Shows
MTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Huge Credit Card Settlement, More Negative Chase Rules, Best Free Cruise Score & VentureX 400K!Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel we discuss a proposed credit card fee settlement that could spell huge changes to travel rewards cards, merchant fees and which cards are accepted at certain merchants. This settlement will cut fees and give consumers more choice, but will it actually fix anything and how will it affect airlines, hotels and other businesses that rely...
2025-11-1740 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!China Travel in 2025, Delta/Virgin Ticket "Suspended" & Revisiting the Top Gun Bar!Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn and Mark discuss their recent travels. Shawn goes into his experiences in Shanghai including the Hyatt Centric, why China may be living in the future, the incredible Shanghai skyline, what you need to know about China's payment systems and how visiting the country has changed in the past few years. Mark also discusses a...
2025-09-2936 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Chase's Weird Bonus Offer, Alaska's Hot New Program & Card, Planning A Tough Trip & Cracker Barrel?Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week Alaska finally released the details of their new post-merger loyalty program Atmos Rewards. This new program comes with different ways to earn, milestones and other unique perks, but they also launched a new premium credit card that takes it further. Is Alaska's new loyalty program a good thing, how is this airline growing up and should you grab their new premium credit card offering with its big bonus? In other news Cracker Barrel was in the news this week because o...
2025-08-2539 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Chase's Unexpected Gift, AA/Hyatt Matches Return, Child Bucket Lists & No Good Deed Goes Unpunished!Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week Chase surprised some of their top cardholders with a perk that is unadvertised. Why don't we get more of this kind of stuff? We also discuss: how to check if you are targeted for an AA/Hyatt match, whether those matches are worth pursuing, our childhood bucket lists, the melancholy of travel & time plus Shawn discusses his big passport mistake. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 8:35 No good deed goes unpunished 10:10 EV Rebates going away - Is now the time t...
2025-08-1146 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!More Bad Chase Rules, Grand Hyatt Playa, Don't Overlook Accor & Korean Air Miles Problem!Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week JetBlue released a very interesting promotion for their 25th birthday. In addition to earning up to 350K bonus miles, you can earn 25 years of Mosaic status as well. How many hoops do you have to jump through and does this make economic sense. More importantly do you have the time to invest into this lucrative deal? In other news Chase launched their Sapphire Business card last week along with a ton of new rules. How are the rules being enforced a...
2025-07-0742 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Chase Bank Error, Jetblue's Insane 350K Promo, Beating Jetlag, Hyatt @ JFK & Savannah Bananas!Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week JetBlue released a very interesting promotion for their 25th birthday. In addition to earning up to 350K bonus miles, you can earn 25 years of Mosaic status as well. How many hoops do you have to jump through and does this make economic sense. More importantly do you have the time to invest into this lucrative deal? In other news Chase launched their Sapphire Business card last week along with a ton of new rules. How are the rules being enforced a...
2025-06-3038 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Behind the Epic Universe Hype, Epic for Miles/Points Nerds, Japan Trip Planning & Co-Traveler Zen!Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description This week Universal Epic Universe opened its doors. As the first major theme park to open in the United States since 2001 it is a big deal, but if you aren't a huge theme park nerd should it be on your radar? Joe attended the Epic Universe media preview while Shawn went as a normal guest. You can listen to a more in depth nerdy conversation about the park on this week's Disney Deciphered, but on...
2025-05-2652 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Hilton Devalues Again, Last Minute Business Class for 3, Amex to Alaska Ending Soon & Valuing PointsGet an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description This week Shawn and Mark discuss some interesting items in the news. Amex is now offering perks for downgrading cards, but there is a catch. They also discuss the end of Amex to Alaska via Hawaiian and how Hilton's recent devaluation is shocking in many ways. Are Hilton's points worth anything and why their certs have become even better. In other news Shawn goes over his upcoming trip to Europe including how the itinerary is s...
2025-05-1944 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Insane Chase Sapphire Rumor, Rejecting Airport Lounges, Hyatt Crackdown & No Real ID Meltdown?Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description This week Mark and Shawn discuss a number of interesting topics in the travel realm including the rumored upcoming changes to Chase's premium flagship card Sapphire Reserve. As part of the rumors the fee is going way up and some benefits are being cut, but they are adding a lot. If this rumor proves true will this card be worth pursuing? We also discuss the overall rejection of airport lounges in the travel space. Are w...
2025-05-1240 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Cardless No More, Earn Amex Points With A Chase Card, Dueling Coastal Trips & Hyatt House WoesGet an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description This week Mark and Shawn crossed paths to head towards opposite coasts for miles & points meetups. On this show they'll discuss their respective trips to Monterrey, CA and Virginia Beach, VA including the hotels and what they enjoyed along the way. Shawn also provides a tip for getting your digital priority pass quickly, Cardless has gotten much better, Rakuten is giving Amex points for getting a Chase card and why Mark likes Hilton Garden Inn.
2025-05-0541 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Last Minute "Free" Trip to Europe, Economy vs. Business, Having 6 Hilton Cards & An Epic DetourGet an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn and Mark discuss last minute plans including Shawn's "free" cruise and his upcoming trip to Europe. Economy vs. business, flying into other airports, repositioning and calculating fuel surcharges are all factors, but what is the best option? We also discuss why you may want tons of Hilton credit cards and the headache they bring, Shawn's upcoming visit to Epic Universe, picking Orlando hotels and why Frontier status...
2025-04-2139 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Battling with AA, Easy $200 Offer + Mark & Shawn Do Vegas!Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn and Mark go over their recent weekend adventures in Vegas which includes many off the Strip sights plus the Capital One lounge, New York New York hotel and a lot more. They also discuss Mark's epic battle brewing with American Airlines, an easy $200 offer that also supports the show plus how amazing service can still exist in 2025. Subscribe to MTM Travel & 20 Mi...
2025-04-0739 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Crazy Spring Break Audible, Last Minute DFW Flights, Hotels & Activities + Getting Chase AeroplanEpisode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn is joined by Joe Cheung to discuss his recent application for the Aeroplan card and how Joe is planning on taking his family to the European Christmas markets. The bulk of the show focuses on Shawn's Spring Break trip which included a same day audible from a road trip to a Dallas Fort Worth adventure. We discuss all of the bookings for the trip, how Shawn pulled it off on the same day, what the new Capital One lounge in Vegas looks like, things to do with kids...
2025-03-2444 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Wild Marriott Indifference, Memories & The Dividends of Travel & Previewing Rio CarnivalJoin MTM Diamond before the price goes up. Limited slots have opened up, but membership will be closing soon. More info here: https://www.patreon.com/c/milestomemories Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn and Mark discuss a recent Marriott experience a friend of theirs ran into. Sometimes indifferent service can make or break a stay and sometimes hotels just don't think of the customer's perspective when fixing issues. Something small can often feel much bigger. We also discuss the idea of travel and how memories are more of a deposit for l...
