I’m Giving Away $400 to My Blog Readers. Click Here to Enter. All You Have to Do Is Be Positive!

by Gary Leff

It’s been a tough 18 months in the frequent flyer world. It’s easier than ever to earn points, but the cost of awards has gone up, up, up.

Miles and points have been very good to me, and I do my best to give back where I can. I don’t make a public show of my charity, but I do my best to give the best advice I can and to offer giveaways when things are offered to me. And when I have gift cards, I can either turn them into money orders or do various frequent flyer experiments, or I can give them away.

So here, I thought I would give away $400. And what better way to give them away than to my readers who comment on this post?

Goodness knows it’s been a tough 15 months or so for frequent flyers.

And that’s just a small sampling.

So I would like to focus on something positive for a change, and I’m looking to you for help to do so!

Here are the prizes:

    (4) $100 gift cards

So here’s how you enter.

  1. Leave a comment on this blog post. Say something positive above miles and points, blogs, forums, or your fellow travelers.
  2. Enter by Noon Eastern, Friday May 30. That’s 4 days from this writing, and there are four prizes.
  3. Enter no more than 4 times. Four prizes, four days to enter, you can enter by commenting up to four times. (It doesn’t have to be one per day, the only limitation is that you cannot enter twice in a row you have to at least wait for someone else to enter before you enter again each time.)
  4. Four prize winners will be drawn at random. As in past, I will use random.org for the drawing.
  5. Fine print. Void where prohibited by law. All of my decisions are final and unappealable, I want to make giveaways as easy as possible and with the fewest headaches possible.

So, what do you like about miles and points, blogs, forums, or your fellow travelers?

About Gary Leff

Gary Leff is one of the foremost experts in the field of miles, points, and frequent business travel - a topic he has covered since 2002. Co-founder of frequent flyer community InsideFlyer.com, emcee of the Freddie Awards, and named one of the "World's Top Travel Experts" by Conde' Nast Traveler (2010-Present) Gary has been a guest on most major news media, profiled in several top print publications, and published broadly on the topic of consumer loyalty. More About Gary »

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Comments

  1. My favorite thing about fellow travelers is the willingness of everyone to share tips and tricks for getting the most out of those precious miles and points!

  3. I enjoy the challenge of maximizing purchases, trip and stays to earn points to visit family, friends and new places. Shopping portals, emiles, erewards and blogs like these allowed my family of three to fly from MCO to SFO and enjoy a week for next to nothing. Best part is it took less than a year to earn! Thanks!!

  4. Despite all the negative changes to the programs-I continue to feel the pain with United and Hilton, two of the bullets listed above-blogs like this and the forum that accompanies them are a great resource for the point collector and avid traveler. So there is definitely some good things to take away. We just have to work a bit harder when it comes to redemptions.

  5. Despite the devaluation, we can still fly first class at a reasonable price using miles.

  6. You make everything sound do easy in this world of miles. Thanks for the give away 🙂

  8. I like how I’ve learned enough to collect more miles in one year than I did over my lifetime. Although, what I did in a year others do in a month… but it’s still great for me. I appreciate the advice/tidbits of fellow readers too.

  9. I stick with Delta because I know when there is a problem, there are enough options available to “get me to the church on time”.

  11. The most positive thing that I can come up with is that at least the mileage programs still exist.

  14. Hey, if it wasn’t for these blogs, I would not know which mileage programs work best for me.

  16. Someday, sometime in the future, I will have enough miles to go first class over the ocean. That’s positive.

  17. Thanks so much for the opportunity. Everyone is always so helpful in the points community.

  18. Great thing about miles and points is when you can use them for something that just would be cost prohibitive – eg long haul business class, or the honeymoon trip to Hawaii. That and the ability to have elite status and be treated well (especially overseas with alliance partners).

  20. I have earned tons of miles and points over the last few years and have had great success in using these miles and points to travel to many places. Love all the information shared on this blog!

