points N places

Accor & Qantas commence their dual earning alliance
17 Nov '21

Today marked the launch of the "crossover" alliance between the Accor Live Limitless and Qantas Frequent Flyer programs. 

Under their agreement, you must be a member of both programs, then you can earn points under both programs:

1) from Qantas flights around the world if they hold at least either ALL Gold or QFF Platinum tier status;
2) from stays at Accor properties, regardless of tier status, but only for stays in the APAC region.

Learn more about the benefits for both ALL members & QFF members.

Two Scottish hotels join WorldHotels, with a new one in Phuket slated for end--2022.
15 Nov '21

WorldHotels announced today the addition of three new hotels to the brand’s global portfolio. It has expanded its presences in Scotland by the addition of the Kingsmills Hotel and Ness Walk Hotel in Inverness, to WorldHotels’ Elite and Luxury collections, respectively. In addition, Layan Green Park in Phuket, Thailand will become part of WorldHotels’ Distinctive collection.

Situated in the Scottish Highlands, the Kingsmills Hotel features luxurious accommodations, two stunning indoor restaurants and a heated outdoor Garden Restaurant. The Kingsmills Hotel is also located near five of Scotland’s world-class golf courses, allowing guests to easily access the country’s national game.

Ness Walk is an idyllic five-star retreat just a short distance from Loch Ness. Originally constructed as a 19^th century house, it  is  situated near the North Coast 500, a 516-mile journey set in the Scottish Highlands that provides magnificent views of Scotland’s landscape and lochs.

Guests will be have convenient access to be able to enjoy the stunning Scottish scenery, golf courses and whiskey distilleries, plus more.

In addition to WorldHotels’ growing presence in Scotland, the brand has added Layan Green Park in Bangtao Beach in Phuket, Thailand. The hotel is scheduled to open its doors in December 2022 and will be a four-star property located in Phuket, one of the world’s top vacation destinations.

WorldHotels is owned by Best Western.  You can redeem BW Rewards points for stays at both the Kingsmills Hotel (12,000 per night) and Ness Walk Hotel (28,000 per night).

Six Senses Ibiza - anti-ageing program in a luxury spa retreat
14 Nov '21

Six Senses Ibiza (pictured) is the first sustainable BREEAM certified resort and residential community in the Balearics, occupying a breathtaking position in Xarraca Bay. It has teamed with RoseBar to offer a residential anti-ageing health & wellness program.

At the time of writing, prices per night were from EUR 595 in early December 2021 and EUR 925 in mid-June 2022, including airport transfers.  Alternatively, in both cases, 150,000 IHG Rewards points.

If you buy IHG Rewards during a promotion, you could enjoy a wonderful, luxury break to invest in your personal health & wellness - possibly the best investment you can make!

IHG Rewards extends Elite Status & Points expiration
13 Nov '21

Once again, IHG Rewards is extending the elite status that members earned in 2019. This time the extension is good until February 2023.

Previously, elite statuses were extended through January 2022.

In addition, IHG is extending some free night certificates and its pause on the expiration of points until 31 December 2022.

Easy way to book your next skiing holiday at any one of 6 beautiful destinations on the French alps
13 Nov '21

Feeling the temperature dropping in Britain and wanting to organise your next ski vacation?
Wish there was an easier way?

Only 1 operator offers all-inclusive rail to ski packages that depart from London so you can have everyone and everything arrive together at your chosen French skiing destination.

They make it easy to do it all online with only 5 clicks.

Bonvoy bonus points promotions - 45% bonus when you buy
13 Nov '21

Bonvoy members receive a 45% bonus when you buy or gift 2,000 or more points now through 8 December, 2021.

This equates to a price of USD 8.62 per thousand.  Still higher than our valuation of USD 7.50 per thousand, but a relatively cheap opportunity for small quantities to top up a balance to get you your next planned stay. T&C's apply, which are shown when you login to your account and buy Bonvoy points through the manager of the Bonvoy program.

Ritz-Carlton Yachts now participating in Marriott Bonvoy
12 Nov '21

Bonvoy members can soon be "putting on the Ritz" at sea!      . 

Marriott Bonvoy has announced that the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection joined the Marriott Bonvoy program, effective from 9 November 2021.

Bonvoy members will be able to earn and redeem points for voyages and associated hotel stays from 6 May 2022 when booked through Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

This is a unique option for Bonvoy members.  Voyages at the Ritz-Carlton level will be reminiscent of the hey-days of luxury cruising.  Is it a valuable benefit for Bonvoy members? Read More…

Accor extends ALL points expiry...another 12 months
12 Nov '21

Accor has announced a further extension for the expiry of its ALL members points.

Back in March this year, ALL points expiry was extended to 15 December 2021.  Ths has now been further extended to 15 December 2022

This complements the tier status extension that was announced in October (also to December 2022).