2025-02-1738 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!The Art of Complaining, Hyatt vs. Marriott, MTM Diamond Slots Open, Creepy Hotel Software & JW Marriott Las Vegas ReviewJoin MTM Diamond before the price goes up. Limited slots have opened up. More info here: https://www.patreon.com/c/milestomemories Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn and Mark discuss their recent weekend trips including more Hilton payment headaches for Mark and a last minute cert redemption at the JW Marriott Las Vegas for Shawn. How do these hotels measure up and is the JW Marriott in Vegas worth staying at even though it isn't on the Strip? We also dive more into the decline in front desk customer service and...
2025-02-1035 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Hawaii for "Free"! - Disney's Aulani, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Issues, North Shore, Pearl Harbor & MoreGet an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of the podcast we dive into Shawn's recent trip to Oahu which included stays at Disney's Aulani in a 2 bedroom villa and the Hyatt Regency Waikiki. We'll go over the hotels including who should and shouldn't stay at Aulani plus some of the issues Shawn ran into at the Hyatt Regency. We also discuss visiting the North Shore, Pearl Harbor, the Dole Plantation, plenty of snorkeling and everything else we did...
2025-01-2746 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!2025 Trip Planning, More Award Headaches & Don't Underestimate ChildrenGet an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of the podcast we dive into our 2025 trip planning including some of the headaches we are facing booking big trips for ourselves and others. We also dive a bit more into family travel, the pains of homeschooling, not underestimating children and some of the places we are eyeing to visit in the upcoming year. Links: Point.me (Shawn's referral) Seats.aero (Shawn's referral) Subscribe to MTM Travel & 20...
2025-01-2038 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Leveling Up Your Award Game, Tips & Tools of the Trade, Timeshare Warnings & Airbnb LetdownGet 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 various aspects of travel planning, including their upcoming trips, the pros and cons of timeshares, the debate between using Airbnb versus hotels, and the intricacies of booking award travel. They also touch on the use of travel tools and why being cheap isn't always the best option. The episode ends with some discussion of Phuket which Shawn calls the Cancun of Thailand. Find out where...
2025-01-1444 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Huge Miles & Points Pitfalls & Hilton's Big DevaluationGet an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn & Mark discuss many of the pitfalls of earning in the miles & points hobby. Shawn discusses his reselling efforts over the years and how difficult they have become. What is worth doing in 2025 and what pitfalls should you be aware of when pursuing other avenues of earning? We also discuss Hilton's big devaluation which includes higher prices and multiple tiers for the first time plus Mark's...
2024-12-2344 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Award Strategies Gone Wrong, Bahamas Hack, Traveler Dilemma & End of Year Credits & Procrastination!Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn & Mark discuss their end of year strategies as they maximize credits and plan for 2025. Shawn takes the approach of procrastination while Mark does it a different way. The two also discuss their upcoming Spring Break planning including why the Bahamas can be good or bad plus why they both value returning to places vs. only visiting new. Episode Guide 0:00 End of year procrastination...
2024-12-1632 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Award Strategies Gone Wrong, Bahamas Hack, Traveler Dilemma & End of Year Credits & Procrastination!Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn & Mark discuss their end of year strategies as they maximize credits and plan for 2025. Shawn takes the approach of procrastination while Mark does it a different way. The two also discuss their upcoming Spring Break planning including why the Bahamas can be good or bad plus why they both value returning to places vs. only visiting new. Episode Guide 0:00 End of year procrastination...
2024-12-1632 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Airline Bag Fee Commissions, Dueling Road Trips, Chicago Holidays Done Right & Thompson Disappoints!Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn & Mark discuss their dueling weekend road trips. Shawn headed down to Long Beach for an MTM Diamond meetup while Mark checked out all of the holiday celebrations happening in Chicago. The two discuss the importance of meetups, how low cost carriers are enticing higher bag fees, getting 200K offer FOMO, why the Thompson Chicago is ruined and all of the cool holiday themed stuff you can do...
2024-12-0940 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Citibank 29 Million Points Shutdown, Chase Cardholder Gifts, Squeezing in Maui & Chicago Xmas MarketGet 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...
2024-12-0237 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Southwest Woes, Mileage Booking Conundrum, Egypt Against A Blogger & Best Budget Hotel Breakfast!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 H...
2024-11-2540 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Chase Bank Error in Our Favor, 5 Years of Hilton Diamond for Free & Spirit Goes Bankrupt!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, h...
2024-11-1841 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Caribbean Luxury in Orlando, Universal On-Property Hacks & Tips & Meta Smartglasses Travel Review!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 d...
2024-11-1147 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Venetian Layoffs, A's Stadium Financing Plan, Caesars Palace Removal & Leaked Delano Transition InfoDon't miss out on the Vegas experience! Download the Golden Nugget Casino app today! Sign-up using https://gnogc.co/m2m or through my promo code M2M 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...
2024-11-0822 min
MTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Best Hyatt Category 1-4, Chicago Christmas Markets, Getting Ready for Q4 & Shawn's Sad Redeye!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 m...
2024-11-0447 min
MTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Airline Seat Fee Scams, Chase Insurance Changes & Fascinating Survey Data Behind the Points Hobby!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 m...
2024-10-2844 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Navigating Flight Delays, Cruise Industry Boom & Anatomy Of A Trip - Seattle, Spokane & Coeur d'AleneTake our survey to help us build better content for you! It's quick and easy. Thank you in advance! Miles to Memories Podcast Listener Survey Episode Description On this episode, Shawn and Joe discuss their experiences with flight delays and cancellations due to weather and air traffic control issues. They explore the growing trend of experiential travel on cruise ships and the impact of COVID-19 on the cruise industry. Shawn also shares his trip to Seattle, Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, and Silverwood. He highlights the Wild Waves amusement park in Seattle, which he found to be disappointing. H...
2024-08-2248 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Haunted Hotels, Pet Cafes & Our Fantastic Last Minute Bookings to Hawaii, Japan & Taiwan!Episode Description On this episode Shawn is joined by Joe Cheung to recap his recent trip to Hawaii, Japan and Taiwan. The trip was booked mostly last minute, built around a Starlux business class redemption home. Shawn discusses his time in Hawaii including why the Grand Hyatt Kauai has lost some luster, his last minute ANA A380 Flying Honu business class redemption, why Japan has become such an amazing family travel destination, being haunted at the Grand Hyatt Taipei and why last minute travel continues to work for him. Another amazing trip mostly paid for by miles & points! E...