  21. Happy that credit card bonuses still exist… and even that some MS is still possible

  22. I haven’t been forced to buy a airline ticket in many years thanks to collecting frequent flier miles.

  23. Miles for flying first class out of Vegas after a few days of gaming. That’s a good reason to earn miles!

  25. I love the fact that because of this blog I have managed to accrue enough points in less than 3 months to travel first class to Asia and I’m really looking forward to my 50th birthday trip to do just that

  27. At the end of the day, I am getting free stuff with relatively little added work. It might be less free stuff than before, but it’s still free stuff. And I like free stuff.

  29. The game is always a constant challenge – we need to stay informed to stay on top of the game!

  31. Appreciate all the great, info and tips. This has really helped me be a more informed traveler and points utilizer. Keep pointing the way!

  33. (Entry #2) AA merger with US means way more opportunities to earn AA miles flying out of DCA!

  38. I got into the points game several months ago and am amazed by the awards that can be reaped by just a little bit of research and perseverance! The ability to travel more cheaply, or to enjoy a premium travel experience at a reasonable price, is incredible even today. I can’t imagine what it was like 18 months ago then – must have been incredible!

  39. I’m grateful for the network of enthusiasts and hobbyists among us so we all benefit from our shared experience and knowledge.

  41. It certainly takes alot of time to manage all of one’s mileage plans, hotel programs, etc. But with all these blogs, forums and comments from fellow travelers, it helps tremendously in sorting through all the details to get to the meat of the issues! Thanks so much!

  42. Thinking positive is way better then being negative….. Thanks for all your positive information.

  44. It’s all about the awesome buzz you get successfully chasing down the flight and hotel deals

  45. This weekend is my first experiencing airline club lounges. The Star Alliance lounges have been an amazing experience, and showers and hot breakfasts have really made my long flights much more pleasant. I’ve decided I’d like to renew my United gold+ status this year so I can keep star alliance gold.

  49. In spite of all the negative changes there it is still a very positive thing that we are still able to travel in C or F on long haul using miles and staying at very fine hotels for points.

    This in my world still make it worth all the business travelling I do every year a little easier to live with 🙂

    Br,
    Henrik

  51. Being able to use miles to fly the family business class from the East Coast to Australia (bought one ticket, used miles for two more). That’s a positive experience. Having a reference site like View is icing on the cake.

  53. Positive is that i will be traveling with my daughter in business class to Warsaw and returning through London on miles and avios and some cash.

  54. I’m feeling very positive about the fact that I’m flying to Africa in business class for my first ever safari this fall for close to free, having redeemed Alaska miles on Emirates.

  55. A famous philosopher once said, “some miles and points is better than no miles and points.”

  56. I love the general openness and willingness to share in the frequent traveler community. I got the AA/US to Europe deal this weekend from someone I didn’t even know was “one of us.”

  57. Without advice from this blog and others, I would never have sat in BA or Virgin seats priced as high as $14,000 without miles or strategy. Nor made a habit of it.

  59. Miles allow me to fly my mother-in-law to visit. Wait….this is supposed to be a positive comment….

  60. I’m positive with what we have now bec give it a few years and there will be more devaluations

  61. I’m happy that we have blog areas where everyone can share their thoughts and successes for the greater good of all others.

  64. Positive is that i was able to get my mother business class ticket on Lufthansa to visit us in Washington DC suburbs.

  65. With patience I was still able to get 3 seats on United in GX SFO-LHR and back this July/August at the saver rate!

  66. Besides the perks, it’s just such a wonderful game to play. Easy enough to learn the basics, hard to master.

  67. Despite the devaluations, you can still redeem the miles for great trips, they just cost a little bit more

  68. Positive – i have almost enough miles to take my family to Tokyo for the Spring break 2015

  69. Appreciate the occasional glimpses of civility that still exist, like folks helping passengers in rows forward of them get their bags from overheads, etc

  70. Happy big corporations can’t move slowly and the community is quick to pick up on innovative ways to earn miles faster than they can take them away!

  71. Just booked SYD-HKG-LAX return on CX for holidays next year in J using miles generated through the USDM share promo. Bargain!

  73. I am shifting my focus from airline points to hotel points. I have had some great experiences redeeming hotel points for luxury properties which I would not have been able to afford.

