 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TODAY 01/29/2019 MAXIMIZING MARRIOTT While there have been no shortage of issues following Marriott's merger with Starwood, members of both Marriott Rewards and SPG now have many more options at their disposal to earn and redeem for award nights, experiences, free flights and more. There are still some great deals to be had — you just need to know where to look. For example, you can:
As the world's largest hotel chain, Marriott now offers nearly 1.3 million rooms spread between some 6,800 properties in over 120 countries — most of which can be booked with points, free night certificates and cold, hard cash. Still, many customers seem just about ready to bail for Hilton, Hyatt or even Wyndham, where the chain's timeshare counterpart is the focus of today's episode of Talking Points with Brian Kelly. While it may seem the grass is greener elsewhere, no loyalty programs are perfect. We'll help guide you through — if you're not onboard with Bonvoy, stay tuned as we dig into your options later this week. -Zach Honig, Editor-at-Large Posts in this newsletter contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit this page.
 One of the least popular airline "innovations" to date won't be making its way to Southwest. CEO Gary Kelly told investors "[that's] not what we do," even as competitor JetBlue recently introduced a no-frills fare of its own. As for free checked bags? That perk's not changing either — you'll still get two without a fee.
 "Are We There Yet?" has arrived! Our new monthly YouTube series features TPG Family editor Summer Hull, aka Mommy Points, and some special guests testing out the top family travel gear. From that suitcase you see little kids riding around the airport to a stroller that doubles as a carseat, we’ll help you determine which products are worthy of your investment.
 Following a similar addition from Amex, Chase is helping take some of the guesswork out of your next credit card application. Now, if you're not eligible to earn a Marriott welcome bonus, the issuer will display a pop-up saying as much, asking if you still want to apply even though you won't be getting a big boost.
 Sometimes it just makes a lot more sense to fly private, as Airbus determined for a recent media trip. Journalists hopped from one site to the next on board the same plane used to ferry hockey players, NBA teams, politicians, rock stars and anyone else willing to charter an all-business-class A319 from Air Canada Jetz.
 You probably already use coupon codes, cash back sites and other offers to save money on most purchases — so, why would you ever pay the asking price for gas? Turns out, there are ways around that, too. See how one TPG contributor used loyalty programs and other perks to save over a grand on payments at the pump. LOUNGE ACCESS After a tourist called the police upon realizing they had been charged nearly $25 for gelato in Florence, we asked readers how they'd handle being subjected to inflated prices abroad. They shared many cautionary tales, but perhaps the most practical solution was posted by Martin M.: "I’m puzzled as to why people don't ask for prices [or a menu] with clear prices before they order? If a restaurant did not have this or provide it, I would walk." Have your own tips to share? Sound off in the TPG Lounge. NEWS YOU CAN USE • Do I Get Elite Night Credits by Earning Platinum on the SPG Luxury Amex? • Latest Talking Points Episode Explains the Ins and Outs of Timeshares with Wyndham Destinations • ANA Is Reportedly Close to Deal for 30 Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft • This Hotel Suite Is Free for Travelers Who Stay Off the Wi-Fi • What Is Hilton Honors Elite Status Worth in 2019? • 9 Ways to Help Your Children Remember Family Trips • There’s a Jazz Festival in a Norwegian Town That’s Famous for Its Views of the Northern Lights • First-Rate First Class: A Review of Korean Air’s 747-8 From Atlanta to Seoul • 11 Times It’s Better to Book American Award Flights Through British Airways • When Will TSA and ATC Workers Get Their Backpay?       You are receiving this email because you opted in at thepointsguy.com. The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities The Points Guy © All rights reserved 2019 |