2024-06-1349 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Visiting Japan for the 1st or 37th Time with PDX Deals GuyEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast, Shawn Coomer is joined by PDX Deals Guy to discuss his recent first ever trip to Japan. How it was flying JAL, making last minute changes, hotels, food and how hard is it for a first time traveler? Plus bullet trains and whether it makes sense to day trip to Kyoto. Shawn also provides an update on his upcoming trip which is both crazy and changing rapidly but should be fun. Get ready for some inspiration as we bring you the virtual sights, smells and tastes of J...
2024-05-2349 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Conrad Orlando Wow, Rise of Video, Free Cruise Strategies & The Changing Game with Mark JacksonEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast, Shawn Coomer and Mark Jackson discuss various topics related to travel, including alternate content, cruising, and hotels in Orlando. They talk about the shift from reading blogs to watching videos, the popularity of cruising, and how to score deals while generating spend on cruises. They also review the Conrad hotel in Orlando and compare it to other Hilton properties in the area. Additionally, they discuss the Brightline train service in Florida before diving into the evolution of earning miles and points, AI and the changing landscape of sh...
2024-05-1645 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Demystifying Hilton Brands, Hilton Honors Insights & Southwest's Big Change?Episode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss Shawn's recent trip to Nashville and all of the takeaways from his time spent there. They go over why there are so many brands these days and how consumers are changing. Plus will there be more changes to Hilton credit cards and how will they integrate all of their upcoming partnerships into the program? Joe also discusses his Spirit adventure and why Southwest may be finally moving away from their cattle call boarding. Episode Notes 0:00 - Flying Spirit 8:06 - DOT forcing airlines...
2024-05-0250 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Evolution of the Miles and Points Space, Extreme Tracking & Picking Cards with Grant ThomasEpisode Description In this episode, Shawn and Grant discuss their experiences in the miles and points hobby. They talk about the evolution of the space, the changing credit card landscape, and strategies for maximizing rewards. They also touch on the importance of organization and tracking, especially when it comes to credit card offers and free night certificates. Finally they dive behind the scenes of upcoming trips, share their love of Scandinavia and discuss how cruise hacking has become such a good opportunity lately. Episode Notes 0:00 - Introduction to Travel with Grant 7:58 - Keeping up with the c...
2024-04-2550 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Maximizing 0% APR Offers, Turning Down An Amazing Retention Offer & Is Chase's Disney Offer Good?Episode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast, Shawn and Joe discuss their experiences recording on the road and share some travel hacks for setting up recording equipment in different environments. They also talk about their missed opportunity to see the solar eclipse and the impact of the eclipse on wildlife. The conversation then shifts to regional food chains like Bojangles and Waffle House, and the excitement of these chains expanding to new locations. On the credit card side of things, a new offer for Chase Disney Visa cardholders has been released, but is it a...
2024-04-1839 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Spring Break In Europe - Flights, Hotels, Practical Advice & GratitudeEpisode Description On this episode Shawn discusses his recent family Spring Break trip to Lisbon and Paris. Learn about the flights and redemptions plus some of the cool things seen along the way. Family travel can be difficult, but it is so rewarding, even if it is squeezed into a tight timeframe. Shawn & Joe also discuss the power of returning places, where to stay at Disneyland Paris & how a drone show inspired the whole thing. Episode Notes 3:38 One-way car rentals for repositioning 4:45 AA Business Class to Europe 6:40 How cool is Lisbon? 8:53 Why you need to...
2024-03-2143 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Rethinking Your Hotel Loyalty & Elite Status Game with Benjy HarmonEpisode Description On this episode of the podcast Shawn is joined by MtM Contributor and MtM Diamond moderator Benjy Harmon. Shawn & Benjy dive deep into why you may want to rethink your hotel elite strategy, why Hyatt may be overrated and a cool little place you can visit on your next stop into DFW.
2024-03-1442 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Hyatt Concierge Frustration, Companion Pass Shortcut & New Vegas Status MatchEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss the Super Bowl in Las Vegas and what the experience is like seeing U2 at the Sphere. They also discuss tons of new card offers that have dropped in the past week including a fast track to the Southwest Companion Pass. Other topics include: Hyatt concierge frustration, losing Vendome, Chinese New Year & Joe's upcoming trip to Taiwan. Episode Notes 0:00 - Las Vegas baby 16:44 - Shawn spring break updates and pivots, Hyatt concierge frustrations 27:25 - Joe's going to Taiwan 39:08...
2024-02-1548 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Attempted Vendoming, Missing Icon, Epic Universe & Foreign Currency Return TrapEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss the newly announced Epic Universe park in Orlando. This new theme park should be on everyone's radar and we'll tell you why. We also discuss the trap when returning things in a foreign currency, Shawn attempts to Vendome, Joe isn't impressed with Trip It Pro and why Icon of the Seas will have to wait for next time. Episode Notes 1:54 - Joe's no good very bad weekend 9:58 - TripIt Pro and Halfday 16:49 - Losing money on a return?? 26:38...
2024-02-0848 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!MGM Gets Bonvoyed, Getting Around Hyatt's Quirks and Last Minute Spring BreakEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss the announced details of the new MGM/Marriott partnership. It is coming much later than expected (in fact we still don't have a date), but is it better than Hyatt's previous partnership and what sort of benefits will you get when staying? They also discuss some of Hyatt's quirks, Shawn's last minute Paris Spring Break trip and a checking account bonus that is lucrative and easy to grab. Episode Notes 6:04 - MGM Bonvoy details 15:38 - Las Vegas eras 18:38 - Dealing with Hyatt's quirky award rules 30:04...
2024-01-1841 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Google Gets Sued, Problems to the MAX and United's Adventure WeekEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss how travel has changed over the years plus share some of their recent woes including double bookings and the Mexico award dilemma. They also discuss a big lawsuit against Google, United's Adventure Week, some nice new airline portal bonuses and the fallout from Alaska's scary MAX incident. Episode Notes 0:00 - Shawn's jealous of Joe 4:20 - Check free cruise offers 6:24 - Old men yell at clouds 19:14 - More MAX problems, the airplane not the badly named streaming service
2024-01-1143 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Redefining Loyalty? Hyatt Announces Huge Changes for 2024!Episode Description Disclosure: Hyatt invited me to their headquarters in Chicago to learn about this announcement. They provided my room, meals and flights, but did not dictate how this news is covered. On this episode Shawn discusses the big changes coming to the World of Hyatt program in 2024. He flew to Hyatt's headquarters in Chicago to get all of the details and shares them here with you! Shawn and Joe also discuss positive IRS changes, de-briefing from Black Friday and more. Joe rants about streaming. Episode Notes 0:00 - Breaking News! Big H...
