MTM Travel - The Fun Side of Points & Travel!
The fun side of miles, points and travel! Hosted by Shawn Coomer and Mark Ostermann, MTM Travel dives into the points hobby & the lifestyle of travel with topical conversations and plenty of laughs along the way. Mark & Shawn have a combined 18 years of experience covering these topics on Miles to Memories and Travel on Points and are cohosts of the popular MtM Vegas Youtube Show on the Miles to Memories Vegas channel. They also host the 20 Minute Travel news show on this same feed where you can keep up with the latest deals, news and happenings.
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End of Year Credit Blitz, Surprising New Card Apps & Christmas on the High Seas!
12/29/2025
End of Year Credit Blitz, Surprising New Card Apps & Christmas on the High Seas!
Shawn's InKind referral - Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel we shake off the post-Christmas blues with some fun discussion about travel and credit cards. Shawn just returned from his Christmas cruise on Princess. He discusses how it was unique plus his strategy for earning free casino cruises. We also discuss: how we're maximizing all of our end of year credits, Mark's lesser known triple dip, struggling with kids & technology, InKind's expanded bonus + snow tubing in Norway and the Six Flags Saudi Arabia opening. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:25 Christmas cruising on the high seas 4:09 Shawn’s free cruise casino strategy 9:25 The parent’s struggle with technology 12:27 How cruises expand a child’s social world 15:14 Maximizing end of year credits - The big blitz & tricks along the way 23:55 Mark’s lesser known end of year triple dip 30:55 InKind keeps getting better + increased referrals 35:43 Snow tubing in Norway + Six Flags Qiddiya opens Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Disney Drinking Inflation, Abrupt Card Shutdown, Dangers of Fintech, Easy 15K & Transfer Devals!
12/15/2025
Disney Drinking Inflation, Abrupt Card Shutdown, Dangers of Fintech, Easy 15K & Transfer Devals!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Mark returns to recap his Thanksgiving family adventure to London and Paris. From flights to hotels and what to do, he covers his unique perspective on these two iconic cities. Shawn also recaps this weekend's MTM Diamond meetup in San Antonio and the two contemplate whether big family trips are worth it. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:24 Disney drinking around the world inflation 6:14 The rush to visit Saudi Arabia? 9:10 The spouse trip - Another side benefit of miles & points 11:50 Mark’s upcoming solo trip to the Azores 16:18 1:1 transfer partners - Going to become a thing of the past? 23:17 How to rarn an easy 15K+ 26:00 The dangers of Fintech? Mesa card abruptly shuts down 28:25 What are Fintech cards and how do they differ from traditional credit cards? 32:10 Why does Bilt get so much coverage and are they different? 35:15 The moves towards earning points on mortgages Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Thanksgiving to Europe, San Antonio Impresses, Visiting Ted Lasso & The Forgotten Paris Hyatt!
12/08/2025
Thanksgiving to Europe, San Antonio Impresses, Visiting Ted Lasso & The Forgotten Paris Hyatt!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Mark returns to recap his Thanksgiving family adventure to London and Paris. From flights to hotels and what to do, he covers his unique perspective on these two iconic cities. Shawn also recaps this weekend's MTM Diamond meetup in San Antonio and the two contemplate whether big family trips are worth it. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:32 Recapping the MTM Diamond meetup in San Antonio 4:25 Airline seat picking hack 7:57 Frontier’s interest on board credit card offer 11:12 Flying AA Business to London on Thanksgiving 17:00 Exploring London, takeaways and the tube 22:55 Mark’s favorite things in London 27:29 Visiting Ted Lasso & the chunnel 31:27 Hyatt Regency Paris review - Underrated? 36:44 Galavanting around Paris, Louvre and other things to see 44:42 Paris vs. London and final takeaways Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Family Travel Social Media Trap, The Traveler's Disconnect & World's Largest Cruise Ship Review!
12/01/2025
Family Travel Social Media Trap, The Traveler's Disconnect & World's Largest Cruise Ship Review!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Joe Cheung joins Shawn to catch up on some travel happenings. During the show Joe discusses and reviews his time on the world's largest cruise ship. It has a lot to do, but is Star of the Seas worth the premium price? We also discuss: post Thanksgiving, the traveler's dilemma, Paris vibes and the social media trap all traveling parents fall into. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:32 The blessing/curse of traveling with extended family 6:15 Traveling with travelers vs. non-travelers 15:04 How travel planning falls on “us” 19:48 Trip planning for Paris/London - What to do? 25:55 Chase finally ads lifetime language - Big restriction! 30:40 Being a good customer to the banks? 36:57 Hyatt’s weird Guest of Honor technological quirk Links Joe Cheung - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Chase's Huge New Restrictions, Hyatt's Tech Gremlin, London/Paris Planning & A Traveler's Stress!
