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Hotel Programs: Why the Marriott Bonvoy Program is an ideal choice for families
The Marriott Bonvoy program stands as one of the world's largest hotel rewards programs, boasting a diverse portfolio of 30 brands spanning various price points, from budget-friendly to opulent getaways worldwide. Its reliable reputation stems from conveniently located properties and a flexible rewards program. Within the Marriott Bonvoy program, you'll discover over 7,000 participating hotels spread across these 30 brands: AC Hotels Aloft Hotels Autograph Collection Hotels
Michael Dade
Sep 23, 20233 min read


Hotel Review: Hilton Bali, Nusa Dua
Our 6-night stay at the Hilton Bali in Nusa Dua , with our Hilton Diamond status, was nothing short of a dream come true. The combination of the upgrade to a lavish pool villa, access to the exclusive lounge, complimentary breakfast at the buffet, and the stunning location in Nusa Dua created an unforgettable experience for our family. Nusa Dua, renowned for its pristine beaches and upscale resorts, was the perfect backdrop for our holiday. The Hilton Bali, nestled within thi
Michael Dade
Sep 22, 20232 min read


Credit Card Review: Amex Gold vs. Amex Platinum - Which Card is Better for Families Earning Membership Rewards Points?
American Express offers a range of premium credit cards that come with lucrative rewards programs. Two of the most popular options are the American Express Gold Card and the American Express Platinum Card. Both cards accrue Membership Rewards points, but they have distinct features and earning structures that may or may not be practical for most families when earnings rewards points. In this article, we'll dive into the ways we've found the American Express Gold Card can be m
Michael Dade
Sep 20, 20233 min read


The Gift of Adventure: Why Adults Should Create a Travel Rewards Account for Their Children Early On
Traveling is a wondrous journey filled with opportunities for personal growth, cultural exploration, and unforgettable memories. As...
Michael Dade
Sep 19, 20233 min read


Our Top 4 Tips for Traveling Internationally with a Toddler
Traveling internationally with a toddler can be a wonderful opportunity to create lasting family memories. However, it also comes with...
Michael Dade
Sep 19, 20234 min read


Our Top 4 Tips for Traveling Internationally with an Infant
We began traveling internationally with our children at a very young age. Along the way, we learned alot from the process and wanted to...
Michael Dade
Sep 19, 20234 min read


Credit Cards: How to get the Ritz Carlton card and why it's worth the $450 annual fee
The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card is a Marriott Bonvoy co-branded card that's no longer available to new applicants – but that doesn't mean you can't get it. We just recently attained the card and it's quickly become one of our favorite cards with some of the best travel perks of any rewards card on the market. There is currently a $450 annual fee but that's lower than most ultra-premium cards and we'll later explain why it's easily justified. I've come to realize that this card
Michael Dade
Sep 17, 20232 min read


The targeted American Airlines and Hyatt Instant Status Pass is back (Offer Currently Unavailable)
This offer is currently unavailable. Shortly after the announcement that American AAdvantage elite flyers can attain World of Hyatt...
Michael Dade
Sep 15, 20232 min read


Beginners Guide: Why should I optimize points and miles to travel with my family?
Our family embarked on our points and miles journey in 2020, and since then, we've created many amazing experiences and countless memories to talk about for a lifetime. Optimizing travel points and miles can be an incredibly rewarding strategy when planning family vacations. Here are some personal and other compelling reasons why anyone with a family should consider this approach: Cost Savings: One of the most obvious benefits of optimizing travel points and miles is the po
Michael Dade
Sep 10, 20232 min read


Lounge Review: Amex Centurion Lounge at SFO
Our recent visit to the newly expanded American Express (Amex) Centurion Lounge located at Terminal 3, Concourse F at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) was an absolute delight for our family (this lounge has been temporarily relocated ). From the moment we walked through the lounge's entrance, we were greeted by the inviting ambiance and impeccable service. The spacious layout of the lounge was a pleasant surprise. With plenty of room to move around, our kids didn't f
Michael Dade
Sep 9, 20232 min read


