraud has been going on with Amex Business Gold cards and small charges. What should you do if you fall victim? We also discuss Etihad's 10 new routes, the new British Airways first class seat, sketchy travel hacks, United's $16 million training center, the return of Target's most popular deal and where you can find the North America Holiday Train.   Episode Guide

• 0:00 Sketchy travel hacks
• 0:51 United’s new $16 million training facility
• 2:18 Etihad announces 10 new routes including big US city
• 3:41 Longer trip for flight experience vs. shorter flight
• 4:36 British Airways unveils new first class seat
• 5:20 Explaining Amex “no lifetime language” offers
• 7:45 Amex Business Gold 200K targeted offer
• 8:39 Blue Business Plus 75K targeted offers - 0% APR?
• 9:57 Target 10% off gift card deal returns for 2024
• 11:55 Target Circle program value and shutdowns
• 13:16 Amex Business Gold fraudulent charges - What you need to know
• 16:16 Cool “S” - North America Holiday Train

Links

• Sketchy hacks - https://www.reddit.com/r/TravelHacks/comments/1g3rr4y/sketchiest_travel_tips_that_you_know/
• United training - https://apigateway.agilitypr.com/distributions/history/b2fc48a4-0b2b-4f50-b08d-8a5b173666ca?recipientId=f59514db-7cc4-4966-8178-a569b271d584
• Etihad 10 new routes - https://milestomemories.com/etihad-adds-direct-route-to-atlanta/
• BA First Class seat - https://milestomemories.com/british-airways-unveils-brand-new-first-class-seat/
• 200K Amex NLL - https://milestomemories.com/200k-amex-business-gold-offer/
• Blue Business Plus NLL - https://travel-on-points.com/targeted-75k-blue-business-plus-cash-offer/
• Amex fraud problems - https://travel-on-points.com/amex-business-gold-facebook-advertising-fraud/
• Target 10% - https://travel-on-points.com/10-off-target-gift-cards/
• North America Holiday Train - https://www.cpkcr.com/en/community/HolidayTrain

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam

Episode Description

In this conversation, Shawn and Mark discuss their experiences with credit card rewards, particularly focusing on Chase's loyalty program and the gifts received for long-term cardholding. They delve into the evolution of credit card rewards, the importance of social engineering in banking, and a recent controversial case involving Citibank's account closure of a high-profile customer. The discussion also touches on the allure and perks of the American Express black card, highlighting the differences in customer service and experience for high-spending clients.

The two also discuss more on Shawn's redemption decision to Hawaii, Mark's small town weekend trip, Chicago Christmas markets and how Black Friday went.

Episode Guide

• 0:00 Chase cardholder gifts & debating their rules & product changes over the years
• 10:51 Citibank shuts down customer, takes 29 million ThankYou points
• 14:55 The best card for high net worth/big spenders?
• 19:21 Squeezing in multiple Hawaiian islands to a trip?
• 24:00 Bank travel portals & behind their redemption rates
• 27:28 Universal Orlando free Express pass - Mark's recent booking experience with FHR
• 30:38 Visiting the Chicago Christmas markets

Subscribe to MTM Travel & 20 Minute Travel in the same feed!

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Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Melio Offer Terms: This is a business to business payment platform - no personal bills / payments. The offer is for new accounts only. If you sign up using the 20 Minute Travel link new members will get $200 cash back after making a $2000+ in payments via Melio pay. Gal from Melio will reach out to finalize the details of your payment. That is $60 in processing fees for a $200 bonus! After signing up and making your first payment with a vendor you will want to upload your bank info to your Melio account. Do it as the receiving method so you have a checking account set up to receive payments. You will then receive an email from (Gal) Melio saying you are eligible for the $200 bonus and it will tell you to set up your receiving method, or you can share your bank information if you prefer that.

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

 

Twenty Minute Travel News has now joined the MtM Podcast feed! You can catch this show each week right here in addition to the regular MtM Travel podcast or watch both shows on Youtube! 