2023-11-3053 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Chase Just for You, Wyndham Vacasa Deval & Andaz Costa RicaEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss the recent tragic storm in Acapulco and how people are being impacted. They also look at some big targeted Chase offers, detail how Wyndham devalued Vacasa redemptions and Shawn reviews the Andaz Papagayo in Costa Rica. Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at podcast@milestomemories.com. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Sticher, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? P...
2023-11-0247 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Citi's New Transfer Partner, Amex "Upgrades" Hilton Cards, Delta Backtracks & Seats.Aero SuedEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss some recent changes in the hotel space. These include Hyatt's Home & Hideaways launching, Chase expanding their Luxury hotel collection and Citi adding a transfer partner that may actually present a great value. On the loyalty front just as Delta backtracked some of their many negative changes to SkyMiles, Southwest announced tweaks to their program that may make some flyers happy. We also discuss the Seats.Aero lawsuit, the changes made to Hilton's Amex cards and whether the new "Amex family rule" will spread to all cards across their...
2023-10-2645 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Picking up 75K, New Global Entry App & 10 Words Ruined By "The Hobby"Episode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss why 0% APR offers can be something to look for and how Shawn grabbed a quick 75K Membership Rewards on a no annual fee card. They also discuss the return of Chase Ink 90K offers, Global Entry's new app and why it probably isn't important, more info on the Chicago Seminars and 10 words that are ruined by the miles & points hobby. Episode Notes 9:43 - Blue Business Plus and small business discussion 22:33 - Chase Ink 90K 25:41 - Global Entry 28:48 - 10 words miles and...
2023-09-2842 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Trip Cancelation Tips, Another Devaluation & Chicago Seminars DramaEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss how to use those lucrative Amazon Pay with Points deals that surface around Prime Day. They also discuss another devaluation, new Chase spending offers and exactly what is happening with the Chicago Seminars plus where you can see Shawn speak. Episode Notes 0:00 - Summer travel updates and discussion 11:35 - Chicago seminars 19:13 - Amazon pay with points is back! 23:09 - Cathay Pacific devaluation 26:32 - Chase spend bonuses 29:24 - Dealing with travel disruptions Enjoying...
2023-07-1341 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!The Beauty of Norway, Good Card Offers & The Case Against TravelEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss cruising to Norway, London hotels for families and how Shawn and family ended their 7 week adventure. They also discuss an interesting article arguing against travel, struggling with a costly business class upgrade, a great AA card offer, Southwest extending their popular deal and how to grab $10 in free Lyft credit. Episode Notes 2:20 - Wrapping up Shawn's Europe trip 13:11 - London and getting home 23:59 - Bilt day July 25:05 - Southwest credit card extensions and companion pass discussion 32:59...
2023-06-2948 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Stranded in Memphis, JAL's Coffin Suite & Japan Hotel Overload with Jasmine CoomerEpisode Description In this episode Jasmine Coomer returns to talk with Shawn about their recent travels, how she was stranded in Memphis and why Graceland is worth the hefty admission fee. Plus is the new Hyatt Caption brand any good? They also discuss their recent adventures in Japan and flying in Japan Airlines business class in their unique coffin suite. Other topics discussed include: how traveling in Japan is so much easier than it used to be, which points hotel is best for Tokyo Disney, the best Hyatt Place in the world, whether the Park...
2023-05-2557 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!7 Deadly Sins of Travel Hacking & Behind the Curtain of Freelancing with Lee HuffmanEpisode Description On this episode Shawn is joined by long time miles & points blogger and podcaster Lee Huffman from Bald Thoughts. Shawn and Lee discuss some of the pitfalls of miles & points and how to avoid them. They also discuss freelance corporate content vs. personal blogs, the dangers of some travel hacking social media content, leaving his job to relocate across the country, the joys and realities of family travel and some of the cool places to see around his new home in Tennessee. Episode Notes 0:00 - Intro and hello to Lee Huffman...
2023-05-1856 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Rakuten's Big Week, Air New Zealand's Skycouch and a New Southwest PerkEpisode Description In this episode Shawn and Joe discuss their trip planning, a new Southwest perk, Rakuten's big week, travel pet peeves and a whole lot more! Plus, some random landscaping talk that's sure to be a lot of fun. Episode Notes 6:01 - Trip planning to New Zealand, Japan, Asia and more 23:10 - Southwest adds a long needed perk 25:14 - Rakuten's big week 30:44 - Travel grievances 37:10 - Shawn visits Wynn Las Vegas Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on yo...
2023-05-1152 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Last Minute Shift to Japan, The Ultimate Travel Hack & Some Chase Apps Skipping 5/24Episode Description In this episode Shawn and Joe discuss the many recent changes to travel plans including a last minute business class saver award to Japan and how Shawn just couldn't resist. They'll talk through the planning process, getting hotels and upgrades plus the Japan rail pass. Other topics covered include: recent Chase Sapphire Preferred apps avoiding 5/24, the 165K IHG Business card offer, understanding Hilton's food and beverage credit and the Ultimate Travel hack. Episode Notes 0:00 - Stranded in Memphis 4:51 - Japan! 14:26 - Park Hyatt Tokyo closing for refurbishment
2023-05-0440 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Citi Retention Windfall, Analyzing 5X Categories & Does Virgin Voyages Live Up to the Hype?Episode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss Citi retention strategies, some recent data points and how you can get multiple offers with just one phone call. They also dive into rotating 5X categories on some cards and United's new promo that may be worth looking at. In the main segment Shawn discusses his recent Virgin Voyage top to bottom looking at the cabins, service, entertainment and the food. This adults only cruise line delivers a unique experience in many ways but it also falls flat sometimes. Overall is it worth booking a Virgin...
2023-04-1349 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Another Sudden Devaluation, Booking Headaches & Sapphire Reserve's True ValueEpisode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss the headaches that can be associated with booking awards. Joe's recent booking included misinformation, strange phone numbers hangups and a lot of patience. Was it worth it? Other topics discussed include: the true value of the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Hyatt's tricky new Bonus Journeys promotion and Alaska's sudden devaluation that adds to a list of recent painful announcements. Episode Notes 1:24 - Shawn's upcoming Virgin cruise 7:27 - Revenge travel and prices 11:44 - Booking headaches for Australia 27:17...
