FAQs, News & Views - Analysis of planes & trains, destinations & accommodations, so you can enjoy your journey in style.
Accor extends ALL points expiry...another 12 months
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
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
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
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
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 Clubby 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
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
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.
Fairmont announces offers showcasing links between its sustainable properties & nature
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
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.
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…
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.
Hyatt members can earn 1,000 bonus AA miles per stay.
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
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.
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
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
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 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.
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 afull 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…
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
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.
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…
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
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
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
PointSaversare available. More information regarding use of these features is in ourcomprehensive
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
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
SLH today launched a collection of destinations curated with an explicit intention for sustainability.
Shangri-La extends status of its Diamond & Jade members until end of 2022 !
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 3flights 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.
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 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…
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…
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
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.
A separate competition will be launched for team members, with prizes including additional annual leave, Lounge memberships, and free
business class flights.
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 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 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.
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
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:
Have your Velocity membership details handy;
Download the My 7-Eleven appand follow the steps to link your Velocity
account to their My 7-Eleven My Card;
Make an eligible purchase from a 7-Eleven convenience store or fuel station and upon payment scan, your Velocity linked My 7-ElevenMy
Card.
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…
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…
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
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
105
157
3015
5025
Qualifying Stays
73
105
2010
40 20
Points
10,0005,000
15,0007,500
30,00015,000
50,00025,000
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
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.
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…
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…
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…
Latest news and views:
* Virgin Atlantic merger with Air France/KLM shelved.
* Alaska Airlines points on sale - handy to fly Qantas at a tasty discount.
Read More…
Black Friday, Cyber Monday deals
Yes it's that time of year again (already !) Strange things happen. 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), luggage and even sun-glasses. 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!
Qantas and Accor have announced a deeper partnership that will see mutual members of their loyalty programs being able to double-dip for
rewards points in the APAC region.
The newly minted crossover feature is scheduled to launch mid-2021.
While similar to other crossover programs (eg Marriott and both Emirates and United; Shangri-La and Singapore Airlines; Hyatt and American
Airlines), it will be the first partnership of its kind between an airline and hospitality group in the Asia Pacific region.
Will it be an attractive feature? Read on for our thoughts.
Congratulations to QANTAS. Today is the centenary of its launch!
Originally the Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Service, it was born as an idea around Winton in Queensland and later moved to
Longreach, although the company was originally registered in Brisbane.
It has grown and evolved to become Australia's iconic international airline, with its headquarters now located in Mascot, near Sydney
Airport.
QANTAS is a member of the OneWorld alliance, which it co-founded in 1998 with American Airlines, British Airways, Canadian Airlines and
Cathay Pacific.
Congratulations to the management and all staff of QANTAS. To survive so long and be a leader in such a competitive industry is an
achievement earned by many folk from the tarmac upwards.
Best wishes for many more and hopefully less tumultuous ones than 2020 which has been overshadowed by the covid-19 crisis and its impact on our world.
To learn more about Qantas' history, you can watch its official video.
Gremlins - apologies for our site being temporarily unavailable.
Apologies to our regular readers. As you likely saw, we had some technical issues in the last few days. They even kept me out of being able to get inside to see what was going on.
Thankfully, with some specialist tech help, the issue has now been found, fixed and shouldn't recur.
Thank you for your patience.
It felt like Gremlins were starting to appear everywhere - maybe it's the time of year?
A pleasant surprise for some Bonvoy members this summer will be the point savings from property re-classifications that have been deferred. There
remain opportunities with 16 properties - if you know where to look.
Read More…
There was an article in Le Figaro (later syndicated through Reuters) saying that Accor was looking closely at IHG with a view to takeover
or merger. How would that look ? Where are the overlaps? What might it mean for the respective programs of Accor Live
Limitless and IHG Rewards Club?
Read More…
2020 Freddie Awards winners - One airline swept the field in its category and one hotel chain that dominated in Europe and APAC is now
gaining recognition in the Americas.
Read More…
This heart-warming short (2 min) video from @VisitScotland.com hits the right note. Times are difficult right now,
but soon we will once again be able to see the folk and places that are near and dear to us. Scotland and its people have not only a
braveheart, but a full and warm heart. The video is a great reminder of what makes Scotland so special.
Read More…
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