A welcome development for Victorians, who have just come out of lockdown and in time for summer breaks.  Also for members in the Americas, where Accor's footprint is smaller and there is less opportunity to earn points to extend the life of accrued points.

bonza New Australian Domestic Airline On Track For 2Q2022 takeoff
4 Nov '21

Australian start-up airline Bonza says more than 35 airports have so far expressed interest in hosting its flights as it look to finalise its domestic network in readiness to start services in the second quarter of 2022.

The start-up is seeking regulatory approval to start services on routes to regional and leisure destinations.  

Bonza believes there is scope for a new ultra-low-cost entrant in the Australian market despite the existing battle for market share between Qantas, Regional Express and Virgin Australia. 

Its stated plan is to fly “point-to-point” on leisure routes not serviced by the 3 incumbents, using a fleet of two to three new 737 MAXs limited to a handful of services each week.

It’s a very competitive market so our fingers are crossed for them.

(photo courtesy of Bonza Airlines)

Alaska Airlines & BA Expand Codeshare Routes
4 Nov '21

Alaska Airlines continues to deepen its integration into the OneWorld network.  

Since joining the OneWorld alliance on March 31 this year , it has quickly moved to forge partnerships with fellow members Qatar Airways and Iberia Airlines.

It now has expanded its codeshare routes with long-term partner British Airways to 16 additional markets.  The new destinations connect its network beyond Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles to BA’s nonstop service from London Heathrow.

These BA codeshares combined with the new partnerships of Qatar Airways and Iberia Airlines together with the existing partnerships with American Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Finnair combined will offer 16 daily international flights to Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles – enabling seamless connectivity to Alaska’s comprehensive network up and down the West Coast.  

Alaska and its regional partners offer overseas passengers more than 120 destinations across the United States and to Mexico, Canada and Costa Rica. So this development extends BA's reach into the Americas.

The ability to earn (and burn) miles with these partners provides great flexibility for Alaska Mileage members and a well connected network into Europe.

2021 Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals
3 Nov '21

Yes it's that time of year again (already !)   Strange things happen around the last Friday of November.  Including some amazing offers for all manner of deals.  

We list ones that offer exceptional value for travellers, from special rewards points offers, discounted accommodation, to sales on items to make your travel more pleasurable, such as noise-cancelling headphones (great on planes or trains) & luggage. New offers will be added as we find them (so make a note to revisit our page).  

All are available for a very limited time.  We hope you don't miss out!

Hyatt acquisition positions it as leader in all-inclusive resort
3 Nov '21

Hyatt yesterday confirmed that it has comp[leted the acquisition of Apple Leisure Group (ALG).

1) Hyatt is doubling its global resorts footprint through the addition of ALG’s AMR Collection brand portfolio, which comprises approximately 100 hotels and resorts operating in 10 countries.

2) Hyatt now offers one of the largest collections of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world, including new destinations for Hyatt such as Acapulco, Curaçao, the Canary Islands, Menorca and St. Martin.

3) Hyatt has added properties in 11 new European markets and expanded its European brand footprint by 60%.

In addition there are

• Unlimited Vacation Club by AMR™ Collection, an exclusive membership club whose members enjoy preferred rates and other benefits at participating AMR Collection properties
• ALG Vacations®, one of the largest packaged vacation providers and leisure travel distribution platforms in North America serving the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean.

The acquisition boosts Hyatt's presence in areas in key markets, boosting benefits and attractive destinations for World of Hyatt members.

What remains to be seen is the integration into the program and the points costs. Hyatt has been successful in integrating SLH properties (which are not part of Hyatt owned subsidiary), so we anticipate this should go smoothly.

United's Mile Play promotion - earn bonus miles by completing tasks via MilePlay promotion
2 Nov '21

United has just launched the latest version of its “MilePlay” promotion.

Through 31 January 2022, eligible MileagePlus members can earn bonus miles by completing various tasks (typically set based on their flying history).

Note that

• You need to logon to your account & register for the promotion by January 31, 2022.
• All promotion activities must be completed by January 31, 2022.
• Only activities booked after registration are eligible for the promotion.
• Allow six to eight weeks after the end of the promotion for the bonus miles to post to your account.

i Prefer offering TopTier status for stays before year-end
31 Oct '21

i Prefer is running a Where Next 2021 campaign for travelers keen for a break before year-end.

If you book and stay of at least 2 nights prior to 31 December, you receive 
1. daily breakfast for 2;
2. upgrade to Elite Member (top tier) status for the duration of your stay; and
3. a travel experience unique to the hotel of your choice.

This is an attractive offer, especially for non-members, as you can sign up immediately and later have a taste of the benefits available to top tier IPrefer members.

Learn more about the wide range of properties participating in this iPrefer Where Next? offer and its T&C's.  There are also ongoing offers avalable to IPrefer members.

Fairmont announces offers showcasing links between its sustainable properties & nature
30 Oct '21

Since its creation in 1907, Fairmont has developed magnificent destinations from the big city sights of New York to the spectacular landscape of Canada’s Rocky Mountains.