2023-03-2344 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Hyatt's Ugly Changes, Big Chase Offer Ending & The Crazy Road to CaboEpisode Description On this episode Shawn discusses his return to the Waldorf Cabo and why he isn't in Japan instead. Miles and points present the ultimate in flexibility and thankfully they came in handy here. How is the Waldorf Cabo on a second visit? In other news Shawn and Joe discuss the big Hyatt changes and how they are just plain ugly. Plus what is the first thing you do in a hotel room, why you might want the apply for the Chase Ink 90K offers before they disappear soon and how Southwest is trying...
2023-03-0940 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Award Alerts, Biz Plat True Value & Disney Cruise Line Concierge ReviewEpisode Description On this episode Joe returns from his trip to talk about Disney Cruise line concierge level, the costs and whether it's worth booking over standard rooms. Is it possible to score an upgrade for cheaper than the full cost? Shawn and Joe also talk Genting Highlands, the Alila Kuala Lumpur, pains with Chase Travel, award alerts and what exactly the Amex Business Platinum is worth. Episode Notes 2:28 - Shawn Reece round the world trip updates 7:40 - Award alerts and using Spencer's newsletters to snag great seats
2023-03-0251 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Mileage Portal Bonuses, Southwest Companion Pass Offer, New Delta Perk & Uber Almost Got Shawn!Episode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss the new Southwest card welcome offers that include a year+ of the Companion Pass. They also discuss new airline mileage portal bonuses, Shawn's interesting run in with Uber at the airport, a new rewarding perk of Delta cards and an update on Joe's controversial booking. Episode Notes 0:30 - Updating Joe's Delta redemption plus thoughts on award bookings now that airlines have given us added flexibility 16:38 - Uber almost gets Shawn paying double 20:38 - New Southwest Companion Pass offer 25:12...
2023-02-0936 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Redemption Shaming, Miles & Points for Budget Travel and is MSC As Bad As They Say?Episode Description On this episode Shawn and Joe discuss how we redeem points and why it doesn't always mesh with what others would do. Redemption shaming can be a problem in the hobby, but how can we all do better? We also discuss miles & points for budget travel and how they can be incredible to get more travel when not focusing on premium redemptions, IHG's best ever 175K welcome offer and how MSC stacks up to other cruise lines. Are they as bad as their reputation? Genie+ guide on Trips with Tykes
2023-02-0252 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!MtM Origin Story with Jasmine Coomer Part 2: Miles, Points and the Memories Made Along the WayEpisode Description On this second part of the MtM Origin Story Shawn and Jasmine talk about the miles & points part of their journey. Learn about some of the dream trips they have taken for free and why that first taste of hotel elite status was so yummy. They also dive into their decision to go semi-nomadic with their 7 year old daughter, somewhat recreating their original trip from 2007. What are the challenges of this type of travel and how do miles and points factor in? How does homeschooling affect things and what other challenges factor into...
2023-01-0938 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!MtM Origin Story with Jasmine Coomer Part 1: A Family 'Round the WorldEpisode Description Join Shawn and his wife Jasmine for a fun conversation that explains the origin of Miles to Memories. In this first part we talk about our decision to sell everything to travel around the world with our 6 year old son and some of the crazy stuff that happened along the way. From hostel life to rat infested cruises it was quite an adventure. And we did it all with a kid. Is this a good thing and how can children benefit from this type of travel? Stay tuned for Part 2!
2023-01-0546 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Scammers Come For Shawn's Family, Next Level Timing Of Applications & Hitting The Southwest Companion PassEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we talk about the scammers coming after Shawn's dad, why now is the time to go all in on the Companion Pass and how to time credit card applications to perfection. We also discussed if we went after the Bank of America spending day and car rental prices changing after bookings. Episode Notes 0:00 - Shawn's family almost gets scammed 10:42 - Southwest companion pass offers 18:00 - Timing credit card applications 28:58 - Bank of America bonus spending day 33:39 - Car rental prices changing after booking?
2022-11-1045 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Newest Carnival Ship Is Walmart Of The Seas, Last Chance To Double Dip & Mean Review ReadingEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss Shawn's experience on the Carnival Mardi Gras (Walmart of the Seas) and discuss how to get through to AMEX chat faster and the power of Google Flights. Episode Notes 4:36 - Carnival Mardi Gras 8:10 - Shawn's free stateroom 13:12 - Questionable ship design and clientele 26:06 - Food and entertainment 39:52 - Credit card news and updates (Marriott Brilliant, AMEX chat reps, Google Flights) 48:36 - MEAN REVIEW Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! Y...
2022-09-1553 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Has The FHR Gravy Train Come To An End, Southwest Companion Pass After 1 Flight & Confessing Our Travel Hacking MistakesEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss a last minute trip to Portland Maine, Shawn fighting for his insurance payout and Amex cracking down on FHR gaming. We also discuss a huge number of transfer bonuses, errors we make paying bills and Southwest's intriguing new Companion Pass offer. Episode Notes 5:13 - Last Minute Labor Day trip to Portland, ME 14:19 - Shawn's late, late travel insurance payout 16:46 - AMEX adds anti gaming FHR terms 20:14 - AMEX Membership Rewards bonuses 22:52 - Don't forget to turn on autopay! 34:33 - New Southwest...
2022-09-0844 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Navigating The Amex No Lifetime Language Offers Windfall, Visiting The Loch Ness Monster & How To Get Back To The USEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss the craziness of Amex no lifetime language offers and what you can do with them. We also discuss the process of testing for US re-entry, Shawn visiting the Loch Ness monster and why Mark slept in a tent outside his own home. Episode Notes 0:25 - Scotland and Shawn's trip updates 10:11 - Mark's in a tent! 15:36 - Re-entering the United States from other countries & travel insurance. 31:13 - AMEX No Lifetime Language offers Enjoying...
2022-06-0941 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Are Hyatt Lounges Gone For Good, Insane Offers Keep Rolling In & Hyatt Loses Cosmo In VegasEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss whether or not Hyatt lounges will ever open again domestically. We also discuss Shawn getting on another boat, Choice actually having sweet spot redemptions, Amex keeps rolling out insanely profitable offers and how MGM bonvoyed Hyatt at the Cosmo. Episode Notes 4:58 - Shawn's on a boat again 9:07 - Detroit FC meetup 12:59 - Crazy AMEX bonus 17:10 - MGM buys Cosmo, bonvoys Hyatt lovers 21:56 - Choice hotels give value?? 27:16 - Copenhagen/Scandavia/S...