11/24/2025
Chase's Huge New Restrictions, Hyatt's Tech Gremlin, London/Paris Planning & A Traveler's Stress!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Mark discusses his upcoming extended family trip to London and Paris. We discuss how all of the trip planning falls to the traveler, how it becomes so stressful and why technology is making it harder for the non-traveler. What is on the books for the Paris/London trip, what makes those cities great and why do we put up with family trips if they are so stressful? In other news Chase dropped the hammer finally with the addition of restrictive lifetime language on several popular cards. As churning becomes more difficult with these new rules is it time to contemplate whether or not you are a good customer to the banks? We also discuss: Hyatt's Guest of Honor tech gremlin on last minute bookings and what you can do about it. Enjoy! 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:32 The blessing/curse of traveling with extended family 6:15 Traveling with travelers vs. non-travelers 15:04 How travel planning falls on “us” 19:48 Trip planning for Paris/London - What to do? 25:55 Chase finally ads lifetime language - Big restriction! 30:40 Being a good customer to the banks? 36:57 Hyatt’s weird Guest of Honor technological quirk Links Chase lifetime language - Hyatt Guest of Honor - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Huge Credit Card Settlement, More Negative Chase Rules, Best Free Cruise Score & VentureX 400K!
11/17/2025
Huge Credit Card Settlement, More Negative Chase Rules, Best Free Cruise Score & VentureX 400K!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel we discuss a proposed credit card fee settlement that could spell huge changes to travel rewards cards, merchant fees and which cards are accepted at certain merchants. This settlement will cut fees and give consumers more choice, but will it actually fix anything and how will it affect airlines, hotels and other businesses that rely heavily on the industry? We also discuss: eclipses, dealing with crazy time zones, big Capital One Venture X bonuses, new restrictive Chase application language, Shawn's best free cruise score ever & when you can visit the tallest/fastest roller coaster in the world. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:19 Flying back to 100% and booking for 2027? 9:32 Shawn’s best value free cruise ever 17:17 Capital One Venture X - Big increased bonuses 21:11 Chase adds even more restrictive card rules 27:30 The end of card rewards? Big merchant fee settlement & fallout 34:00 How the credit card ecosystem has spread throughout our economy Links Chase rules - Visa/MC settlement - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Hyatt's Bombshell Deal & New Card, Bilt Grows Up, Favorite SoCal Hotel & Aviation Meltdown Avoided?
11/10/2025
Hyatt's Bombshell Deal & New Card, Bilt Grows Up, Favorite SoCal Hotel & Aviation Meltdown Avoided?
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel we cover the latest in the FAA cancelation fiasco as a deal appears to have been reached to reopen the government and bring flights back to 100%. We also discuss Bilt's big news about their new cards and perks coming in 2026, Chase & Hyatt extending their partnership and teasing a new card plus Mark's return to SoCal including the Universal Studios VIP tour and his favorite beach hotel in the United States. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 1:15 FAA cutbacks over? Deal finally reached 3:11 Delta marketing conspiracy? 6:15 We still have an aircraft controller problem 9:40 Bilt Rewards transition details - Mortgage payments! 13:31 Rakuten adds Bilt as cashback partner 17:25 Miles N More added for first time as a U.S. transfer partner 21:47 Chase & Hyatt extend partnership - New perks and cards?! 27:15 Sapphire Reserve 200K offers coming? 29:15 Universal Studios VIP again - Still worth it? 35:37 Oceana LXR Hilton review - Favorite property in SoCal? Links Hyatt premium card - Bilt/Rakuten - Rove Miles - Bilt Changes - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Big Chase Rumors, Cap One's Rough New Rules, How AI Is Changing the Game & No More Sole-Props?
11/03/2025
Big Chase Rumors, Cap One's Rough New Rules, How AI Is Changing the Game & No More Sole-Props?