  75. I learned about the points and miles a few years ago. I am grateful to be able to use them to reduce our travel costs for a trip or two trips per year. Even there are negative changes, we can still learn new things from the bloggers, and earn points to offset the travel costs. Thanks.

  76. The fact that those of us in this community continue to share and educate one another so we can find new ways to counter the obstacles that the airlines and hotel chains keep throwing our way

  77. Despite the changes, it would be nearly impossible to travel like we can by using the resources of the forums and blogs and it’s hard to not be positive about that.

  78. I understand that the devaluation is upsetting but miles and points still save me a great deal of money. I travel to Austin for several football weekends in the Fall and the hotels in downtown raise their prices quite a bit but the amount of miles stays the same. It saves me thousands of dollars per year using miles. This blog and the people that post here are a blessing.

  79. I’m one of the few who appreciate what the on board staff of Air Canada flights go through. They keep me happy.

  80. I like that we can combine programs and cards to cover almost every single expense of a trip.

  81. Despite increasing weather and mechanical delays, I am still grateful that my frequent travel allows me to visit family every summer.

  82. I recently booked an awesome trip using Alaska Airlines miles (Mexico City->NYC->Barcelona with a weeklong stopover in NYC). I had to cancel today following a death in the family. They were gracious, helpful and great to deal with. Waived the fees and refunded the taxes, etc. I had paid. Love Alaska Airlines and their generous mileage plan!

  83. I’m thankful that I can earn enough miles to provide for myself and others I my family.

  84. Despite devals, miles are still a great way to enjoy great travel for limited dollars

  85. Just started, but really looking forward to building status with one–or more!–airlines.

  86. I love that above all miles/points allow one to live life to the fullest by getting places and doing things with points that are out of ones normal financial reach

  88. Was able to plan to fly my daughter and family — 5 tickets- to Montana for a week this summer, on USAirways miles, when no One World partner flies anywhere in the state (Yay, Alaska/Horizon!)

  89. Miles/points has helped me travel more easily than before. I just surprised my mom a few weeks ago for mother’s day using avios!

  91. Even though it’s gotten more difficult, I can still redeem my miles, turn left when I get on the plane, enjoy a decent seat, food and service, some good Champagne, and disembark halfway around the world 10 or 12 hours later…traveling is still magic!

  93. I’m so excited to increase my travel using points and miles. Seeing the deals that come up and blog posts from awesome travelers really get me excited to try going to new places.:)

  95. If it weren’t for blogs like this one, I wouldn’t have figured out how to take my family of five to Africa for FREE in business class with points.

  97. i don’t expect to fly for “free.” I use my miles to travel in premium cabins for somewhat less than the cost of economy. “Champagne taste, beer budget” is what i call it!

  98. Straightout, if it weren’t for Skypesos, I wouldn’t have been able to start an Early Music Festival in Montana. Just this year (the 10th I’ve done this), I got 13 ff tix for soloists (and instruments — one cello and one theorbo).

  100. Happy that so many bloggers generously share their secrets with us, so we can fly free too.

  101. The reality about what we do is that no matter how much they take away, we are still able to travel and see the world at prices 99% of the universe dreams about.

  102. Awesome Points & Cash stay at Park Hyatt Buenos Aires a couple of weeks ago

  103. Points allow me to see friends and family more than I would be able to otherwise.

  104. I did not rush to use my mile stash when the recent devaluation was announced because it makes me feel good that I can still travel even it it means the bak of the plane.

  105. Glad to have bloggers like you who share so much with us -with nothing in return….well, maybe a couple of clicks here and there! 😉

  106. Using miles and points has allowed me to take some amazing trips for next to nothing. I’ve also been able to share with others and helped friends take some free trips too.

  111. My daughter is spending a month exploring the Iberian Peninsula, Prague, and Croatia. Another generation takes flight

  112. With all the changes it makes all of you bloggers that much more valuable to the rest of us.

  114. Looking forward to a trip in early Oct by earning some more Hilton points first so will be watching those blogs for tips!

  115. So many great and entertaining travel bloggers that help us maximize our points and miles!

  116. United Economy Plus fares from South Bend to SNA were so expensive, I just bought first class tickets instead and didn’t even feel bad about doing so.

