Points Talk®: Your Travel Dreams, Made Possible by Points

Picture this: rooms with sweeping ocean views, sandy beaches at your doorstep, and impeccable service from a team that seems to know what you want before you even ask. Now, imagine enjoying all this luxury at a rate of zero dollars per night. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, we made it happen at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, and we're ready to spill all the details. In our latest adventure, each of us checked into this slice of paradise, leveraging our points and miles for a stay that didn't break the bank. From Salt Lake City to Houston, we navigated the world of airline points, dodging those sky-high prices for direct flights. And then, there was the resort itself – a marvel built into the cliffs, offering breathtaking views and private plunge pools in every room. It's luxury redefined, but accessible luxury, thanks to our trusty points and miles strategy. Our days were filled with the kind of activities that make you pinch yourself to make sure you're not dreaming. From private cocktail classes that turned us into mixology masters to unforgettable whale-watching excursions, every moment was a blend of thrill and relaxation. And the service? Unparalleled. Whether it was the daily delivery of chips and guac to our rooms or the seamless handling of special requests, the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos made us feel like royalty. This trip was more than just a getaway; it was a testament to the power of points and miles in unlocking experiences we once thought were out of reach. If you're curious about how we do it, how you can do it too, and all the mesmerizing details of our stay at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, you need to listen to our latest episode. It's not just a story of travel; it's a guide to living your luxury travel dreams on a budget. So, are you ready to turn your travel fantasies into reality without emptying your bank account? Hit play to listen to the full episode. Let us take you on a journey to Los Cabos, where luxury meets affordability, all thanks to the magic of travel points and miles. Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links From This Episode: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal: https://www.waldorfastorialoscabospedregal.com/ Cabo Transfers: https://www.cabotransfers.com/ Cabo San Lucas Tours and Activities: https://cabotrek.com/ Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction to the Bougie Hotel Experience 00:53 Traveling to Cabo: Flights and Points 03:18 Booking Tips and Tricks 04:08 Booking Experiences: The Good, The Bad, The Unexpected 09:18 Arriving at the Resort: First Impressions 13:49 How to Book the Resort with Points 22:31 Exploring the Resort: Pools, Restaurants, and More 29:20 The Perks and Pitfalls of Hotel Status 30:07 The Cost of Breakfast: A Diamond Status Dilemma 31:19 Dining Delights: Exploring the Hotel's Restaurants 33:27 The Cliffside Dining Experience: A Unique Culinary Adventure 36:37 The Service Experience: A Testament to Attention to Detail 38:22 The Personal Touch: Celebrating Special Occasions 40:09 The Dining Options: From Casual to Fine Dining 43:05 The Extra Touches: From Complimentary Drinks to Personalized Service 48:31 Activities and Attractions: Making the Most of Your Stay 52:42 Exploring Beyond the Hotel: Venturing into Town 54:43 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In this episode, we're taking you on a tropical adventure to Costa Rica, a destination that many dream about but assume is out of reach budget-wise (especially for a family vacation). But guess what? Our special guest, Rob Dulgarian, also known as "Travel Points Rob", along with his family of seven, managed to explore the lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beaches of Costa Rica without the financial stress, all thanks to the magic of points and miles. Our journey today is a blueprint for making those seemingly impossible family vacations possible. From the moment we heard Rob's story, we knew this episode was going to be a game-changer for families dreaming of exotic getaways but wary of the costs. Today, we dive deep into the nitty-gritty of planning, executing, and enjoying a family trip to Costa Rica on a budget that feels almost too good to be true. What makes Costa Rica an ideal destination for families, you ask? It's not just the postcard-perfect beaches or the endless opportunities for adventure in its national parks and rainforests. It's the possibility of experiencing all of this without the hefty price tag, thanks to strategic use of credit card points and miles. Rob shares firsthand experiences, from booking flights and accommodations to enjoying local attractions, all while keeping expenses to a minimum. We made sure to pack this conversation full with tips and tricks on how to leverage those points and miles for maximum benefit, making luxury accessible and travel dreams achievable. Whether you're a seasoned points collector or just starting out, there's something for everyone looking to stretch their travel budget further. So, are you ready to discover how you can give your family the gift of an unforgettable vacation without the financial strain? It's time to redefine what's possible with a little creativity and the right strategies. Grab your headphones or crank up the speaker, and let's dive into the lush world of Costa Rica on points and miles. Hit play to listen to the full episode and embark on this journey with us! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links From This Episode: Tabacon Thermal Resort: https://www.tabacon.com/ Andaz Papagayo: https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/liraz-andaz-costa-rica-resort-at-peninsula-papagayo?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_liraz Secrets Papagayo: https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/secrets/costa-rica/papagayo-costa-rica/ Maleku Tours: https://www.malekutours.com/ Activities: https://travelmomsquad.com/costa-rica-family-activities-to-consider/ Pam's Past trip to Costa Rica: https://travelmomsquad.com/points-and-miles-to-costa-rica/ Episode Minute By Minute: 00:48 Introduction and Special Guest, "Travel Points Rob" 01:19 Traveling to Costa Rica on Points 03:15 Experiences with Southwest Airlines 04:47 Traveling to Costa Rica with Family 06:02 Traveling to Costa Rica as a Solo Traveler 07:11 Traveling within Costa Rica 12:03 Staying in Costa Rica: Accommodation Experiences 22:42 Activities and Experiences in Costa Rica 30:19 Planning Future Trips to Costa Rica 32:40 Conclusion and How You Can Get to Costa Rica!