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel we discuss a number of Chase related topics including a rumor that they may be changing how they process business card applications. We also discuss possible Sapphire upgrade offers, how legacy Sapphire Reserve cardholders can grab their perks and why you might want to grab an Ink 90K before it is too late. Other topics include: Capital One's rough new family rules and how AI is changing the miles & points game. Is technology our enemy in this hobby? 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 6:46 Legacy Sapphire cardholders get new perks 12:46 Chase Sapphire upgrade offers coming soon? 17:17 Chase Ink 90K offers ending soon 19:10 No more sole-prop on business cards? 25:30 Capital One’s rough new family rules 29:45 How AI will change the miles & points space Links Chase Sole Prop Rumor - CSR upgrade - Cap One family rules - Sapphire benefits - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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New AA Globe, Citi's Forced Generosity, 24 Hour Chinese Spas & New Portal with Big Payouts & Xfers!
10/27/2025
New AA Globe, Citi's Forced Generosity, 24 Hour Chinese Spas & New Portal with Big Payouts & Xfers!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel we discuss Citi quite a bit including their curious new $350 annual fee AA Globe card. Does this mid-tier card bring anything new to the market and is it worth pursuing? We also discuss: learning more culture, Citi's generous offer to Strata Elite members affected by a glitch, how they are shutting down some cardmembers, a new portal that has transfer partners & big portal payouts + what 24 hour spas are like in China. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:33 Shutting down the cottage & parent melancholy 5:44 Learning more about Mexican culture, burial traditions 8:56 Relaxing itinerary or getting home as soon as possible? 11:00 Citi’s new AA Globe coupon book? 15:02 Is the 90K Globe welcome offer worth pursuing? 19:22 How banks decide which perks/benefits to add with new cards 20:53 Citi’s very generous customer resolution for Strata Elite - Were they forced into it? 26:00 Citi shutting down some Strate Elite cardholders 28:43 Rove Miles - New portal with transfer partners - 1,500 free miles offer 33:15 24 hour spas in China + other crazy attractions Links Citi AA Globe - Rove Offer - Melio Offer (affiliate link) - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Earn Points on Mortgages, Alaska Devalues, Tallest/Fastest Coaster Opening & Emergency Redemptions
10/21/2025
Earn Points on Mortgages, Alaska Devalues, Tallest/Fastest Coaster Opening & Emergency Redemptions
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Mark recaps some more travel woes he has encountered including a partner award issue that you need to know about and why National's customer service delivers again. On the theme park side we briefly discuss the new Universal Kids park opening in 2026 plus the tallest/fastest/longest coaster opening in Saudi Arabia. We also discuss how Alaska devalued a popular benefit, how Bilt will finally allow you to earn points on mortgages and why miles & points are great to take some stress out of family emergencies. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 1:05 Using miles & points for the important things 7:42 Universal’s new theme park opening in 2026 10:00 World’s tallest/fastest/longest coaster opening in Saudi Arabia 15:10 Alaska devalues companion benefit 19:28 You can finally earn points for paying your mortgage 29:27 Rental car overcharge & National’s amazing customer service 35:16 Partner award nightmare again - Canceled for schedule change? Links Melio Offer (affiliate link) - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Sleepy Hollow Halloween, Best New Haven Pizza, Japan Airlines Business Class & Crazy Travel Fan!
10/13/2025
Sleepy Hollow Halloween, Best New Haven Pizza, Japan Airlines Business Class & Crazy Travel Fan!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Mark recaps his recent East Coast Halloween adventures which included a quest for the best New Haven pizza plus Sleep Hollow, Yale and the coolest Hyatt atrium around! We also discuss a neat around the neck fan for hot planes, Shawn's "rough" Japan Airlines business class experience & how American Dream is doing five years later. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 4:47 Halloween time in Sleepy Hollow 11:07 Dealing with emotional letdowns during travel 13:45 Hyatt Regency Greenwich & its very cool atrium 18:50 Finding the best New Haven pizza & rankings 27:00 Exploring Yale’s amazing architecture & New Haven 29:20 Visiting American Dream - New York’s (NJ) GIANT mall 35:52 A crazy fan contraption for hotel planes/hotel rooms 38:07 A rough Japan Airlines flight - Business class quick review Links Melio Offer (affiliate link) - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Amex FHR Woes, Amazing Status Match, Sad Seoul Hotel & Amazing Views + SW Companion Pass with 1 Card
10/06/2025
Amex FHR Woes, Amazing Status Match, Sad Seoul Hotel & Amazing Views + SW Companion Pass with 1 Card
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn debriefs more from his Asia trip including his time in Seoul, visiting the Lotte Tower and his somewhat sad room at the Ibis Styles Seoul Gangnam (redeeming Accord points)! Other topics discussed include: what Amex FHR options look like post-credit boom, how to grab the Southwest Companion Pass for 2 years with just one card offer, a status match that was too good to be true, New Haven pizza and the tallest/longest bridges in the world. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 1:40 Why New Haven pizza is the best in the world 5:20 Debriefing Seoul - 6th tallest building, Korean Disneyland and more 10:10 Ibis Styles Seoul Gangnam review - Redeeming Accor points! 13:44 What $80 gets you at an amazing Courtyard in China 17:27 How to get the Southwest Companion Pass with just one card 24:03 A status match that was “too good to be true” 29:01 Diving into the Amex FHR weeds - Higher prices & hard to find a “deal”? 35:52 The tallest and longest bridges in the world - Modern tourist sights! Links Melio Offer (affiliate link) - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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China Travel in 2025, Delta/Virgin Ticket "Suspended" & Revisiting the Top Gun Bar!
