SPG is my favorite program for low category hotel redemptions. They have the most such properties that are interesting throughout the world - even in Western Europe, as you'll see below. Here I list my top 10 - all in category 1 or 2 (2,000 - 4,000 points per night). For reference, here's the SPG award chart: The only difference between weekday and … [Read more...]
My Best Trip – Torres del Paine “W” Hike
I just want to say a few words, then I'll let the pictures speak for themselves. I went to Torres del Paine (TDP) in March 2016 and did the 5-day "W" hike on my own (actually, I stayed an extra day, and am very glad I did). It remains arguably my favorite travel experience to date. My pictures don't do it justice, but they'll give you some ideas. I … [Read more...]
My 10 Favorite Low Category Hilton Redemptions
Update 2 - replaced DoubleTree Melaka (which went up to 10k) and Hampton Inn Fall River (went up to 20k) with DoubleTree Sighisoara and Hampton Inn Farmington. Added 10k option in Vienna. Update - replaced Hampton Inn Mexico City (which went up to 20k/night) with DoubleTree Melaka, which is bookable on points now. My favorite use of hotel points is for low category, … [Read more...]
The Great Paradox of My Travel Aspirations
I have two fundamental travel aspirations: See the world. Get good value out of miles & points. The 2 goals were in unison in my early days of the hobby. Seeing the world meant flying premium cabin to a major destination, staying in a high-value points hotel, and sightseeing in the vicinity. I did this in Hong Kong, Sydney, Bangkok, Paris, Banff - to … [Read more...]
$10 for a Flat Bed in Chicago? I’ll Take It
Technically it's in the suburbs, and admission costs extra, but I was going there anyway so my extra cost was just $10. I was in Chicago for 2 nights a few weekends ago. I had one Hyatt category 4 free night from the Chase Hyatt card, so I stayed at Hyatt Recency Chicago River on Saturday. But I needed a place to stay on Friday. None of my Chicago friends … [Read more...]