Ever wonder how a journey to Japan, packed with adventure and luxury, can be almost free? Well, buckle up, because Jess's recent trip to the Land of the Rising Sun is nothing short of a travel masterpiece. Imagine scoring business class flights worth over $20,000 for a mere $1,000 in taxes and fees, and luxuriating in nine nights at opulent Hyatt hotels for less than $300. Sounds like a dream, right? But it's exactly what Jess did, and she's spilling all the secrets. With a whirlwind of strategic planning and a dash of spontaneity, Jess and her stepdaughters flew from Chicago to Tokyo on a deal too good to pass up. From the moment they landed, Tokyo welcomed them with its bustling charm and endless explorations. Staying at the Andaz Tokyo, they were treated to breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, and a taste of Japanese culture that's hard to come by. But it wasn't just about the destinations; it was about embracing the beauty of travel, from the exhilaration of flying business class to the serenity of Kyoto's historical sites. This is a vivid reminder of the joys of exploring new cultures, the thrill of luxury travel made accessible through savvy spending, points, and the unforgettable memories created along the way. We explore their journey through Tokyo and Kyoto, showcasing the best of Japan, from the futuristic vibes of teamLab Planets to the timeless beauty of Kyoto's temples and the Park Hyatt's serene luxury. This experience is all about the power of points and miles, turning a dream into an affordable reality. So, whether you're dreaming of neon-lit Tokyo streets or the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, Jess's story proves that with a little know-how and some credit card points, these dreams can become reality. Ready to embark on your own journey of nearly-free travel and create stories to tell for a lifetime? Hit play to listen to the full episode and dive deep into the world of savvy award travel. Your adventure awaits! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links From This Episode: Andaz Tokyo: https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/tyoaz-andaz-tokyo-toranomon-hills?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_tyoaz Park Hyatt Kyoto: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/japan/park-hyatt-kyoto/itmph SmartEx App (for Shinkansen tickets): https://smart-ex.jp/en/app/download/index.html Voice Map app: https://voicemap.me/walking-tour-app Kamakura History Walk: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/658965 Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Jess's Japan Trip 00:58 The Journey Begins: Flight to Japan 13:38 Navigating Tokyo: Public Transportation and Accommodation 18:59 Exploring Tokyo: Food, Culture, and Attractions 32:45 Transition to Kyoto: Bullet Train Experience 35:03 Discovering Kyoto: Accommodation and Local Experiences 41:42 Day Trips from Kyoto: Nara and Osaka 41:51 Wrapping Up the Japan Adventure: Final Night in Tokyo 44:31 Reflections and Takeaways from the Japan Trip

Pam, an expert in booking premium flights, shares her Abu Dhabi journey flying Etihad's luxury apartments using credit card points. From the excitement of securing a deal to the exquisite dining experience onboard, she paints a vivid picture of luxury travel. Embracing spontaneity, she explores the joy of experiencing world-class comfort in the skies, turning a simple flight booking into an unforgettable adventure.