Fairmont was the first luxury hotel brand to adopt a global sustainability program (now incorporated into Accor’s dedicated program, Planet 21).  Today, Fairmont has a portfolio of over 80 properties where sustainable development has been a key element.  

With this campaign, the brand reveals breathtaking images that connect natural landscapes to Fairmont destinations in the desert, the mountains and tallgrass prairies.

Over the coming months, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts around the world will unveil “The Grandest of Escapes Exclusively by Fairmont” - a series of offers that through a series of "unique and exciting experiences that will breathe new life into adventurers’ souls and the need to reconnect with nature”.

Accor ALL members and Fairmont fans should keep their eyes peeled for future announcements…

Marriott (again) extends elite status, Free Night Awards & other elite perks
29 Oct '21

Despite the closet points devaluation associated with a move to dynamic pricing, it's not all bad news coming from Marriott Bonvoy.

Points Expiration — paused through 31 December 2022. At that time, your points will only expire if your account has been inactive for at least 24 months. Diarise to buy the minimum points required to "refresh" them then.

Elite Status extended -—Your 2019 earned status, already renewed through February 2022, or your 2020 status, will be extended through February 2023.

Suite Night Awards with an expiration date of December 31, 2021, will be extended for an additional six months — to 30 June 2022.

Free Night Awards — also extended to 30 June 2022.  From early 2022, you will be able to add points to your FNA to redeem for higher value, providing greater redemtion flexibility.

Nice and welcome changes given the lack of travel due to covid-19......but only temporary.

Bonvoy bombshell
27 Oct '21

Marriott Bonvoy has dropped a bombshell !

It has just announced that the Bonvoy program will move from award tables to dynamic pricing for award stays, where the amount of points you pay is based on the demand and cash price of the room.  

While the devil is in the  details (which haven't yet been fully released), this is similar to the pricing model used in Hilton Honors and IHG Rewards.

Thankfully, the change isn't immediate.  For details... Read More…

Aadvantage drops EQM's, segments & qualifying spend for simpler Loyalty Points approach
26 Oct '21

American Airlines today announced that effective from 1 January 2022, its loyalty program will move from their current approach to AAdvantage Loyalty Points: a unified program where each eligible mile earned equals one loyalty point.

Members earn Loyalty Points whenever they fly, use an co-branded credit card for purchases, or earn eligible miles with AAdvantage partners.



A general member will earn 5 base points per eligible dollar spent. Loyalty Points will also determine tier status.

30,000 points = Gold Status = 40% tier bonus
75,000 points = Platinum Status = 60% tier bonus
125,000 points = Platinum Pro Status = 80% tier bonus
200,000 points = Executive Platinum Status = 120% tier bonus.


The elite status calendar will also be undergoing some changes:

• The status qualification year will no longer be based on a calendar year. Instead, it will begin on March 1 and run through the last day of February of the next year.
• Elite status will be valid through March 31 the following year.

Read More…

Hyatt members can earn 1,000 bonus AA miles per stay.
25 Oct '21

World of Hyatt members can earn 1,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles per qualifying stay for a limited time.

The offer varies slightly by region, but you must be a member of both World of Hyatt and American Airlines AAdvantage and register for the offer using both membership numbers..  The differences are:

* 130 hotels in 30+ countries across Europe, Middle East, Africa and India participating.  You must complete your qualifying stays by December 19, 2021

* 190 US Hyatt properties participating and you must register by 15 December and qualifying stays must occur between 1 November, 2021, and 31 January, 2022.

You can see the lists of participating hotels after you register. Read on for more details on the offer targetted for you and T&C's.

Hyatt peak/off-peak pricing preparing to launch - Act NOW
22 Oct '21

Hyatt peak/off peak pricing is about to launch.  This change was announced in December 2019, but implementation was deferred in March 2021 and again later due to the impact of the global covid-19 crisis.  

Hyatt will enact these changes on Tuesday, October 26, 2021. If you have been meaning to book a Hyatt property, it may be time to do it now, rather than later. Details and suggested strategies remain the same as when  we first looked at Hyatt peak/off peak pricing in detail. 

In summary:

• peak pricing will only affect nights starting 1 March, 2022.
• Award stays will remain at the Standard rate for nights stayed through 28 February, 2022.
• The new structure applies to all award nights, regardless of room type.
• Points + Cash awards will also use the Hyatt off-peak and peak pricing.
• Free Night Award certificates, which are category based, will not be affected by these changes.  These certificates are earned either though holding a branded credit card or Milestone Rewards.

More details on the Points + Cash awards and Hyatt Milestone Rewards can be found in our complete Guide to the World of Hyatt.

Australian ALL members can earn 3x points from Hertz
21 Oct '21

Australian members of ALL can earn 3x the normal number of points when renting a car through Hertz.