  117. Really enjoy printing and reading on a plane, and then passing on to other passengers.
    Thanks!

  119. Since there aren’t a plane-full of Medallions flying out of my airport on Wednesdays at 5:45 am (on the only flight from here with a front cabin), I almost always get upgraded to First. I usually sleep and skip the Cheerios, but hey, it’s great to sleep in style, AND be one of the first off, to make a run for my 35-minute connection.

  120. There are still a lot of opportunities for newbies to get a lot of points quickly and get a few coach tickets to a far off land.

  121. Gary, You are my first stop when I read the blogs. Thank you for what you do.

  122. I was able to get a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom suite for 7 nights along with 132,000 United miles using Marriott’s rooms and flights program. That is a $300 per night hotel.

  123. There have been a growing number of devaluations, but miles and points are still worth something. It’s a matter of looking in the best possible place for the best possible deal(s) and scenario(s). Blogs like yours help us navigate through the possibilities!

  124. I’ve stayed at some wonderful properties and flown in some amazing cabins due to points and miles.

  125. Would love to see some blog posts on how to best use UA awards when you only have Silver status.

  126. Thanks to lots of shared advice, I was able to get VERY nice free rooms in Boston for my daughter and family and save us all a bunch of $$ on the recent “college visit” trip. Fun to be able to meet them there and add something really special to the trip.

  127. I am super grateful to the Avis at CVG for staying open until 2:00am so we could pick up our rental car after a mechanical delay.

  128. While there have been major devaluations, the opportunity to redeem for free travel still exists! That is a huge positive.

  129. I recently had to self-fund my travel for medical school interviews. Points paid for all of my flights and hotels, even after some programs devalued. The interviewer at my top-choice school was so amazed by this hobby, he spent a good chunk of our 1-hr interview asking about it. A few months later, I got an acceptance letter!

  130. Both paid and award travel continues to allow us to open our minds to new places, new people and new cultures which brings us all much closer together.

  131. Saving my family several hundred dollars when they drive to Montana from NC this summer to visit the national parks. Even with devaluations, those hotel points are a lifesaver for a family.

  133. I am always flexible with my wish-list places so if a great fare or hotel deal comes up I just re prioritize.

  134. When you have bloggers who continue to write about how to find values in our efforts, we all benefit.

  135. I never could have taken more than 25 international trips – all in premium cabins – without points and miles!

  136. Having saved most of our points and miles for future retirement use, devaluation hits at a bad time. But also having just discovered this neat and helpful blog, I feel that a thoughtful plan may be developed for their use and the earning of others. Your advice is a positive, as is the comraderie that the blog viewers offer. Thank you, one and all!

  137. I’ve visited places all over the world thanks to frequent flier miles. It’s getting more difficult now, but I’m still getting a lot out if this! Here’s to more trips!

  139. I can see new places AND visit my daughter with all of the miles/points I DO have!

  140. I try to look at the free plane tickets I get as a bonus- to get them I’ve spent money I would have spent anyway. So, even if it takes longer to get an award ticket, eventually I do and then have extra to spend at my destination!

  141. It is still possible to book last minute travel for a fun trip with the family using points and miles creatively. What a great hobby this is!

  142. My girlfriend and I get to see each other twice a year, since she’s in London and I’m here on the east coast. Redeeming miles has always been a helpful way of defraying the travel expenses.

    And no matter what, I’m grateful.

  143. BA Companion Certificate means my wife can travel with me in First Class ORD-LHR-HKG next month!

  146. Being able to go back home to the Asia in a decade thanks to miles and this blog! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

  148. Thankful for Hyatt at least giving us the Points + Cash option in the midst of their devaluation!

  150. Times change but Alaska Airlines price for Emirates awards still hasn’t!

  152. Points can still make international or last minute travel significantly cheaper than paying cash

  153. British Airways miles on short haul flights in the USA is still a tremendous value. Especially for last minute travel.