Welcome back travelers! Today, we're giving you a glimpse into how we choose those fabulous, family-friendly hotels and resorts for our travels. It's all about blending fun, comfort, and adventure for the entire family. Join us, as we share some insights and our top picks that have made our family vacations truly special. Our journey in identifying the ideal family vacation spots is driven by a mission to find destinations that cater to both adults and children. For instance, the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach in California is a prime example. Its beachfront location, coupled with family-friendly amenities and proximity to Disneyland, make it a top choice for a diverse family experience. Venturing to Costa Rica, the Andaz Costa Rica stands out as a perfect balance of luxury and child-friendly fun. From its diverse pool options to the excitement of wildlife encounters, it exemplifies the kind of destination that appeals to all ages. We can't get over how amazing this resort is and cannot wait to go back! In Hawaii, the Grand Hyatt Kauai caught our attention. Despite its less swim-friendly beach, the resort compensates with stunning pools and lush landscapes, demonstrating that the allure of a destination can extend beyond the typical beachfront criteria. Texas offers the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, a resort that combines the tranquility of the countryside with a plethora of activities like water slides and horseback riding, making it an ideal choice for action-packed family getaways. Lastly, the Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman has all the versatility needed for family travel. Balancing kid-friendly activities with adult luxuries, it's a splurge-worthy destination offering exceptional experiences. In this episode, we dive deeper into how each of these resorts offers something unique, ensuring memorable family vacations. Hit play now to learn how to plan that perfect family getaway! Plus, follow the links below if you want to get there for nearly free. :) Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Andaz Costa Rica Grand Hyatt Kauai Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Kimpton Seafire Hyatt Ziva Cancun Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction To Our Favorite Family-Friendly Hotels/Resorts 01:18 Exploring the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach 03:50 Delicious Breakfast at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach 05:10 Discovering the Andaz Costa Rica 08:37 Additional Activities at Andaz Costa Rica 10:33 Experience at Grand Hyatt Kauai 12:24 Comparing Grand Hyatt Kauai and Hyatt Regency Maui 14:42 Unveiling the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines 17:08 Activities at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines 19:14 A Non-Hyatt Option: Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman 19:57 Maximizing Your Hotel Stay with Points 20:19 Making the Most of IHG Points 20:51 Benefits of Booking Multiple Nights 22:50 Hotel Location and Amenities 23:16 Family-Friendly Features and Activities 23:51 Water Activities and Kids Club 25:07 Resort Fees and Inclusions 25:26 Overall Experience and Recommendations 31:54 Honorable Mentions: Other Great Family Hotels 36:39 Future Family Vacation Destinations

Q&A With TMS! Today, we're getting personal and interactive by answering your questions. We've gathered a fantastic collection of questions from our Instagram stories, and we got to answer as many of them as we could in this episode! Here is just a sneak peek at some of the tips and tricks we cover: We tackle common dilemmas such as being an authorized user on a credit card and still wanting to snag the welcome offer. We also address the post-welcome offer phase—what do you do with your credit cards then? Close them? Keep them open and pay the fee for another year? Something else? We dive into questions asked about our planning process—do we choose our destinations first, or do we follow the deals? We share our mixed approach of meticulous planning and spontaneous deal grabbing, like the amazing flight sale to Singapore we couldn't resist! A significant part of our discussion revolves around managing annual fees and maximizing the value of our points. So, we decided to open up about our strategies and experiences, demonstrating how to make the most out of those points and miles. And finally, we just couldn't wrap up this Q&A episode without sharing some of our proudest moments. Are you ready for tips, insights, and more? Hit play and join us for a deep dive into the art of award travel! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 01:15 Answering Your Questions: Credit Card Usage 03:39 Answering Your Questions: Strategy After Redeeming Points 08:12 Answering Your Questions: Choosing Destinations vs. Following Deals 12:49 Answering Your Questions: Saving Points vs. Earning and Burning 17:46 Answering Your Questions: Expenses Not Covered by Credit Cards 22:09 Answering Your Questions: Business Cards for 5/24 25:44 Answering Your Questions: Annual Fees 29:31 Our Proudest Moments in Traveling On Points