Book before 30 November and rent before 15 December 2021 to enjoy:

* 15% off the base rental rate

* triple rewards points.

When you make your booking you must quote:

CDP code:   840267
PC code:     203530 and provide your ALL membership number.

Read more to go to the Hertz site to make your booking. Read More…

Accor changes rules so ALL points are now easier to retain
21 Oct '21

Good news for Accor Live Limitless (ALL) members.

Now any points earned will extend the life of all your points.

Previously points expired after 365 days unless you had made an eligible stay or participated in the Accor Dining Offer.  

Points may be earned from stays, shopping with retailers on the Accor portal, using one of their partners' products (eg car rental with Europcar or Hertz) or dining in one of the many participating restaurants, bars and cafes.

500 Good Reasons to try new Hyatt hotels
20 Oct '21

World of Hyatt members can earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying nights at new Hyatt hotels around the world this year, within the first few months of opening. 

• Earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying nights at new hotels during specified offer periods
• There’s no need to register and you can earn on top of other offers.

Currently there are 26 hotels participating in this offer, with differing offer periods and more are being added. Pictured is the patio at the Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun, one of the participating hotels.

For more information and T&C's. see the Hyatt 500 Reasons page. For more information regarding the program. see our complete guide to World of Hyatt.

Hilton recognised as #3 workplace in the world
20 Oct '21

For the 6th year in a row, Hilton has been recognised as one of the world's top 25 workplaces. 

Hilton ranked #3 on the 2021 Fortune Magazine / Worlds Best Workplaces awards announced today and remains the only hospitality company on the list.

Congratulations to Hilton, its managers and team members !

For travellers, my experience is that happy employees result in exceptional service. To experience this yourself, take advantage of the latest Hilton Honors promotions.

For more information on its loyalty program, see our complete Guide to Hllton Honors.

2021 World Spa Awards
19 Oct '21

It seems October is the month for Travel Industry awards.

The 2021 World Spa Awards were also announced tis month.

There were far too many categories for a full list of winners here, so we have selected a few that you should consider for your next escape.

Learn which are the best spa's by country and region and which brands feature.  Hint: Anantara, Banyan Tree, Kempinski, Mandarin Oriental, One&Only. Six Senses, St Regis and Waldorf Astoria. are on the list. Read More…

Warmer Horizons await at Iberostar resorts
18 Oct '21

Get some sun on your bones!  Escape the winter blues with a holiday at a resort in sunnier climes. 
We look at a smaller chain and Iberostar Horizons, its simple to use loyalty program to see what it can do for you. Read More…

Embrace the Unforgettable - earn EXTRA POINTS for stays with Marriott brands
15 Oct '21

For Australian Bonvoy members, Marriott has launched a new promotion whereby members can earn extra points per stay.  

You must register first, then you can earn an extra 1,500 points for each stay at a Marriott property, or 3,000 points for stays at the newly launched All-inclusive by Marriott resorts.

You must register by 28 November, 2021 then book for stays between now and 12 December, 2021.

T&C's apply, which you can find when you register for Embrace the Unforgettable 2021

Hilton Honors latest promotion - buy points with 100% bonus - ends 7 December
14 Oct '21

Hilton Honors has launched its latest promotion, where you can purchase up to 160,000 points and they will match it 1 for 1 with 100% bonus points.  

This offers good value at an effective price of USD 5.00/ thousand, which is less than our valuation of USD 5.50/ thousand - especially for Elite Tier members who combine this offer with their 5th night free benefit for a handy discount for their next lovely stay.
 
T&C's apply, including that you must buy:

• at least 15,000 points
• before 7 December 2021
• no more than 160,000 points - double the usual limit.

Click below to see our analysis and recommendation for the Hilton Honors 100% bonus points offer. Read More…

So.Much.Christmas by Gaylord Hotels
13 Oct '21

For the coming holiday season, Gaylord Hotels (a Marriott brand) is offering a variety of family-friendly holiday packages "So.Much.Christmas" with events and original experiences at each of its five resort locations located in the US. Pictured is Gaylord Rockies.

Dates for stays vary slightly across the properties but generally must be from mid-November through 2 January 2022 (31 December 2021 @ Gaylord National). 

Bookings are open now, so if you're looking for a magical holiday break with your little ones, this offer may be perfect for you.  Especially if you book before October 17 to Stay 2 nights & Save 15%, or Stay 3 nights, Save 20%.

Hit the button below to learn more and for the T&C's.

Note that Marriott is one of our advertisers and should you use the link on this page to make a booking, then at no additional cost to you we may receive a small compensation. You don't have to use our links, but we appreciate your support when you do. Read More…

Marriott Bonvoy Get Vaxed, Win Big competition
12 Oct '21

Marriott Bonvoy has a competition for Australian members fully vaccinated against covid-19. There are 5 prizes with stays at each of 9 Marriott (category 5 or 6) properties in Australia and Fiji. Ensure you don't miss out…

Marriott launches all-inclusive brand
7 Oct '21

Yesterday, Marriott launched a new brand for all-inclusive resort stays -  All-inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy.  