Hotel Review: The Ritz Carlton Chicago
The Ritz Carlton Chicago | Resort Chasers Our stay at The Ritz Carlton Chicago in the Summer of 2022 was nothing short of exceptional for our family of four. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and impeccable service that made us feel right at home. The room, which we were able to book for free using a free night award plus 15,000 points, was spacious and beautifully appointed. It comfortably accommodated our family with two adults and two children,
Michael Dade
Sep 8, 20232 min read


Hotel Review: Hotel Del Coronado
During our delightful 3-night stay at Hotel Del Coronado over Labor Day weekend 2023, we relished the overall experience, though a few minor disappointments merit mention. We used a free night certificate for one night and points for the other two during this holiday weekend. The staff provided attentive and accommodating service, ensuring our dining experience was top-notch. Traveling with my spouse and two children, our expectations were high for this iconic resort. Upon a
Michael Dade
Sep 6, 20232 min read


Airline Review: An Exceptional Japan Airlines experience
I recently had the pleasure of flying with Japan Airlines from San Francisco to Singapore via Tokyo with my family, including two adults and two children, in economy class. I must say, our experience was nothing short of exceptional. First and foremost, the seats were comfortable and spacious, which made the long journey much more pleasant for someone like me who is 6'5". As a family, we truly appreciated the seating arrangement that allowed us to sit together, ensuring a ha
Michael Dade
Sep 1, 20232 min read


Hotel Review: Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza
My family and I had the pleasure of enjoying a FREE two night stay at the Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza in July 2023, and we must say it was an unforgettable experience. We were able to secure two nights using a free night award redemption plus 6000 points for the first night and 41,000 points for the second. As Platinum Bonvoy members, we had high expectations, and this iconic hotel exceeded them in every way. From the moment we arrived, the staff at Singapore Marriott Tang
Michael Dade
Sep 1, 20232 min read


Beginner's Guide: The World of Points & Miles
Using points and miles can be a great way to save money and make family travel more affordable and possible. In the vast realm of points and miles however, a plethora of programs beckon your selection. Determining the ideal program for your needs is a query often vexing. The truth is, there's no universally perfect fit for all individuals or families. The choice of programs is a highly personalized decision, shaped by various factors unique to each traveler. For those embarki
Michael Dade
Apr 26, 20233 min read


4 simple and easy tips to to get started in Napa
Planning a Napa Valley getaway for the first time can be challenging, but don't worry, we've got you covered. Here are four simple tips...
Michael Dade
Apr 23, 20233 min read


Beginner's Guide: Why we gave up using debit cards for credit cards
In today's world, credit and debit cards have become ubiquitous, and there are more options than ever before. However, instead of using...
Michael Dade
Apr 22, 20233 min read


Hotel Review: Discover the perfect Hawaiian Family Vacation at the Marriott Wailea Beach Resort
The Marriott Wailea Beach Resort in Hawaii is the perfect resort for a family vacation! From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed by the friendly staff and were blown away by the stunning ocean views. This luxurious resort offers something for everyone, from spacious and comfortable accommodations to an array of fun activities and delicious dining options. This five night trip in Spring 2022 was booked using 240,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Our room at the Marriott Wailea
Michael Dade
Apr 22, 20232 min read


Hotel Review: Top 5 reasons the Fairmont Mayakoba is a great choice for families
Beach Club at the Fairmont Mayakoba in Riviera Maya The Fairmont Mayakoba resort is a luxurious and stunning resort located in the heart of the Riviera Maya , a region famous for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and fascinating cultural heritage. With its lush tropical forests, crystal-clear lagoons, and postcard-perfect beaches, this resort offers a truly exceptional vacation experience for families. Here are some additional reasons why the Fairmont Mayakoba resort is
Michael Dade
Apr 21, 20233 min read


Hotel Review: The Ritz Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
The Ritz Carton Bacara, Santa Barbara | Resort Chasers Our stay at The Ritz Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara in July 2021 was an exceptional and unforgettable experience. We chose to celebrate my wife's birthday at this resort, and we were able to book the trip for an incredible value of only 200,000 points for four nights, despite the fact that it was during the busy July 4th weekend. The resort can typically cost upwards of 100,000 points per night, making this deal an amazin
Michael Dade
Apr 21, 20233 min read
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