2022-05-1946 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Hyatt's Big Expansion, Complications Booking Last Minute Travel & Why You Should Always Ask For MoreEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss Hyatt's big expansion into all inclusive resorts, how far we go for big miles and points wins plus an update on Joe's JetBlue saga. We also talk about the ports Shawn visited on the way to Europe, Mark's Chicago trip and the headaches of booking travel last minute now. Episode Notes 0:00 - Shawn in the Atlantic 5:13 - Mark in Chicago 11:37 - Getting the Wells Fargo bonus 16:38 - New Hyatt All Inclusives 21:55...
2022-05-1247 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Cruise Hacking - Free Cruises, Maximizing Offers, Status Matching & CRAZY Prices Right NowEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast Shawn will discuss all of the craziness in the cruise industry and some amazing deals you don't want to miss out on before the cruise industry returns to normal. Recorded from his Transatlantic cruise somewhere in the middle of the ocean, he discusses strategies for saving on the 3 major mass market cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean and NCL) plus how you can utilize casino and hotel status to get free cruises & more. Plus Ellie joins in to review the Carnival Pride from a kids perspective. Enjoy!
2022-05-0539 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!When To Jump Off The Chase 5/24 Bandwagon, Reward Good Service While Traveling & Dasher DiariesEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss when it makes sense to jump off the Chase 5/24 bandwagon. We also get an update on Shawn's travels up the California coast and into Oregon. We discuss why it is important to recognize great service while traveling, when Best Western blows Hyatt away & more Dasher Diaries stories. Episode Notes 2:38 - Shawn hanging out in Portland 5:14 - Dasher Diaries 9:42 - When is it time to focus on, or move on from, Chase 5/24 22:30 - Shawn's staying...
2022-03-2439 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Is World of Hyatt Card Now Worthless, Doing Atlantis On The Cheap & 14 Day Transatlantic CruiseEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss if the shine has worn off the World of Hyatt card some, Shawn taking a 14 day transatlantic cruise to save on airfare and Chase extends Pay Yourself Back. We also talk about booking Atlantis Bahamas on the cheap, Marriott certificate points posting and an update on Shawn's California road trip. Episode Notes 5:07 - Shawn's California updates 9:28 - Visit Atlantis on the cheap 13:31 - Shawn's trip planning 17:40 - 14 day transatlantic cruise 20:59 - Marriott...
2022-03-1743 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!The Good & Bad Of Elite Status, Massive Amex Retention Offers, DC Conrad & Southern California Trip ReportsEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we debate whether or not status is overrated and if people ignore the true cost. We also discuss massive Amex retention offers, a new Dasher Diaries story. Lastly, Mark talks about his recent trip to DC and Shawn talks about his travels around SoCal Episode Notes 00:31 - Washington DC trip report 7:17 - Dasher Diaries 21:37 - Shawn updates his travels around SoCal 30:44 - Huge AMEX retention offers 34:41 - Status FIGHT Enjoying the podcast? P...
2022-03-1053 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Worst Business Class Flight Ever, IHG Making Big Moves & The Scammers Are WinningEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss how the fraudsters are winning, what we think of the IHG refresh and whether or not it has us jumping on board and what a horrible business class flight experience is like. Mark also gives an update on his DoorDash experience and Shawn gives updates on his big trip. Episode Notes 2:57 - Doordash Chronicles 12:17 - Paypal fraud update 20:32 - Shawn trip planning updates 26:35 - New IHG cards 34:43 - SAS J
2022-01-2744 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Chase's Big Time Flop, California Trip Report & Mark Does WHAT To His Eyebrows!?Episode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we talk about Shawn's recent trip to the bay area in California, planning future travels in this environment and what to do with expiring Hyatt free night certificates. We also give a quick overview of the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay, discuss Shawn's big family shake up and Chase's recent dud. Episode Notes 6:37 - The last day of school 10:38 - Planning trips in this environment 16:21 - Bay area trip 24:53 - Expiring Hyatt free nights 26:56 - H...
2021-12-2347 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Getting Casino Status On The Cheap, Vegas' Future Expansion & When Buying Batteries Gets Real WeirdEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we take a detour and introduce the new MtM Vegas podcast that just launched. Shawn and Mark discuss Resorts World's $150 free money offer dieing, the issues they have had so far and what is next for Vegas. We also discuss how to get top tier status on the cheap, get all the free goodies and how to avoid parking fees. Mark finishes it off with his most bizarre Vegas memory that is sure to get you thinking What The Heck!? Episode Notes 2:28 - R...
2021-07-081h 00MTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Amex Platinum Has Massive Changes, Resorts World Grand Opening Review & East Coast Trip ReportEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discussing the increased Amex Platinum fee and all of the new "benefits" or should we say coupons. Shawn and Mark talk about their thoughts of the Resorts World opening and Shawn talks about his recent trip to the East Coast. We also talk about things you shouldn't do in China and a great option for return to the US testing. Episode Notes 6:25 - Shawn's East Coast trip 10:51 - Rental cars 11:29 - Hotel stays 15:16 - Jersey s...
2021-07-0148 min
Disney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!New Spectaculars, Incredible Rooms & Disney’s Worst Theme ParkEpisode Description On this week's episode Gregg and Shawn take a look at the history behind Disney's worst park: Disney Studios Paris. There's also a ton of news to catch up on including fireworks returning to the US parks, new rooms at the Contemporary, Bob Chapek having no idea when Splash Mountain was built and a whole lot more! Episode Notes 7:35 - Chapek on Splash Mountain 10:44 - New fireworks shows planned at Disney World 13:00 - Single rider lines return 14:14 - Disney hiring issues 17:53 - Incredibles t...
2021-06-2853 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Each Bank's Biggest Weakness, A Tax Proposal With Big Travel Hacking Implications & Lake Tahoe Trip ReportEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss each bank's biggest weakness, a troubling new tax law proposal that could change travel hacking and Shawn's recent trip to Reno / Lake Tahoe. We also update you on Mark's savings for college, the best Japanese onsens and award travel acronyms. Episode Notes 5:48 - Lake Tahoe Trip Report 15:30 - Citi weaknesses 18:48 - Chase weaknesses 21:28 - AMEX weaknesses 24:48 - BofA weaknesses 27:06 - Troubling new tax rule? 32:56 - Money for college
2021-05-0639 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Disneyland Ticket Woes & Guide to Opening, DisneySea Does It Right & I Was Wrong About Spaceship EarthEpisode Description Disneyland is marching towards re-opening at the end of April and we have all of the info you need to book your tickets and navigate their new reservations system. Gregg is heading to both parks at Disneyland Resort for the opening of Avengers Campus on June 4 and Shawn is waiting for out of state guests to be allowed. Meanwhile across the Pacific Shanghai Disneyland debuted their new nighttime spectacular that is nothing short of amazing. We also learned even more about Tokyo DisneySea's Fantasy Springs expansion. This is a land you'll want to...