09/29/2025
China Travel in 2025, Delta/Virgin Ticket "Suspended" & Revisiting the Top Gun Bar!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel Shawn and Mark discuss their recent travels. Shawn goes into his experiences in Shanghai including the Hyatt Centric, why China may be living in the future, the incredible Shanghai skyline, what you need to know about China's payment systems and how visiting the country has changed in the past few years. Mark also discusses a huge issue he had with Delta/Virgin and a suspended ticket plus what it was like revisiting the "Top Gun Bar". 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:43 How Shanghai has changed over the years 3:22 The logistics of the Chinese payment systems as a westerner 7:24 Visiting Shanghai parks including Disneyland and Legoland 10:45 Chinese knock-off coasters? Safety of Chinese parks 18:08 Eating Western food when traveling in China? 20:50 Hyatt Centric Zongshan Park review 23:40 Crazy Delta/Virgin suspended ticket issue 29:00 Revisiting the Top Gun Bar & San Diego hotel suggestion Links Melio Offer (affiliate link) - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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The New Amex Platinums - Did They Pull It Off? Breaking Down Everything You Need to Know!
09/19/2025
The New Amex Platinums - Did They Pull It Off? Breaking Down Everything You Need to Know!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description This week American Express released their long awaited refresh for both their personal and business Platinum cards. On this show we will dive into both cards, what we lost, what we gained, the fees, the welcome offers and more. Is this a win for Amex, should you avoid these almost $900 annual fee cards and what does the future of the premium card market look like? We'll be back next week with a regular show, but enjoy this deep dive including why you might not want to get your Platinum card right this second. Links Melio Offer (affiliate link) - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Chase Ink Goodness, Amex Plat Wait or Apply, Online Passport Data Point & Grab A Companion Pass Now?
09/15/2025
Chase Ink Goodness, Amex Plat Wait or Apply, Online Passport Data Point & Grab A Companion Pass Now?
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description This week as we are getting ready for the Amex Platinum refresh we ponder whether you should pick up a new Business Platinum before the changes take effect. We also discuss: the new 90K Chase Ink bonuses, when you should grab the 100K Southwest offer for a companion pass, whether the pass is worth it, how long it is taking for online passport renewal, cash prices effecting award rates and why Japan award space is wide open. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:26 The joys of the twin cities 5:50 Shawn’s trip update - Last minute Japan availability 8:40 Online passport renewal data points - Government efficiency? 11:08 Hotel cash prices lowering - award prices stay high? 15:25 Mainland China payment apps and rideshare 17:33 Should you get an Amex Business Platinum before the refresh? 25:00 Chase Ink 90K/$900 offers - As good as it gets? 28:33 Southwest 100K offers expiring this week 31:45 The darkside of the Southwest Companion Pass? 36:15 Is the Southwest Companion Pass going away - Too good to be true? Links Melio Offer (affiliate link) - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Real Life Mario Kart, Free WiFi on Planes, Battle of Chase Sapphires & Travel App Data Tracking!