At launch there are 30 destinations in Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Mexico, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Saint Lucia, with more in the pipeline.  Royalton, Saint Lucia is pictured.

20 of the initial 30 destinations are Blue Diamond resorts (the fastest growing resort chain in the Carribbean). These resorts will continue to be independently owned and operated by Blue Diamond Resorts under Marriott's Autograph Collection name.  They will also be integrated into the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, providing very attractive new options for Bonvoy members.  Although the Upgrade Awards, Cash + Points Awards, Suite Night Awards, and Instant Redemption Awards features of the Marriott Bonvoy program are not available, the Stay for 5  pay for 4, Points Advance and PointSavers are available. More information regarding use of these features is in our comprehensive guide to Marriott Bonvoy

Guests may make bookings through the resort websites, the All-inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy portal, or marriott.com (which must be used for awards bookings).

Alaska Airlines and Iberia launch new codeshare agreement
6 Oct '21

Alaska Airlines yesterday further cemented its place as a member of the OneWorld alliance. 

Following on from its codeshare agreement announced in July 2021 with Qatar Airlines, Alaska has further expanded its global reach with the announcement of a new codeshare agreement with Iberia Airlines, providing flyers with exciting and convenient travel options.

The agreement allows passengers on Iberia to book travel and easily connect to more than 40 routes throughout Alaska's network effective October 7, 2021. Iberia operates three weekly return flights between Madrid and Los Angeles, using Airbus A-330-200s (and a seasonal service between San Francisco and Barcelona).  Iberia passengers can now connect to more than 20 additional routes on the West Coast and Hawaii served by Alaska Airlines, including Anchorage, Fresno, Honolulu, Kona, Las Vegas, Portland, Reno-Tahoe, Seattle-Tacoma and Salt Lake City.

The partnership enables Alaska's Mileage Plan and Iberia Plus members to earn miles on each other's flights while enjoying reciprocal elite benefits, including preferred seat selection; priority check-in, security clearance and boarding; lounge access; and extra baggage allowance.

SLH Considerate Collection - sustainable with intent
5 Oct '21

SLH today launched a collection of destinations curated with an explicit intention for sustainability.

More details are in our complete Guide to SLH Invited

Shangri-La extends status of its Diamond & Jade members until end of 2022 !
4 Oct '21

Shangri-La's Golden Circle has extended tier status for all of its Diamond and Jade members globally. With this extension, all Golden Circle Diamond and Jade members will maintain their current tier status and benefits until 31 December 2022.

American Express Platinum (multiple jurisdictions) members had the Golden Circle Jade status benefit discontinued on 31 March 2021, so this tier extension is definitely welcome news. Golden Circle members typically need the following stays and nights to qualify or maintain their status in the year ahead - Diamond: 50 Nights or 25 Stays or Jade: 20 Nights or 10 Stays.

But the Shangri-La status does not just have benefits by itself, but also, it has many associated perks which come with it, including:

1. Short-cut to Star Alliance Gold status - Shangri-La Jade-tier and Diamond-tier members receive instant KrisFlyer Silver status once they join up their Shangri-La Golden Circle and Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer accounts. After that, Shangri-La Jade Members need to take 3 flights on Singapore Airlines, or just 1 flight as a Diamond member to receive KrisFlyer Gold status.

Once you have KrisFlyer Gold status, you have the equivalent of Star Alliance Gold status, which means you unlock the associated benefits on flights on Star Alliance members across the globe.

2. Enjoy Taj InnerCircle Gold status - Under the terms of a strategic alliance between Shangri-La Golden Circle and Taj Inner Circle, there is an automatic status match between the tiers of the programmes.  Golden Circle Jade members match to InnerCircle Gold and Golden Circle Diamond members match to InnerCircle Platinum (and vice-versa).

While Taj InnerCircle is mostly an Indian hotel company’s loyalty programme, Taj also has hotels in various countries worldwide, such as the US, UAE and UK.

Shangri-La will also waive the cancellation charges regardless of booking channel for all guests, if cancelled more than 24 hours prior to arrival date. The hotels reserve the right to contact all inbound international guests at least 30 days prior to their arrival dates to confirm or cancel their reservations.

These changes are part of the Shangri-La Cares program. 

2021 Airline of the Year - Skytrax
30 Sep '21

 
The 2021 Skytrax World Airline Awards winners were announced this week.  ....and the winner of the 2021 Airline of the Year goes to...Qatar Airways.
Singapore Airlines ranked 2nd, and ANA All Nippon Airways in 3rd place. Qantas was ranked 8th

Qatar Airways also received the awards for the World’s Best Business Class, the World’s Best Business Class Seat and the Best Airline in the Middle East.