Today, we're peeling back the curtain on the Travel Mom Squad – sharing the story of our humble beginnings, the engine that keeps our mission running, and some golden insights for those of you dreaming of starting your own venture. Travel Mom Squad sprouted its roots back in December 2018, with Alex at the helm. Spotting a gap in the award travel community, particularly a lack of family-oriented resources and female perspectives, she set out to create a platform that addressed these voids. Fast forward, we all joined forces, pushing Travel Mom Squad from a passion to a potential business! Running the Travel Mom Squad isn't just about sharing travel tips; it's a business sustained by affiliate links and course sales, like our Award Travel Academy. But at the core of it all is our passion for traveling on points and the joy of helping others travel more for less. This passion is the lifeblood of our blog posts, podcast episodes, and every piece of content we create! For those aspiring to start their own business, our journey is a true example of how you can turn your passion into a thriving business. We encourage you to learn, grow your email list, and follow your passion – it's the surest path to success. So, are you ready for a behind-the-scenes look into the Travel Mom Squad (and maybe even find inspiration for your own entrepreneurial journey)? Hit play and join us as we explore the business side of award travel! Here's to a journey filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable travel experiences. Happy travels in 2024! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Webinar: How to Get Paid to Travel Without a Big Following: https://www.macs-explore.com/alex2 Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Today's Episode, All About the Business Side of the Travel Mom Squad! 01:04 The Origin Story of the Travel Mom Squad 03:14 The Challenges and Triumphs of Starting a Business 04:16 The Role of Family in the Travel Mom Squad 06:46 The Birth of Made Possible by Points 10:19 The Merger of the Travel Mom Squad and Made Possible by Points 15:41 The Business Side of the Travel Mom Squad 32:04 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Business Owners 38:20 Final Thoughts and Motivation to Start Your Own Business!

Feeling a bit baffled by the twists and turns of credit card applications and rewards? You're definitely not alone in this journey! With a myriad of cards, rules, and unexpected hurdles, the path to becoming a savvy traveler can seem daunting. But fear not, we're here to guide you through the maze with ease! In today's episode, we look into the common challenges and mysteries that many of us face when traveling on points and miles. We're breaking down the complexities of pending applications, credit card denials, and the strategies for turning these seemingly setbacks into exciting opportunities. Whether it's understanding the nuances of a pending application, tackling a denial head-on, or making the most of a reconsideration call, we've got the inside scoop for you. Our conversation is filled with practical advice and real-life stories to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of points and miles. If you're aiming to make 2024 a year filled with rewarding travel and smart choices, this is a conversation you can't miss! So, what are you waiting for? Hit play and join us in this impactful episode. Start turning your travel challenges into triumphs. And remember to check out our free masterclass below, where we share even more tips and tricks to make 2024 a year of incredible, nearly free travel adventures. Happy traveling, and here's to unlocking more of the world in 2024! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Beginner's Guide to Travel on Points: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/beginnerguide Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction to Credit Card Denials and Pending Applications 00:48 Understanding the Stress of Credit Card Denials 01:14 Dealing with Pending Applications 01:20 The Reality of Pending Applications 02:42 Options When Your Application Goes Pending 05:33 Personal Experiences with Pending Applications 08:09 Providing Additional Information for Verification 13:06 Dealing with Denials and Reconsideration Calls 20:05 Sharing Personal Experiences with Denials 30:15 Understanding Retention Offers 38:50 Final Thoughts On Dealing with Pending Applications and Credit Card Denials