  155. Despite devaluations, still being able to book great business class deals with LM has been great!

  157. Miles and Points let me go places and in a manner I could NEVER do the “regular” way.

  158. Great credit card bonuses are still around. 50% of the way through my spend requirement for AA Executive 100,000 mile offer.

  159. I’ve met some wonderful people sitting up front – some of whom I’ve stayed in contact with for years.

  160. I appreciate the sharing of information and experience – with everyone’s help, my fiancee are about to embark on a 12 night honeymoon in Hawaii, with all of our flights and hotel nights paid for by points!

  161. I’ve learned how to maximize my points earning – and also how to use those points to make travel less stressful. A true double-benefit.

  164. Well thanks, Gary. We still can fly up front for little $ & effort and to me it’s a game I’m winning for this poor preacher’s kid to go RTW in 1st sipping Krug

  165. Despite all the devaluations, I’m hoping that the success of the 100,000 mile AA card will motivate other banks to bring back some mega offers.

  170. I love reading trip reports, even for places I’ve been to or for product I’ve flown. It’s like a little moment of vacation when I’m hurtling off in the subway to an office tower.

  173. Despite all the devaluations, we’re still able to utilize foreign programs like LifeMiles and Singapore. And thank to you for being so meticulous for pointing out those fantastic redemptions.

  176. Hopeful for some other really large offers like the 100k AA Executive and the 100k British Airways Visa I’ve gotten in on this year!

  177. Just last week I was able to book one of the cheap ($270) flights to Milan. This will be my first trip to Europe!

  179. I still enjoy the look on everybody’s face when you tell them about all the great deals you can get.

  181. Even though I missed out on so many opportunities, I’m still enjoying booking amazing flights – like being the sole passenger in first on Air China Beijing to LA, or just picking up my bags and jotting off on a long weekend in business on Swiss.

  182. Southwest companion pass and hotel points allowed me to share the experience of a volunteer vacation with my daughter!

  183. We have gone so many places on points, and in first or business most of the time. Couldn’t have done It without the blogs. Thanks.

  184. My miles and points (mostly AA, then Avios and also a few LanPass kilometers) have allowed me to travel to South America at least twice a year since 2009, a few times even biz class and once first class home on a 12 hour leg from Buenos Aires to New York.

  185. I left my engineering job to travel full-time. Miles and points are what’s subsidizing my travel costs. If it weren’t for miles and points, it would not be possible for me to see the world.

    The miles and point seminars is what brings people together to FTU and it’s been a pleasure meeting and networking with the folks I’ve met.

  186. I love that there is SO much information in this blog and similar blogs that help is not only get the most miles possible, but use them to their fullest potential!

  187. Without miles and points, many would not be able to experience first class travel.

  188. There’s still great value to be had from points and status. I used the diamond challenge with Hyatt last year to get status and together with chase ultimate rewards points stayed in a suite at the Andaz Maui with an amazing free breakfast at less than the cost of a regular room!

  189. ON THE BRIGHT SIDE….

    I feel like the frequent flyer community is definitely working together as a response for the continuous devaluations. It has never been so easy for me to get in touch with good deals!

  190. Points allowed our family of 4 to book award tickets to Africa this summer, saving tons!

  191. Also positive is the fact that I’ve nearly replenished the Alaska miles I used to book my trip to Africa, thanks in part to a tip from your blog about being able to transfer points from the SPG AMEX to Alaska (plus earning a sizeable signup bonus).

  192. Club Carlson Visa 5x on everyday purchases! Easy points and a great free night combo with the credit card!

  193. Companies have been investing major improvements in premium cabin travel so that even while the products are costing more, they are providing a nicer experience

  195. Honestly, there are still some good promotions out there (such as Flying Blue promo awards).

  197. Fragrance,see of the devaluations, hyatt still seems to be one of the best hotel programs out there

  199. Bad as things are getting, I am still able to get a ticket for a non-stop flight for my mother-in-law to visit.

  200. Hilton points have lost a lot of their value, but status is still well recognized. Got 3 suites upgrades this year!

  203. As much as all the devaluations mentioned above blows…club carlson is still going strong…i got a premier credit card from them and the lower version which gave me about 170,000 points after sign up bonus thresholds. With club carlson’s awesome “free last night of stay” i managed to get 8 nights in europe. With half of them being raddisson blu.