Singapore Airlines, ranked No 2 worldwide, won the top accolade for the World’s Best Cabin Crew and was also honoured with awards for the World’s Best First Class, the Best Airline in Asia and the World’s Best First Class Seat.

ANA All Nippon Airways maintained its No 3 global ranking from last year and also won the World’s Best Airport Services award. Winning the 2021 award as the World’s Cleanest Airline is a particularly important success during the global pandemic.

Best First Class class was awarded to Singapore Airlines, with Lufthansa and Emirates second and third respectively.

The rankings for Best Business Class were identical to the overall rankings - Qatar, follwed by Singapore and then ANA.

Virgin Atlantic was named the World's Best Premium Economy Class airline, ahead of Singapore Airlines in 2nd place and Lufthansa in 3rd position.

For more details, or to see how your favourites fared, click below. Read More…

Cathay Pacific to integrate Marco Polo Club and Asia Miles
19 Jul '21

Cathay Pacific recently announced that it will integrate its Asia Miles program (used for award flights) with its Marco Polo Club program (broader rewards and tier benefits).  Over the coming months, Cathay Pacific will be rolling out a range of new offers – and these will culminate in a refreshed program ("Cathay")  in the first half of 2022.
We will provide more details as they are released, but for comparison follow the link to see an infographic summarising the Cathay Pacific programs as at June 2021. Read More…

Taj Hotels - best hotel brand for 2021
29 Jun '21

In its most recent annual report on the most valuable and strongest hotel brands, BrandDirectory found Taj Hotels to be the strongest hotel brand for 2021. This provides a huge vote of confidence for travellers.

According to the report, Taj is renowned for its world-class customer service and the luxury hotel chain scores very well for consideration, familiarity, recommendation, and reputation especially across its home market of India.

Extending the appeal further through Asia, Warmer Welcomes is an alliance between the loyalty programs of Taj and Shangri-La, adding versatility. Read More…

IHG launches competition to win 1 whole year of free stays
23 Jun '21

Today, as part of the launch of its "Department of Epic" program, IHG Hotels & Resorts announced a contest that will give one lucky US-based traveller the chance to win back a year of missed adventures with 365 days worth of epic hotel experiences at various IHG locations around the world, including InterContinental, Kimpton and Holiday Inn Express.

Pictured above is the InterContinental Bora Bora resort and Thalasso Spa - just one of many possibilities.

Read on for more details and how to enter. Read More…

Free Virgin Australia flights on offer for Australians who receive jab
23 Jun '21

Virgin Australia will join Qantas in offering free flights as an incentive for Australians to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Under the airline’s VA-X & Win promotion, there'll be one major prize of 1 million Velocity Frequent Flyer points, "dozens of free business class flights" as well as a range of other prizes.

The competition will launch later this year, once all Australian adults are expected to be eligible for the vaccine.  You need to register to enter the Virgin Australia VA-X & Win Competition.

A separate competition will be launched for team members, with prizes including additional annual leave, Lounge memberships, and free business class flights.

Hilton launches family-friendly booking feature
18 Jun '21

For travellers with young families wanting to book a holiday, Hilton has launched a new family-friendly booking feature.

Confirmed Connecting Rooms will enable individuals to easily book and instantly confirm at least two connecting rooms (at participating hotels, which I expect will increase as the technology is rolled-out).  This will reduce the potential stress both at the time of booking adn during your stay, as anyone who has holidayed with particularly a younger family will appreciate.

While I see it as ideal for young families, it is also a boon for other multi-generational holidays, friend groups, wedding attendees and other travel parties who wish to stay near one another rather than potentially be spread across multiple floors.  

In the past there have always been many benefits to staying in connecting guest rooms—but the booking process wasn’t always seamless.  

Hilton seems to have overcome this with a smart, easy-to-use solution.  Hopefully others will follow Hilton's lead.
For more details, or to make a booking at participating hotels with Hilton Confirmed Connecting Rooms, use the link below.
   Read More…

Marriott Bonvoy - breakfast + earn double points for APAC stays prior to 31 December 2021
14 Jun '21

Marriott Bonvoy has an Earn, Eat, Enjoy promotion to 'Holiday Here This Year' for Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Samoa.  Book now using the Promotional Code: B1818 and for stays completed by 31 December 2021, you receive:

* 2X Marriott Bonvoy points;
* breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children (up to age 12);
* daily hotel credit to use at restaurants & bars.

You can see the T&C's or make bookings using the link below. Read More…

Alaska Airlines and Qatar Airlines building ties
14 Jun '21

Alaska and Qatar code-sharing
Alaska Airlines and Qatar Airlines have applied to codeshare on a number of routes operating in the Americas. Under the proposal, most routes are out of Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles with direct flights from Doha into those 3 "hub" cities..  The code-sharing opens up routes for Qatar into Mexico and Hawaii.  For Alaska Airlines, it demonstrates its commitment as a new member of the OneWorld alliance and also provides a handy feeder into its US network.  For more details, use the link below.