09/08/2025
Real Life Mario Kart, Free WiFi on Planes, Battle of Chase Sapphires & Travel App Data Tracking!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Frontier status match (MTM affiliate link) - https://www.frontierstatusmatch.com/?fpr=xf83a Episode Description This week Southwest announced a positive change for once! WiFi has been getting cheaper on planes over the years, but most still charge. That has been changing and Southwest will finally bring free internet to their planes. When will this happen and how long will it be before every airline offers free internet in the skies? In other news Hyatt has a couple of cool new promos, but one of them has a new twist. Should we be weary of travel apps and all of the data tracking or is that just life in 2025? We also discuss: Mario Kart in real life, why AA is flying 20 empty transatlantic legs and how you can score an easy $200 bonus offer from our partner Melio. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 2:05 More free WiFi on planes - Southwest drops new perk 6:37 Why AA is flying 20 empty transatlantic legs 10:50 New Hyatt promos - with a troubling twist? 13:23 Why companies are trying to force us into using their apps 17:27 The big consumer data problem in 2025 21:23 Battle of Chase Sapphires - A surprising result? 28:42 Mario Kart in real life! Links Melio Offer (affiliate link) - Mario Kart - Southwest WiFi - AA empty flights - Hyatt new property - Hyatt app promo - CSR vs CSP - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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More Amex Platinum Leaks, Hyatt's War On Fraud, Easiest Status Match & Hilton's Waffle Boss?
09/01/2025
More Amex Platinum Leaks, Hyatt's War On Fraud, Easiest Status Match & Hilton's Waffle Boss?
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Frontier status match (MTM affiliate link) - https://www.frontierstatusmatch.com/?fpr=xf83a Episode Description This week even more leaks emerged for the pending refresh of the Amex Platinum cards coming later in September. Previously we learned that they may be adding big hotel credits, but now we know even more. What merchants could be added, how will these credits stack up and will these cards be worth $900 when all is said and done? In other news Frontier has returned with their easiest status match opportunity yet. This could save you big even on a single roundtrip flight, but does the airline deserve all of their hate? We also discuss: Hampton's search for a new Waffle Boss, changing tastes on Doubletree cookies and how Hyatt is being sued after taking tons of points from members. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 4:03 Frontier’s new status match may be the easiest ever 8:00 Why people need to stop sleeping on the low cost carriers 11:25 Hampton is searching for a new Waffle Boss - Win 1 Million points! 16:10 The Priceline days & hotel revenue management 22:15 Hyatt’s attack on fraud in China - Did they overstep? 28:20 More Amex Platinum rumors - Big credits coming 33:33 New Platinum is worth it and not worth it at the same time Links Frontier Status Match - Hampton Waffle contest - Hyatt lawsuit - Amex Platinum rumors - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Chase's Weird Bonus Offer, Alaska's Hot New Program & Card, Planning A Tough Trip & Cracker Barrel?
08/25/2025
Chase's Weird Bonus Offer, Alaska's Hot New Program & Card, Planning A Tough Trip & Cracker Barrel?
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week Alaska finally released the details of their new post-merger loyalty program Atmos Rewards. This new program comes with different ways to earn, milestones and other unique perks, but they also launched a new premium credit card that takes it further. Is Alaska's new loyalty program a good thing, how is this airline growing up and should you grab their new premium credit card offering with its big bonus? In other news Cracker Barrel was in the news this week because of a brand refresh. Is this getting more difficult in 2025 and what trends are we seeing in the travel space? We also discuss: Chase's strange welcome offer decision, more free cruises in 2025 and how Shawn's upcoming China trip is changing...again. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:40 Shawn’s China trip headaches & ninja skills 3:04 Free cruise updates - Is this still working in 2025? 11:06 Debating Chase’s weird new welcome offer - Why? 16:33 Alaska launches brand new Atmos Rewards 21:00 Rebrands in 2025 - Cracker Barrel, etc. 28:17 New Atmos Rewards Summit card - Is this a card you should get now? 33:22 Alaska’s choice for unique perks makes this new card/program a winner? Links Atmos - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Amex Platinum Refresh Leak, Chase Loses A Big Partner, Southwest Anger & Wild Travel Attractions!