Episode Description

This week many reports were coming from Chase applicants about a tightening when it comes to credit card reconsideration. We discuss exactly what is happening, what you should do and why a tried and true strategy is worth pursuing in getting that big Chase card approval!   In other news Hilton has another big property score, this time adding a popular hotel to their Curio collection. We also discuss big new offers for Alaska and Avianca, strange Cardless rules, Allegiant's biggest expansion ever, easy timeshare points & why riding mountain/alpine coasters is some really cool "s".   Episode Guide

• 0:00 The epic eating problem every traveler faces
• 0:38 Evermore Resort joining Hilton as Curio
• 2:28 Allegiant’s biggest expansion ever - 44 new routes
• 4:33 New Alaska Airlines 75K mile public offer
• 5:43 Avianca LifeMiles Elite 120K welcome offer
• 6:33 The quirky thing about signing up for a Cardless card
• 8:35 Chase cracking down on reconsideration
• 10:15 The evolution of Chase reconsideration & why they may be tightening
• 11:58 Easy 75K Hilton timeshare offer
• 13:38 How to find your unclaimed property
• 15:33 Bilt’s new home purchasing tool - Earn big points
• 17:36 The changing landscape of realtor fees & what to look for
• 18:47 Alpine/Mountain coasters around the world

Links

• Evermore Hilton - https://travel-on-points.com/evermore-orlando-resort-joining-hilton/
• Allegiant expansion - https://milestomemories.com/major-expansion-for-allegiant/
• Alaska 75K - https://secure.bankofamerica.com/apply-credit-cards/public/instant-credit/#/single-page/
• Avianca Elite 120K - https://www.lifemiles.com/discover/landing-page/avianca-lifemiles-creditcard-promo
• Chase reconsideration woes - https://travel-on-points.com/chase-denying-reconsideration/
• Hilton timeshare - https://milestomemories.com/new-hilton-timeshare-offer-5/
• Unclaimed property - https://travel-on-points.com/how-to-claim-unclaimed-property/
• Bilt Home - https://travel-on-points.com/earn-bilt-points-when-purchasing-a-home/
• Alpine coasters - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1-r4KVBPIA
•  https://x.com/TheFigen_/status/1836052840562708593

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam

Episode Description

In this conversation, Shawn and Mark delve into the intricacies of flying with Southwest Airlines, discussing the challenges of check-in and boarding processes. In the wake of a troubling story of a government going after a blogger, they also share personal anecdotes about their experiences with airline reviews, the risks of criticizing travel services, and the complexities of customer service interactions.   Also discussed is a miles conundrum Shawn is running into with his trip to Hawaii in January. The age old question of whether to use the points you have or transfer other ones. A simple answer but a question nonetheless. Finally the show finishes with a breakdown of the best budget hotel breakfasts and why there is one clear winner.   Best Limited Service Breakfast video - https://youtu.be/f870CDZw8mo?si=gbWWWsYjXvthT7F8

Subscribe to MTM Travel & 20 Minute Travel in the same feed!

• Youtube
• Podcast

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Melio Offer Terms: This is a business to business payment platform - no personal bills / payments. The offer is for new accounts only. If you sign up using the 20 Minute Travel link new members will get $200 cash back after making a $2000+ in payments via Melio pay. Gal from Melio will reach out to finalize the details of your payment. That is $60 in processing fees for a $200 bonus! After signing up and making your first payment with a vendor you will want to upload your bank info to your Melio account. Do it as the receiving method so you have a checking account set up to receive payments. You will then receive an email from (Gal) Melio saying you are eligible for the $200 bonus and it will tell you to set up your receiving method, or you can share your bank information if you prefer that.

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

 

Twenty Minute Travel News has now joined the MtM Podcast feed! You can catch this show each week right here in addition to the regular MtM Travel podcast or watch both shows on Youtube! 