Qatar offer discount to Alaska MP members
Qatar Airways has launched a new coupon discount offer for Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members.  You must book prior to 11 July 2021 and travel is to be completed by 11 July 2022. You can save $63 to $550 on ex-US itineraries depending on the class of service and whether a one-way or return.

• The promo code ‘MPMEMBERS’ must be entered at the time of flight search.
• The promo code is valid for bookings on all Qatar Airways operated itineraries worldwide originating from the United States only.
• Promo code value on Economy Class tickets:
  •  $125 on return itineraries
  •  $63 on one-way itineraries
• Promo code value on Business Class tickets:
  •  $550 on return itineraries
  •  $275 on one-way itineraries

Read More…

Alaska Airlines Ceasing Emirates Partnership
7 Jun '21

Alaska Airlines is adjusting its partnerships as part of its intergration into the OneWorld Alliance.  As part of that, Alaska Airlines will cease its partnership with Emirates on July 31, 2021.  

Through 31 July 2021, MVP Gold and MVP Gold 75K members flying on Emirates on a paid ticket, no matter the class, will receive lounge access at the Emirates Business Class flagship lounge in Dubai International Airport (DXB).

There remains a small window of opportunity.  Award redemptions on Emirates are available through July 31, 2021. For future travel, changes made to a booked award on Emirates on or after August 1, 2021, will require cancellation of the award and re-booking on a different Alaska Airlines partner.

Perhaps unsurprisingly given it is another OneWorld member, award bookings for Qatar will become available in August 2021.

Earn Velocity points at 7-Eleven
6 Jun '21

Velocity has welcomed 7-Eleven as a new partner.  Velocity members will now be able to earn points when purchasing fuel or convenience items at any of the 700+ convenience stores located around Australia.

This will provide an easy way for Velocity's 10 million members to boost their points balance, in anticipation of when we can more easily take to the skies again.

Velocity members will earn:

• 2 Points per $1 on eligible 7-Eleven in-store purchases;
• 2 Points per litre on premium fuel at 7-Eleven; and
• 1 Point per litre on regular fuel at 7-Eleven.

Plus, Velocity members will earn 711 bonus Points on their first eligible purchase at 7-Eleven made by 28 June 2021.

For Velocity members to take advantage of this partnership, you will need to:

1. Have your Velocity membership details handy;
2. Download the My 7-Eleven app and follow the steps to link your Velocity account to their My 7-Eleven My Card;
3. Make an eligible purchase from a 7-Eleven convenience store or fuel station and upon payment scan, your Velocity linked My 7-Eleven My Card.

Accor Qantas
6 Jun '21

Qantas announced plans on May 31st to giveaway a suite of mega prizes to Australians who get the COVID-19 vaccine, including unlimited travel for a year.  This is in addition to the announcement a week earlier that it would offer frequent flyer points along with travel vouchers and status credits to Australians who get inoculated.  It is understood the options being considered by Qantas include giving people who get both their two COVID-19 jabs up to 1000 frequent flyer points, flight vouchers towards domestic and international flights, and status credits, which allow people to move into high Frequent Flyer tiers.

Any reward would be available to people who had already received their jabs and the program would run until the end of 2021 when the vaccine rollout is due to be completed; the details are yet to be completed. Now, the national carrier has launched a further incentive scheme which it hopes will boost vaccination rates and help get state and international borders reopened permanently.

“We’re looking at having 10 mega-prizes, at least one for each state or territory, where a family of four can have unlimited free travel for a year on the Qantas and Jetstar networks,” CEO Alan Joyce revealed on Channel 7’s Sunrise program.

The trips would be in economy class and each of the ten winners.  “In addition to that, the Accor Group have come on board and they’re offering one million Accor Points, which gives free accommodation at 400 hotels and resorts across the country.”

Joyce said the program would launch in July, "will include anybody that has already been vaccinated (and) will apply to anybody that's vaccinated through to the end of 2021."

“We have a vested interest in this, we want to do everything we can to ensure the borders domestically open and stay open and that we get international up and running,” he explained.

The airline has consistently said that it will require all passengers to be vaccinated when it restarts international flights beyond New Zealand.

More Australians vaccinated means more potential travellers making bookings.

While the moves may not be entirely altruistic, I think both companies are to be commended for “putting their money where their mouth is” and not just relying on Government to provide support for the ailing sector.

It’s understood that vaccinated Australians will be able to claim their rewards and enter to win a mega-prize through the Qantas app from July.