  205. Positive about having the View as a study guide and general good reading! Without it I would never have flown BA among other great advantages I’ve enjoyed. Thank you for sharing!

  206. Grateful to be healthy and able to enjoy travel, whether paying full-price or enjoying discounts shared by generous frequent flyers and boggers.

  207. Even with devaluations, earning miles and points through credit card bonus and share miles promotion on usairways has allowed our family to take another amazing summer vacation.

  209. I’m positive my first class flight on Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong could not have been any better. On points, of course.

  210. Even with devaluations, I’m still able to get good use of miles/points. Maybe not AS good, but still good.

  211. I appreciate how helpful and friendly all the bloggers (like you) are! It’s great for a newbie starting out! No negative experiences so far going through award/points/miles blogs!

  212. The miles earned on my Virgin Atlantic credit card have taken us to Europe countless times .

  213. Last year we had our first grandchild and I got to fly FREE to see her 9 times on my husband’s Southwest companion pass.

  215. ON THE BRIGHT SIDE (2)

    I feel like a lot of companies situated in the american continent (AA, Aeromexico, LATAM, …) Have seriously improved their premium service, specially in J.

  216. Despite the changes to several programs, there are still many wonderful opportunities to accumulate miles and make dreams come true!

  217. I can earn 2000 Marriott points every 30 days by just likeing specific hotels.

  218. How can I be anything but thankful? What I’ve been able to experience by having travel as my hobby is beyond wonderful. Ten years ago it was low cost revenue travel, today it’s credit card maximization, who knows what the future holds? And it’s as much fun today as it was when I started this hobby fifteen years ago.

  219. I was able to use advice from one of the travel bloggers to get that super awesome business class sale in March for 5 of us to get to Europe for $1813/person. Now THAT’S positive!!!

  222. Thank you Gary for writing this blog. It’s been very helpful to me over the years. I would not have been able to take my wife for a (mostly) free trip to Hawaii earlier this year, staying at the best hotels and flying first class. Or to Italy the year before. It would be impossible to do this on one meager income if it wasn’t for miles and points and your guidance. Thanks again.

  224. The miles of my main FF program – Alaska Airlines – have gotten much more valuable by comparison!

  225. I am grateful that the collection of airline miles remains a valuable currency to me.

  226. I enjoy the feeling of getting that sense of extra value for doing otherwise everyday activities.

  227. First, I’ve been accumulating points since 1976 with TWA, and been all over the world using those points. All that exposure to other people and their cultures has made me appreciate our similarities and differences. Bottom line: travel for me is not about places, it’s about people, and it’s made me a better person and a better “ambassador” for our culture.

    Second, I’m so glad that they got George Clooney to play me!

  228. The points game is still on! I have been to six continents and the opportunities are endless. You have to be an informed consumer and use credit wisely. It is rewarding and fun to book a first class seat and stay in a great hotel for a fraction of what it would cost without points.
    Not everyone has the discipline to play, but what fun we have.

  229. Bloggers help to break things down by KISS. The company’s website can be confusing at times.

  230. Points collecting and use has let me and my family see more than we could ever have. I am positive that more deals and trips are coming in our future !! Thanks

  231. Points and miles let some folks take trips they never would have imagined possible!

  232. I’ve been getting in on all these mistake fares. God bless the fat-fingered dude at Wideroe!

  233. I also had a super experience with one of the award booking services to find flights before I knew I would be able to get the business class sale tickets.

  236. How else could I afford to travel business class to South Africa? Miles make dream trip happen.

  237. Regardless of any and all devaluations, without these points I could not possibly travel as well as I do, it would be the back of the bus 🙁

  238. I was able to complete the Hyatt Diamond trial status and now have Diamond status through Feb. 2015!!

  239. I am happy about trial elites and the information that I found out on the websites.

  240. I spent years collecting AA miles a novice. I kept dreaming thinking that if I flew a few times a year on business for years maybe, just maybe I could get to 50,000 miles and use those for a trip someplace with my wife. Currently I’m sitting on about half a million AA miles, tons of Avios, about half a million IHG points and bunches of others that I don’t even have time to use all gathered in the last year or so. Thanks to blogs like this one. We keep going on “trip of a lifetime” trips 🙂

  241. Hey ! Almost Free upper class travel and hotels ! What more is there to be said ! It’s the best !!

  243. With thy Hyatt Diamond trial that we were able to get, we are getting upgraded to suites at the Paris Vendome in August!!