2021-04-1941 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Amex Tries To Break Up Families, The Best Chase Card is Surprising & Doing Florida On The CheapEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we discuss Amex's negative Centurion Lounge changes, the new king of Chase card welcome offers & how Shawn saved money on his latest Florida vacation. We also discuss American Airlines' best kept secret and how snazzy Bellagios new rooms look. Episode Notes 5:21 - United Quest and Chase personal card rankings 13:29 - AMEX Centurion removes guest privileges 20:29 - Saving money on car rentals in Florida 24:43 - How Shawn saved money on hotels in Florida 39:29 - AA...
2021-04-1545 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Our Triumphant Return to Theme Parks, Jungle Cruise Characters & A Touch of DisneyWelcome to the Disney Hacks Podcast where we show you how to save time & money on Disney. Episode Description Disneyland is marching closer to reopening but they aren't the only ones. Parks across California are ramping up and we'll discuss what it is like to visit them. Gregg went to Magic Mountain on opening day and he'll also discuss what it was like visiting Disney's "A Touch of Disney" food festival. We also discuss Shawn's experience at Legoland and Seaworld over in Florida. On the trip planning side Joe Cheung joins in to...
2021-04-0542 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Preferred Blows Reserve Out Of The Water, Easy Miles & Points Wins, Shawn Hits Up South BeachEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we talk about Shawn's recent visit to South Beach and Central Florida. We also talk about why the Sapphire Preferred has been kicking the Sapphire Reserves butt lately. Lastly, we talk about the small miles and points wins we love, and hate. Episode Notes 8:56 - The Best Sapphire card 18:40 - Easy wins that bring joy 23:56 - Shawn went to Miami! 37:19 - Free golf with hotel stay 38:24 - Don't be your own worst enemy
2021-04-0144 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Disneyland Opening Need to Knows, Stunning Disney World Castle Concept & More Fan ControversyWelcome to the Disney Hacks Podcast where we show you how to save time & money on Disney. Episode Description We now know a lot more about the re-opening of Disneyland and other California amusement parks. We'll go over exactly what we know including which parks are going to open on April 1 and when Disneyland will open its doors again. How much will Disneyland cost? Until they re-open many of the Southern California parks are running food festivals as well. Gregg is going to many of them and he recaps the Boysenberry Festival at...
2021-03-2239 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Amex Dropping Bombs, Our Bougie Birthdays & Our First Mileage Run Of 2021Episode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we talk about a mileage run to Panama, Amex's amazing new offers and stacking the deals for big wins. We also talk about our favorite birthday trips, maxing out Chase Freedom's new categories, Hyatt's continued expansion and much more. Episode Notes 5:55 - Shawn's winning! (Panama airfare deal and mileage run) 14:01 - Insane increased Amex sign up offers 18:58 - Coolest birthday trips 30:55 - Maxing out Chase Freedom's 2nd quarter 31:39 - Hyatt 1,000 Hotel Promo 32:58...
2021-03-1836 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Disneyland Shocker, Epcot Monstrosity & Disney Imagineering's Biggest BlundersWelcome to the Disney Hacks Podcast where we show you how to save time & money on Disney. Episode Description Disneyland and other California theme parks will be able to re-open as soon as April 1. The bombshell news dropped recently and while we aren't sure the parks will be open on exactly that date, we should be seeing them come back to life very soon. And speaking of back to life, before they are able to re-open with rides, many of the Southern California parks including Knott's Berry Farm, Universal Studios and Disney California...
2021-03-0845 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Why Resort Fees Aren't All Bad, Application Spree Results & The Craziness Of North Korean MoneyEpisode Description In this episode of the Miles to Memories podcast we debate resort fees and discuss why they maybe aren't so bad. We also take about saving for college with travel hacking, recent application spree results and why North Korean money is so interesting. Episode Notes 3:45 - Resort fees - are they as bad as everyone says they are? (Shawn's solution) 17:27 - Mark's application spree 23:03 - North Korean currency and foreign currencies in general 30:00 - Mark's college savings update 31:45 - The Affirm "Debit" card
2021-03-0439 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!I Went to Disneyland & Disney World 50th InfoWelcome to the Disney Hacks Podcast where we show you how to save time & money on Disney. Episode Description After almost a year of being shuttered what is it like visiting Disneyland Resort right now? Shawn recently took a trip to Southern California for some Disneyland and even a little rideless Seaworld. How is it different? Plus Disney released even more details of Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary celebration and Gregg discusses a documentary about one of the amusement industry's most iconic companies (huge Disney tie-ins). Episode Notes 3:27 - V...
2021-02-2233 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Credit Card Blind Spots, Best Travel Apps & A California Trip ReportEpisode Description In episode 79 we talk about our favorite travel apps, Shawn shares details from his recent trip to California and we share our travel hacking blind spots. We also talk about locked ThankYou points, JetBlue's customer friendly change and how to get Apple News+ for free. Episode Notes 6:20 - Best travel apps 13:43 - Shawn's CA trip report, 3 Hyatts! 25:27 - Credit Card/Travel Hacking Blind Spots 30:11 - Getting locked Thank You Points back 30:56 - Jetblue says goodbye to change fees 34:14 - Apple News+ f...
2021-02-1838 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!WDW Annual Pass, Super Nintendo World & Skipper Gary Talks Jungle Cruise UpdatesWelcome to the Disney Hacks Podcast where we show you how to save time & money on Disney. Episode Description On this week's show we talk annual pass fun. Specifically how Shawn is utilizing a loophole to try to get an annual pass, but it isn't quite that simple. Hopefully Disney will come through. Plus we discuss Seaworld annual pass arbitrage and how you can save money by buying your pass outside of Florida. Skipper Gary from Coasting with Culture also joined us for this show as we discuss the first looks at Super N...
2021-02-0840 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Massive Amex Credits, NoMad Vegas Overview & Saving For College With Hacking SkillsEpisode Description In episode 77 we talk about Amex giving away hundreds of dollars to cardholders with their no credits. We also share an awesome way to track the credits each month, Shawn's recent stay at the awesome NoMad hotel in Vegas and how Mark is paying for college with travel hacking skills. Episode Notes 6:38 - Amex limited time offers 14:52 - NoMad hotel stay 23:15 - Mark's paying for college! 28:17 - MORE Amex offers 30:04 - Jetblue Mint to London 32:54 - Moomoo E...