Episode Description

This week Spirit Airlines finally filed for bankruptcy following several failed merger attempts and sales. While the airline plans to stay in business, should you avoid them until the bankruptcy is settled? What does this mean for tickets, miles, etc. and if we lose Spirit what will the overall effect be on the airline industry?   In other news several new end of year card offers have dropped including increased offers for United cards and some outside the box thinking with Southwest's offers. We also discuss the Capital One Spark $750 welcome offer, how to score a 750 free and easy Bonvoy points, the craziness of blob jumping, when all of the new Chase Sapphire lounges are opening and how those gate agents trick you.   Episode Guide

• 0:00 When the gate agent lies to you
• 1:08 Spirit Airlines files bankruptcy
• 2:50 Should you avoid flying Spirit because of the bankruptcy
• 4:26 Capital One Spark Cash $750 welcome offer
• 6:05 New Southwest card offers - Cash back?
• 7:55 How banks are thinking outside of the box with their welcome offers
• 10:04 United’s increased end of year welcome offers
• 11:30 The one perk that might make you want to have a United credit card
• 12:17 4 new Hyatt promos - Anything good?
• 14:03 Get 750 Marriott Bonvoy points by linking Uber
• 15:01 More Hawaiian/Alaska points transfer woes
• 16:22 Chase Sapphire Lounge opening dates for many cities announced
• 18:57 Blob jumping - Fun travel activity?

Links

• Empty bins - https://x.com/jonathankennell/status/1857385339951722843
• Spirit bankruptcy - https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2024/11/18/spirit-airlines-files-bankruptcy-protection.html
• Hyatt promos - https://travel-on-points.com/hyatt-holiday-promotions/
• Marriott Uber - https://milestomemories.com/link-marriott-and-uber-accounts/
• Alaska woes - https://travel-on-points.com/hawaiian-airlines-blocking-membership-rewards-transfers/
• Sapphire expansion - https://milestomemories.com/chase-sapphire-lounge-by-the-club-adds-more-locations/
• Blob jumping - https://www.facebook.com/watch/?mibextid=UalRPS&v=1281980536516434&rdid=FCQtpSE1wjlLwqXs

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam

Episode Description

In this conversation, Mark and Shawn discuss the potential bankruptcy of Spirit Airlines and the implications for low-cost carriers in the U.S. They explore the challenges faced by these airlines, including management issues and competition. The discussion then shifts to Mark's frustrating experience with American Airlines regarding a flight booking, highlighting the inefficiencies in customer service.   Other topics discussed include: the benefits of car leasing and a huge Chase bank error in Shawn's favor, how Mark has rolled into 5 years of Hilton Diamond status, why you should wait on Founderscard for Caesars Diamond status and how you can make some easy money with our exclusive Melio partner offer.

Subscribe to MTM Travel & 20 Minute Travel in the same feed!

• Youtube
• Podcast

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Melio Offer Terms: This is a business to business payment platform - no personal bills / payments. The offer is for new accounts only. If you sign up using the 20 Minute Travel link new members will get $200 cash back after making a $2000+ in payments via Melio pay. Gal from Melio will reach out to finalize the details of your payment. That is $60 in processing fees for a $200 bonus! After signing up and making your first payment with a vendor you will want to upload your bank info to your Melio account. Do it as the receiving method so you have a checking account set up to receive payments. You will then receive an email from (Gal) Melio saying you are eligible for the $200 bonus and it will tell you to set up your receiving method, or you can share your bank information if you prefer that.

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

 

Twenty Minute Travel News has now joined the MtM Podcast feed! You can catch this show each week right here in addition to the regular MtM Travel podcast or watch both shows on Youtube! 