08/18/2025
Amex Platinum Refresh Leak, Chase Loses A Big Partner, Southwest Anger & Wild Travel Attractions!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week American Express accidentally leaked some of the new benefits that Platinum cardholders can enjoy when the cards get their refresh next month. We know the fees are going up for both the personal and business Amex Platinum, but what are they adding and is this leaked benefit good enough to justify keeping the card or will they have to do more? In other news Chase is sunsetting their popular Sapphire Reserve 100K + $500 offer while at the same time losing on of their bigger transfer partners. Has Chase dropped the ball in the transfer partner realm? We also talk about some crazy and unique attractions from around the world and how the new Southwest continues to anger customers. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:22 Travel plans blown up! 5:22 The new Southwest continues to go viral 8:54 Big Amex leak - What’s coming to the Platinum card next month? 12:55 Is the new Amex Platinum FHR benefit as good as it sounds? 17:25 Chase loses a big transfer partner - Time to make some moves? 24:46 Sapphire Reserve 100K + $500 ending date announced 27:39 Crazy Chinese tourist attraction + wild things around the world Links Italy waterpark - Plat leak - Chinese conveyor - Chase losing a partner - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Chase's Unexpected Gift, AA/Hyatt Matches Return, Child Bucket Lists & No Good Deed Goes Unpunished!
08/11/2025
Chase's Unexpected Gift, AA/Hyatt Matches Return, Child Bucket Lists & No Good Deed Goes Unpunished!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week Chase surprised some of their top cardholders with a perk that is unadvertised. Why don't we get more of this kind of stuff? We also discuss: how to check if you are targeted for an AA/Hyatt match, whether those matches are worth pursuing, our childhood bucket lists, the melancholy of travel & time plus Shawn discusses his big passport mistake. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 8:35 No good deed goes unpunished 10:10 EV Rebates going away - Is now the time to look at a lease deal? 13:21 The melancholy of time & travel 17:16 Chase’s unexpected Aeroplan 5K bonus for Sapphire Reserve 19:54 Air Canada is a surprising airline 22:16 Hyatt and AA bring back targeted status matches 27:11 Pursuing AA status through spend - Is it worth it? 29:12 China trip planning follow up - Awards still haven’t recovered 33:23 Shawn’s passport conundrum 37:28 Achieving the inner child’s bucket list Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Hyatt Brands Explode, Death of Lifetime Loyalty, Battling Viral Travel Hacks & United's Cool Sale!
08/04/2025
Hyatt Brands Explode, Death of Lifetime Loyalty, Battling Viral Travel Hacks & United's Cool Sale!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week Citi finally brought their new premium credit card to market. While many of the leaks were true, does this card measure up to its competition and will it drive further loyalty. Plus Citi added transfers from ThankYou to American Airlines, but is it as good as it sounds and will it drive sign-ups for this card? Most importantly should you get it? Joe Cheung also joins us to discuss his recent near miss on a welcome offer and how he still managed to save it. Are grace periods a thing? We also discuss international tipping culture as Americans and how we may be expected to tip when traveling even if locals aren't. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 1:27 Royal Caribbean battling back - Loophole closed for viral hack 9:26 Why the future of cruise loyalty says a lot about where we are heading 15:35 Hyatt’s Brand Explorer grows to 7 free nights and 35 brands! 21:55 How hotel design has evolved & why it isn’t always good 31:05 United’s cardholder award sale - Tahiti anyone? 33:45 Ninja tricks - Stacking deals/perks for a VIP tripCiti Strata Elite - Royal Caribbean drinks - United sale - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Citi Strata Elite Disappointment, AA Xfers, Tipping Culture Virus & Welcome Offer Grace Period!
07/29/2025
Citi Strata Elite Disappointment, AA Xfers, Tipping Culture Virus & Welcome Offer Grace Period!
Sorry for the error on the Monday upload. Here is the fixed episode. Enjoy! Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week Citi finally brought their new premium credit card to market. While many of the leaks were true, does this card measure up to its competition and will it drive further loyalty. Plus Citi added transfers from ThankYou to American Airlines, but is it as good as it sounds and will it drive sign-ups for this card? Most importantly should you get it? Joe Cheung also joins us to discuss his recent near miss on a welcome offer and how he still managed to save it. Are grace periods a thing? We also discuss international tipping culture as Americans and how we may be expected to tip when traveling even if locals aren't. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:23 Being stuck in AA banned account hell 4:10 Citi Strata Elite launches & bonus - Is this a good premium card 11:08 Citi adds AA as transfer partner - Is this a gamechanger? 18:32 Did Citi have bad timing with Strata Elite or was it the perfect time? 24:39 Almost missing a welcome offer and grace periods on spend 28:36 How American tipping culture is spreading & how its awkward when traveling Citi Strata Elite - Tipping OMAAT - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Citi Strata Elite Disappointment, AA Xfers, Tipping Culture Virus & Welcome Offer Grace Period!