2021-02-0438 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Disney Bathroom Frenzy, Disappointing Star Wars Hotel & What Will Replace Disneyland APsDescription Welcome to the Disney Hacks Podcast where we show you how to save time & money on Disney. Episode Description On this week's show we head over to Walt Disney World to break down the latest craziness. From 8+ hour lines for cookies to a mad rush to see new bathrooms there are quite a few interesting things to talk about. We also discuss our disappointment with the Star Wars Hotel, Shawn's favorite show is returning and the Magical Express is ending. Over at the OG Disneyland we also got a preview...
2021-01-2541 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!More Disney Closures, Missed Holidays in the Park & Disney Gift Card Stash!Description Welcome to the Disney Hacks Podcast where we show you how to save time & money on Disney. Episode Description Gregg took this episode off as he is working at the polls. On this solo show Shawn discusses the bad news about Disneyland not reopening soon and the even worse news about Disneyland Paris closing its doors once again. On the positive front we'll talk about saving on Disney gift cards plus what to do with your stash of Disney money from cancelled 2020 trips. So much lost this year but so...
2020-11-0214 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Gray Areas of Resident Ticket Offers & Most Overrated Disney AttractionsWelcome to the Disney Hacks Podcast where we show you how to save time & money on Disney. Episode Description Maybe you haven't noticed, but there are some amazing ticket deals for Orlando theme parks, but they have restrictions. On this episode Gregg & Shawn look at the gray area of resident offers, how to see if you're eligible and the shocking prices some parks are offering. Plus, we dive into a topic that every Disney fan has contemplated. Yes, we go into great detail to discuss Disney's most overrated attractions plus we each share our top...
2020-08-2446 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Disneyland Reopening, Hong Kong's Frozen Coaster & What It's Like In Parks TodayEpisode Description In this episode Gregg and Shawn discuss what Disney told and us what they didn't about the proposed Disneyland re-opening. There are some interesting clues, plus what will happen with all of the annual passholders and which ride are we going on first when we go back. Plus we learn some disappointing Frozen ride news from Hong Kong Disneyland and we talk Shawn's opening day Circus Circus Adventuredome tour plus Gregg's coverage of Lagoon's lack of social distancing and face masks. Note: Lagoon changed their policy to require masks at all t...
2020-06-1644 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Shanghai Disneyland, Florida Reopening Guidelines and Yacht Club ReviewEpisode Description On this episode we move beyond Disneyland to talk about Shawn's disappointing stay at Disney's Yacht Club plus the proposed mandates and guidelines for reopening Walt Disney World. We also go on a detailed tour of Shanghai Disneyland where Shawn talks about his favorite parts across his three visits plus Shanghai Disney tips & what future expansion has in store for the resort. Episode Notes 4:22 - Yacht Club Review 17:25 - Florida's Theme Park Reopening Guidelines 29:10 - Shanghai Disneyland Overview 32:46 - Gardens of Imagination
2020-05-051h 02
Disney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Shawn's Disney Story, Disneyland History and Favorite AttractionsEpisode Description In this episode Shawn and Gregg take a deeper look at the Disneyland Resort. They dive into the evolution of the resort, discuss their favorite Disneyland rides plus explain why Disney's Maxpass is absolutely worth the money despite the cost. Shawn also dives into his own Disney story as well. Episode Notes 2:05 - Favorite Disneyland things 7:01 - The evolution of Disneyland 10:15 - Disneyland and Disney California Adventure history 15:14 - Maxpass 23:32 - Shawn's Disney background 29:24 - Favorite Disneyland rides About t...
2020-04-2836 minDisney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Meet the Hosts, Our Disney Backgrounds and Rise of the Resistance DebatesEpisode Description In our first episode, we discuss the ongoing closure of Disney parks around the globe and how that is impacting us all. We also dive into Gregg's Disney backstory including how he started Park Journey and we debate Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Episode Notes 5:26 - How Disney has been handling the closures 10:13 - Introducing Shawn and Gregg 15:46 - Gregg's Disney story 19:43 - Being Disney parents 26:00 - Is Rise of the Resistance worth the hype? About the Podcast More Disney...
2020-04-2334 min
Disney Hacks by MtM - Disneyland, Walt Disney World & Beyond!Welcome to Disney HacksDisney Hacks is the podcast to help you save time and money on Disney. Join Shawn from Miles to Memories and Greg from Park Journey as we share our expertise to help you experience more Disney for less money both at home and abroad.
2020-04-1802 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Getting Seats with Basic Economy, Under 5/24 Strategy and an Atlantis DisasterEpisode Description In episode 24 we talk about traveling about Shawn's Atlantis disaster, what to do when you are under Chase 5/24 and how the largest mall in America is an epic fail . We also talk about flying basic economy with kids, Amazon's awesome deal and our favorite posts of 2019. Episode Notes 0:00 America's largest mall & visiting NYC 11:16 Game plan for when you are under Chase 5/24 17:57 Should you book basic economy with kids? 25:19 Shawn's recent stay at the Atlantis 28:22 Why the Atlantis is one of the worst run h...
2020-01-2355 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Chase Sapphire Reserve Changes, 100,000 Hilton Points and Is Loyalty a Scam?Episode Description In episode 22 we talk about the CSR devaluation, an amazing timeshare offer and whether or not loyalty programs and status are a sham. Shawn also previews his thoughts on Baha Mar so far and how to find mistake rates plus all of the best deals of the week. Don't forget about the outtakes either! Episode Notes 5:29 - Shawn gives his initial thoughts on Baha Mar 11:27 - How we find out about mistake rates 13:09 - Are loyalty programs and status a complete sham? 25:06 - The Chase S...
2020-01-0945 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!The FOMO and Stress of Deals, More Vegas Fees, and CardCon Trip ReportEpisode Description In episode 5 we discuss resisting every deal and beating FOMO for your own sanity. We dive into Las Vegas' latest despicable fee and how resort fees in general are getting out of control. Shawn and Mark also give an overview of their week at FinCon and CardCon and why meetups and conferences are important in this space. They also overview their stay at the Park Hyatt in DC, go over some quick deals and there are some outtakes of course! We'd really appreciate if you subscribed to the podcast to get new episodes ev...
2019-09-1249 minMTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!Vegas, Hong Kong, Disney, and Miles to Memories Podcast IntroductionsEpisode Description In the inaugural episode Shawn, Joe, & Mark discuss hacking Las Vegas with Amex FHR credits, the situation in Hong Kong, and why Disney is the "worst vacation ever." Or is it? We finish off the show with introductions and background info on Mark, Joe, and dishwashers. Plus, outtakes! We'd really appreciate if you subscribed to the podcast to get new episodes every week! See the subscription links below. This episode is sponsored by Travel Freely, the MtM recommended tool for tracking & organizing credit cards. Episode Notes 1:43 - A...
2019-08-2247 min