Don’t be surprised to see if this coincides with the launch of the Qantas/Accor dual points earning (crossover) capability that was announced in November 2020 as part of a closer strategic relationship between the companies.  This too was scheduled to launch mid-2021 and will be the first partnership of its kind between an airline and hospitality group in the Asia Pacific region. Read More…

Points Advance Policy Tweaked by Marriott Bonvoy 
29 May '21

Marriott Bonvoy is adding new restrictions to Points Advance reservations, intended to address members making  speculative bookings.  This will benefit other members, as there should now be more rooms available. Read More…

Hyatt Introduces 'Explor-cations' - More Than 40 Specially Curated Summer Experiences
29 May '21

Gradually travel restrictions are being eased, enabling travel locally, or within defined "travel bubbles". Available at selected  locations, Hyatt have curated one-of-a-kind offerings to enjoy during summer stays to unwind, learn and explore while also fostering a genuine connection. Read More…

Best Western Rewards elite levels at double speed in 2021. Perhaps leverage into another program
13 Mar '21

Best Western makes elite status in its Best Western Rewards program easier to attain for 2021.  Requirements have been halved for 2021, so you get there twice as fast!  

New Qualifications for 2021*
Nights		10  5	15  7	30  15	50  25
Qualifying Stays		7   3	10  5	20  10	40  20
Points		10,000  5,000	15,000  7,500	30,000  15,000	50,000  25,000

There will be no downgrades in elie tier levels through January 31, 2022.

 If you attain a new elite tier level in 2021, you will maintain that tier level through March 31, 2023.

The perks for elite tiers in Best Western Rewards aren't the most compelling (although breakfast is included).  However if you stay primarily in budget/family oriented accommodation it can work well for you.

The program does work very well for Australian travellers staying outside the major city centres.  Regional centres usually offer at least one option, whereas the major chains may not offer anything (different in the US I know).  For these travellers and similar, it can make a lot of sense to accumulate BWR points.

You can always later leverage your BWR tier status into a similar tier in another program.  See here for more details on what you might achieve with a status match from your current BWR tier status.

New Year reflections for 2021
1 Jan '21

Happy New Year !

last year was a tough one globally with the health and wellbeing of thousands of people impacted.  Our thoughts are with those who have had family and friends touched by this pandemic and also to the front-line healthcare workers who are tirelessly working to keep people safe.  Without you/them our lives would be so much worse.

New Years is a time of reflection for me.  Personally and work-wise.

My initial thoughts for pointsNplaces over for the next 12 months are to post more points program guides (including some very good smaller programs that don't receive the coverage they deserve), more ideas on enhancing your use of points and (as more freedom and opportunities start to be available) destinations.  

I am also tweaking the layout gradually, so this will evolve over time.

I also intend to start adding Airline program guides.  This hasn't been a high priority for last year with the reduced travel due to lockdowns around the world.

I am also contemplating a list of destinations to see and plan for in anticipation of travel restrictions being eased during 2021.  Both short-term and perhaps a "bucket list" too.

But I would also like to know your thoughts.  

Are there any items you'd like to see new articles for?  Even if combining existing content - comparisons of programs for example.

I am open to all ideas that you will find interesting and relevant.

If you would like to make any suggestions/requests (all appreciated), please drop us an email using the "contact us" page.

Best wishes for a happy 2021 and safe travels, no matter how near or far.

Start 2021 with a boost- save up to 40% at selected SLH destinations ! Must book by Jan 3rd.
27 Dec '20

SLH is one of our favoured programs and for a short time, you can save up to 40% at 100 SLH destinations!  Get some sun on your bones at Viceroy Bali, Huvafen Fushi in the Maldives, Aleenta or Keemala resorts in Phuket, La Casa Que Canta in Mexico or the Heritage Le Telfair Golf and Wellness resort in Mauritius (pictured above, sourced from Leonardo Worldwide Corporation) .

Perhaps a stay in a location that has an interesting history in itself, like either the luxurious Fortress Resort and Spa in Sri Lanka or the Tom Tom Suites at the Old Franciscan House in Istanbul.

For fans of snowsports, there are options like the Kristiana, Lech in Austria.

So, you're bound to find something that will be a memorable stay.

Act soon to ensure that you don't miss out.  Note that you must book by 3 January 2021 for stays until the end of June 2021.  Other Terms and Conditions apply, so be sure to read them on the page that this article links to. Read More…

Hilton Honors - 50% off if you buy this holiday season
4 Dec '20

Get twice as many HIlton Honors points when you buy or gift at least 10,000 points before 31 December 2020. That's a whopping 50% discount !  

The annual limit on the number of points you can purchase has been temporarily increased to 160,000 - and the bonus points don't count towards this limit.

This brings the purchase price down to USD 5 per thousand. What could you do with this?  Read on to learn more. Read More…

Buy or gift Bonvoy points this holiday season and save 33%
3 Dec '20

Get 50% more Marriott Bonvoy points when you buy or gift at least 2,000 points before 22 December 2020. That's a 33% discount !  

The annual limit on the number of points you can purchase has been temporarily increased to 150,000 - and the bonus points don't count towards this limit.

This brings the purchase price down to USD 8.33 per thousand. What could you do with this?  Read on to learn more. Read More…