07/28/2025
Citi Strata Elite Disappointment, AA Xfers, Tipping Culture Virus & Welcome Offer Grace Period!
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New Amex Lounge Concept, Citi Transfer "Mistake" & New Premium Card + Is AI Ripping Off Travelers?
07/21/2025
New Amex Lounge Concept, Citi Transfer "Mistake" & New Premium Card + Is AI Ripping Off Travelers?
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week Citi was in the news for a few reasons. First, they have upped their transfer ratio to Accor by 2X. This might not last, but it is quite valuable. Citi also is planning to launch their new premium Strata credit card next week. While not all of the details are known, tons of rumors have leaked and we'll dive into what this card can be and how it competes with Chase, Amex and Capital One. In other news more and more travel providers are using AI tools to crack down on travelers, but sometimes they backfire. We look at a couple of these tools and what you need to know. We also discuss: Amex's new sidecar lounge concept, how premium credit cards probably aren't worth it and why Amex is trying to make their benefits easier to use. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 2:52 Citi’s Accor transfer mistake? 6:27 Citi’s new premium credit card is coming very very soon 10:45 The rumored benefits for Citi’s new card 16:28 The year of the premium credit card? 18:35 Amex’s new Sidecar lounge - The lounge boom 23:42 Amex’s earnings dive-in - Less breakage & slow bookings? 30:15 A new easier way to connect on international flights 35:14 AI tools and travel - Smoke detectors, Hertz scanners - Reliable? Smoke detector situation - Hertz scanners - DFW connection - Amex earnings breakdown - Citi Strate Elite rumors - Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Bank IT Nightmares, Bilt Grows Up, TSA Warning & Questioning Hyatt's New Offer!
07/14/2025
Bank IT Nightmares, Bilt Grows Up, TSA Warning & Questioning Hyatt's New Offer!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week Bilt dropped a huge bombshell with the announcement that they are leaving Wells Fargo and growing their card portfolio. With three new cards coming and a new bank behind them, will Bilt take their rewards program to the next level and what kinds of perks could we see with their new premium offering? In other #news Hyatt has a new offer on their credit card, but it might not actually be better than the old one. We also discuss fearful activities while traveling, why sweating could cause problems at TSA and why bank IT is still a nightmare in 2025. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:21 Pushing your “fear” limits while traveling 5:40 Another thing to worry about while crossing through TSA 9:03 YouTube travel inspiration for kids and adults 15:44 Hyatt’s new card offer - Is it really better than the normal offer? 19:56 Debating the value of Hyatt free night certs 26:03 US Bank IT fiasco - In 2025? 32:04 Bilt grows up - New bank and 3 new cards coming Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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More Bad Chase Rules, Grand Hyatt Playa, Don't Overlook Accor & Korean Air Miles Problem!
07/07/2025
More Bad Chase Rules, Grand Hyatt Playa, Don't Overlook Accor & Korean Air Miles Problem!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week JetBlue released a very interesting promotion for their 25th birthday. In addition to earning up to 350K bonus miles, you can earn 25 years of Mosaic status as well. How many hoops do you have to jump through and does this make economic sense. More importantly do you have the time to invest into this lucrative deal? In other news Chase launched their Sapphire Business card last week along with a ton of new rules. How are the rules being enforced and which customers has a "bank error" in their favor? We also discuss: how Shawn accidentally beat jetlag, Hyatt Regency at JFK, the Savannah Bananas and how some people missed out on Amex transfers to Hawaiian. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel & 4th of July 5:24 More bad Chase rules 8:48 Shawn’s Korean Air conundrum 13:01 How partner devaluations lower overall values of bank points 16:07 Why Accor is even better than we expected - Citi transfer bonus? 23:44 Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen review 31:13 Visiting Playa Del Carmen, ruins, what to see & better than Cancun? 34:15 Why all-inclusives have become more popular than ever 36:20 Andaz Mayakoba and other takeaways Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Chase Bank Error, Jetblue's Insane 350K Promo, Beating Jetlag, Hyatt @ JFK & Savannah Bananas!
06/30/2025
Chase Bank Error, Jetblue's Insane 350K Promo, Beating Jetlag, Hyatt @ JFK & Savannah Bananas!
Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Episode Description This week JetBlue released a very interesting promotion for their 25th birthday. In addition to earning up to 350K bonus miles, you can earn 25 years of Mosaic status as well. How many hoops do you have to jump through and does this make economic sense. More importantly do you have the time to invest into this lucrative deal? In other news Chase launched their Sapphire Business card last week along with a ton of new rules. How are the rules being enforced and which customers has a "bank error" in their favor? We also discuss: how Shawn accidentally beat jetlag, Hyatt Regency at JFK, the Savannah Bananas and how some people missed out on Amex transfers to Hawaiian. Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:24 Last minute Amex to Hawaiian/Alaska transfers - How much did we do? 5:00 Mark's Savannah Bananas experience 11:20 How Shawn accidentally beat jetlag 16:22 Hyatt Regency at JFK review - Good airport option? 24:00 How Chase is enforcing their new Sapphire rules 30:13 JetBlue's crazy 350K promo - Worth pursuing? Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Huge Chase 200K Bonus, New Sapphire Reserve Launches & Tough New Application Rules + Amex Refresh!
06/23/2025
Huge Chase 200K Bonus, New Sapphire Reserve Launches & Tough New Application Rules + Amex Refresh!
Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) Episode Description This week Chase is relaunching their Sapphire Reserve premium credit card along with an all-new business option. On this show we deep dive into the new cards including all of the perks and the very enticing welcome bonuses. Unfortunately the new Sapphire Reserve card comes with new application rules, a popup and less potential in the long term for earning welcome offers. Which card should you get, which perks make the most sense and what happens to current cardholders? We also discuss Amex Business Platinum losing a valuable perk plus how much the annual fee might be after it is refreshed later this year. Are people over the move to higher annual fees and coupons or will we see more of this from other banks and what the heck has happened to Citi? Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 0:20 Amex teases upcoming Platinum changes, higher fees & loss of a benefit 3:23 New Sapphire Reserve launches with tough new Chase application rules 7:53 Why Chase’s new rules may not roll out to all cards 10:35 How the new Chase “popup” works 11:51 Diving into 100K + $500 bonus on Chase Sapphire Reserve + new benefits, fee and overall value 22:54 Sapphire Reserve Business 200K welcome offer 26:55 Big spend bonuses - IHG & Southwest status - worth it? 29:24 How the new Sapphire Reserve perks work for current cardholders 35:05 Are people getting tired of higher annual fees and “couponing”? Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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Chase Sapphire Relaunch & New Card, Mark's Timeshare Adventures, Hyatt's Killer Promo & More!
06/16/2025
Chase Sapphire Relaunch & New Card, Mark's Timeshare Adventures, Hyatt's Killer Promo & More!
Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) Episode Description This week Chase confirmed that there will be changes this Summer to the Sapphire Reserve card. While we have covered the rumors before, this is the first time we have confirmation. What will be changing, when can we expect to know more and what should you do. Plus Chase also dropped a bombshell indicating a new Sapphire Reserve business card is coming as well. This should be a good opportunity. In other news Mark shares from his Orlando adventures which included an incredible timeshare deal, an interesting presentation and a lot of red flags along the way. We discuss what you should consider with timeshares in general and why you probably want to consider taking them up on offers including discounted rooms, gift cards and more. We also discuss Hyatt's killer new promo, Shawn's European adventures and why skipping the line is so satisfying. Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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European Hotel Woes, Capital One Cuts Back, Travel Fatigue & Park Hyatt Zurich Worth It?
06/10/2025
European Hotel Woes, Capital One Cuts Back, Travel Fatigue & Park Hyatt Zurich Worth It?
Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) Episode Description This week Capital One announced some big changes to lounge access for Venture X cardholders. Like before the new rules are a bit different for the personal and business cards, however everything is getting cutback. Bye bye free guest access for most. Are these cards still worth it? Shawn also details some of the most interesting hotels of his trip including the Park Hyatt Zurich and Hyatt Place Zurich. Is the Hyatt Place a better hotel than the Park Hyatt? He also discusses a lovely Hyatt that feels like an old German grandmother's house, one of the coolest castles in the world and how knowing your travel limits is easier said than done. Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at . Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 1:01 How European hotels are just different than America - Are we idiots? 4:40 How a Best Western delivered a huge surprise 11:10 Capital One’s huge upcoming changes to lounge access 18:36 European rental car debacle update & how to protect yourself 24:01 Visiting Zurich - The best Hyatt Place in the world? 29:00 Park Hyatt Zurich - Is it really worth $1600 or 45K points? 34:21 The quirkiest Hyatt hotel in Europe? 39:31 How much travel is enough? You can subscribe on , , , , , or via . Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!
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