Interested in traveling on points and miles but find it a bit overwhelming? You're not alone. With so many cards and rules to consider, it can feel like a daunting task. But don't worry, we're here to help simplify it all for you! In this episode, we're tackling the most common pain points, making the journey into this exciting world more accessible and less intimidating. We demystify the complexities of booking with points. Whether it's the best time to book, understanding the points needed for different trips, or the art of finding award flights, we've got you covered. Each traveler's approach is unique, and we're here to show you how flexibility and a personalized strategy can lead to incredible travel experiences. Whether you're after simplicity or the highest value per point, aligning your tactics with your travel goals is crucial. One concern many award travelers share is the fear of running out of credit card options. We address this by sharing sustainable strategies and insights into the ever-evolving world of travel credit cards. Plus, we offer tips for beginners feeling overwhelmed, emphasizing the importance of starting small and gradually building your skills. This episode is packed with actionable advice and real-life examples to help you navigate the points and miles landscape. If you're looking to make 2024 a year filled with adventure and smart travel choices, this conversation is a must-listen! So, why wait? Hit play to join us on this exciting episode and start turning your travel dreams into reality. And don't forget to check out our free masterclass below, offering even more insights to help make 2024 your year of unforgettable, nearly free travel. Happy traveling and here's to exploring more of the world in 2024! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Beginner's Guide to Travel on Points: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/beginnerguide Travel Freely App: https://my.travelfreely.com/app_store?bref=hms Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction to the Most Common Pain Points 01:21 Understanding the Basics of Booking in Advance 05:58 How Many Points Do You Need for a Trip? 11:28 Mastering the Art of Award Searches 18:29 Maximizing the Value of Your Points and Miles 23:44 Addressing the Fear of Running Out of Cards 28:33 How to Stay Organized and Not Become Overwhelmed 38:02 Encouragement and Next Steps to Stress-Free Travel!

Today, we are diving into our 2024 travel plans and card strategies for maximum adventure. Traveling on points and miles can turn your dream vacation into an unforgettable family trip for nearly free! As 2024 unfolds, we are buzzing with excitement, sharing our insights on top card picks. Each card, carefully chosen, mirrors our unique travel aspirations! It doesn't matter what your goals are; points and miles can help get you there. Our travel plans for 2024 are as diverse as they are exciting. From the historical charm of Scotland to the modern marvels of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, and even a fantasy getaway to Bora Bora, our itinerary showcases the wide variety of experiences you can have with enough points and miles. In this episode, we also talk about points balance, our personal points reserves, and how they influence our travel decisions. This insight is invaluable for anyone looking to build an effective points strategy in 2024 and beyond! So, are you ready to embark on an exciting journey this year? Press play to hear the full episode, and join us as we explore the most rewarding ways to travel for less! P.S.—Don't forget to check out our free Masterclass below for more tips on making 2024 your year of nearly free travel. Here's to making incredible memories and unlocking new horizons in 2024 – happy travels! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Ultimate Guide to Hyatt: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/ultimatehyatt Episode Minute By Minute: 01:11 Unveiling Our Top Card Picks for 2024 02:36 Alex's Exclusive Card Strategy for the Year Ahead 03:33 Pam's Personalized Card Tactics for 2024 07:10 Jess's Journey: Where Will 2024 Take Her? 09:28 Alex's Dream Destinations for 2024 15:33 Pam's Ultimate Travel Wishlist for the Year 22:47 2024's Most Awaited Travel Experiences 23:56 The Inside Scoop on Planning Our Singapore Adventure 28:51 Exploring the Possibilities: Where Might 2024 Take Us? 30:30 Family Travel Fantasies: Planning Ahead for 2024 35:51 Mastering the Art of Points & Miles Stockpiling 36:06 Setting Goals: Our Points Earning Strategy for 2024 37:41 Revealing Our Current Points We've Collected