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 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]. 

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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.

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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 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]. 

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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

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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!

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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

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

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 rumors have been swirling about a potential new premium card offering from Chase. Will a business version of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card be coming and what can we expect from the welcome offer, annual fee and perks? Will this be a popular card for the market?   In other news Frontier & Spirit are talking merger again. It's probably the best move for both airlines. We also discuss: AA's new cheater tech, end of Ink's 90K offer, a Delta employee allegedly stealing and selling merch, Citi's interesting new hotel transfer partner and the most insane hotel pool in the United States.   Episode Guide

• 0:00 AA’s cool new “cheater” technology
• 1:20 Delta employee allegedly steals & sells merch
• 3:10 Frontier & Spirit trying to merge again
• 5:30 Hyatt taking over a Margaritaville
• 7:21 Chase Ink Unlimited 90K end is near
• 8:18 Chase Sapphire Reserve business rumor
• 11:40 Diving into Citi’s new ThankYou partner Preferred Hotels
• 14:10 How good are Preferred Hotels properties
• 15:18 Cool S - Most insane pool in the United States?

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 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!   Episode Guide  

• 0:00 The “scam” of airline seat fees and assignments
• 3:10 Previewing Mark’s Orlando trip
• 5:01 One day trip to Salt Lake City - Frontier same day turn
• 9:20 Why the new Salt Lake City airport terminal kind of sucks
• 13:30 Changes to Chase card insurance protections?
• 16:40 Travel insurance strategies & “self insurance”
• 24:34 Diving into the miles & points hobby demographics data
• 28:00 Some of our biggest surprises from the survey data
• 36:40 How much time are people spending & other key takeaways

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

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 the Alaska/Hawaiian merger fallout moves forward as the company is trying to combine loyalty programs. Until that happens there may be an opportunity to double dip with credit cards, but is it a good play and which Hawaiian Airlines cards should you consider before they go away forever?   In other news Amex is back with 20K Pay Over Time offers. These can be the easiest points you'll ever earn if you are targeted. We also discuss: Spark Cash $750, the new United Mile Play offers, all of the many transfer bonuses right now, a hack to score an empty middle seat and where you can play Mario Kart in real life.   Episode Guide

• 0:00 Viral hack for ensuring an empty middle seat
• 0:47 Ultimate travel troll - Once in a lifetime experiencial travel
• 2:03 Mark’s incredible Choice “experience” redemption
• 4:00 Don’t overlook housesitting - Incredible way to save on travel & pet sitting
• 7:35 Hawaiian Airlines credit card play before it is too late
• 9:56 Cap One Spark Cash $750 welcome offer with waived annual fee
• 11:11 Amex Pay Over Time 20K Offers - Easiest points ever!
• 12:45 United Mile Play offers - Huge potential depending on your offer
• 14:30 Most credit card transfer bonuses ever?
• 17:53 BattleKarts some really cool “s” to seek out on your next trip

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, Mark discusses his recent trip to Salem, Massachusetts, focusing on the Halloween experience and the historical significance of the area. He shares insights about the attractions, food, and the overall vibe of Salem during the Halloween season. The conversation then shifts to Alaska Airlines, highlighting recent changes in their loyalty program, including the ability to earn qualifying miles through award flights and shopping. Other topics discussed include: new flight routes, the evolution of MTM Travel and our different shows, parenting lessons learned from buying a phone for Mark's son, the rise of content creation in the digital age, and the unique offerings of Disney's crazy new cruise ship.   Episode Guide  

• 0:00 Introduction & visiting Salem, MA for Halloween - Food, fun and what to do
• 11:29 Digging into Alaska’s new milestones and other huge changes
• 14:35 Is airline status a scam?
• 21:40 The crazy things we say in the miles & points hobby
• 24:10 Behind the show housekeeping & important life lessons
• 37:19 Disney’s insane new cruise ship - Theme park at sea?

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