Episode Description

This week a number of stories broke including the death of Caesars Diamond status via the Wyndham Business Earner card. What does this change mean and what are your alternatives to gaining Caesars Diamond status now that the Wyndham option is gone.   We also discuss AA's strict new rules for removing passengers and why they could mean a better overall experience. Other topics discussed include: Alaska's huge 100K offer, Sapphire Preferred 60K + $300 ending, Hyatt's AI expansion, Marriott's soft landing, how Choice is improving and why Hertz called the police on yet another customer.   Episode Guide

• 0:00 Hertz calls the police on a customer…again
• 0:44 Hyatt’s insane all-inclusive expansion continues
• 2:13 Is there any value with Hyatt’s all-inclusive options?
• 3:35 AA limiting flight attendant power to remove passengers
• 6:53 Sapphire Preferred 60K + $300 offer ending soon
• 7:42 Alaska’s unprecedented 100K targeted card offers
• 9:40 Should you cancel that card? Why downgrading is a powerful strategy
• 12:17 Marriott Bonvoy soft landing returns
• 14:40 Choice Hotels makes enhancements including increased booking window
• 17:08 Caesars Diamond via Wyndham Business Earner is dead
• 19:35 Cool “S” - The largest indoor waterpark/rainforest in the world

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

Episode Description

In this conversation, Shawn & Mark are joined by Joe Cheung to discuss their recent trips to Orlando, focusing on their recent experiences at various hotels, particularly the Conrad Orlando, Universal's Royal Pacific and the Hyatt Regency at the airport. They share travel tips, flight stories, and insights into the amenities and services offered at these properties. The conversation highlights the unique features of the Conrad, including its insane lagoon pool and dining options, while also touching on the value of using hotel points for stays. Is it enjoyable visiting Orlando without visiting theme parks?   We also dive into Shawn's recent stay at the Royal Pacific which was completely paid for with Delta points. What are the advantages of staying at Universal's Royal Pacific Hotel, particularly the Express Pass benefits, and how does the overall experience compare to Disney. The discussion concludes with alternative attractions in Orlando, such as Fun Spot and what is coming like Universal's 3rd park Epic Universe.   Conrad Orlando tour from Jackson Jetsetting - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1j2cVQHLmg Watch Joe on Disney Deciphered - https://www.youtube.com/@disneydeciphered

Subscribe to MTM Travel & 20 Minute Travel in the same feed!

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Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

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Episode Description

In this conversation, Shawn and Mark discuss various aspects of travel, including airline experiences, travel insurance, airport layouts, and the dynamics of the miles and points hobby. Shawn recently went to SLC for the day and he shares his experiences doing a same day turn on Frontier and walking the new SLC terminal building. Mark previews his Orlando trip and the two discuss travel insurance in the wake of possible changes to Chase's card protections.   Finally the two are joined by David Ocamb from the Ocamb Group to go over some interesting data collected about the miles & points hobby. We dive into who you are, what makes you tick and why people shouldn't get caught in FOMO. Fascinating data that you don't want to miss!

Subscribe to MTM Travel & 20 Minute Travel in the same feed!

• Youtube
• Podcast

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (MI/NJ/PA/WV). 21+. Physically present in MI/NJ/PA/WV only. Void in ONT. Eligibility restrictions apply. 1 per new customer. Min. $5 deposit req. Max. $50 issued in Casino Credits for select games that are non-withdrawable and expire in 7 days (168 hours). Terms: goldennuggetcasino.com/welcome. Ends 12/1/24 at 11:59PM ET. Sponsored by GNOG.

Episode Description

In this conversation, Shawn and Mark discuss various aspects of travel, including airline experiences, travel insurance, airport layouts, and the dynamics of the miles and points hobby. Shawn recently went to SLC for the day and he shares his experiences doing a same day turn on Frontier and walking the new SLC terminal building. Mark previews his Orlando trip and the two discuss travel insurance in the wake of possible changes to Chase's card protections.   Finally the two are joined by David Ocamb from the Ocamb Group to go over some interesting data collected about the miles & points hobby. We dive into who you are, what makes you tick and why people shouldn't get caught in FOMO. Fascinating data that you don't want to miss!

Subscribe to MTM Travel & 20 Minute Travel in the same feed!

• Youtube
• Podcast

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected]. 

You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Music: Rewind by Jay Someday | https://soundcloud.com/jaysomeday Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License