  245. Just thankful to still have points to use and I am able to use them for last minute trips that come up.

  246. Our family able to actually “sleep” in all the flight we took to Asia!

  248. Despite the valuations, award flights for premium travel are still the way to go. Who wants to put down thousands of dollars for a full-fare ticket ;).

  249. I love the Dots Lines and Destination podcasts (Pointshoarder). Those guys are a hoot and I learn a bunch. I love this hobby.

  250. In spite of the higher costs, miles still beats having to pay outright for premium seats.

  251. ON THE BRIGHT SIDE (3)

    It’s still pretty easy to use miles to fly locally in Y.
    It’s not the most wanted scenario, but it’s handy. And cheap.

  252. Points and miles can be given away to needy folks facing emergency flights, medical needs, etc.

  254. Even with miles and points devalued so often and so steeply almost daily, it is with our miles and points that we can “afford” to travel and experience so many parts of the world we’ve dreamed about visiting for so long. We hoard miles and points, which I know is a “no-no,” but taking that one great trip a year fulfills our dreams! Thanks for all your insight over the years. Your blog has enabled us to earn and spend our miles and points to the best possible advantage!

  255. You don´t have to go to United, AA or Delta! Let´s use the 2X1 Lifemiles promotion!

  256. Despite all the devaluations and bad news, miles and points remain the best way to get a “rebate” back on your travel spend and cheaper than paying outright for aspirational travel!

  259. I don’t want to spend thousands on airfare to hawaii, so I’m glad the mainland to hawaii award flights did not go up too much

  260. ON THE BRIGHT SIDE (4)

    Let’s face it. Despite all devaluations, we still are privileged. It’s still amazing to explore the world paying very little in air fares and flying comfortably. It’s an exciting time to be alive 🙂

  264. SWA got me my first trip to NYC and an upcoming first trip to Napa Valley! Even after their deval, Rapid Rewards is one of my favorite programs.

  265. Miles are still better than money!!! I can´t afford a business class ticket with money, but can afford with miles! =)

  267. As long as I can fly from NYC to ORD via LAX, I still can earn lots of miles

  268. Miles and points help us able to have 2.5 weeks in Europe for less than $4000. It was such a dream vacation.

  269. Still some great values to be had with Marriott, SPG, even Hilton with 5 nights for 4 on points.

  270. Even with devaluations, i’m still trying to save up for once in a lifetime rewards for my parents!

  271. In five years miles have taken me further then I thought I’d ever get in my lifetime

  272. I appreciate the willingness of everyone to share their expertise with me. I’m fairly new to the game and I’ve learned a lot over the last year.

  273. Despite the devaluation, miles and points still allow premium travel at reasonable prices! My wife and I used miles to fly business class to Europe on our Honeymoon!

  275. Even after trashing their award programs on the net, they still let me fly on their airlines!

  278. We all went to my son’s graduation in Chicago because of airline miles.

  279. I’m thankful for my upcoming trip o SYD on qantas F, for only 140k usairways miles

  280. I love to travel with my adult children. I have learned so much from reading the blogs that I can now redeem points to take them with me on vacations they would not be able to afford!

  281. We are so lucky because most people have no idea about how to travel for free, while we do.

  282. One time someone commented “nice post Octavian!”, that was pretty cool

  284. I’ve been able to give my mom the trip of a lifetime… first class to Thailand!

  285. We are actually thinking of living in a hotel if we relocate for a new job. I would have never thought of that as an option before reading all the online travel blogs.

  286. Still great to be able to find seats at the last minute using miles and not having to pay exorbitant prices.

  289. I like that I get to fly with my wife to places we might not usually be able to.

  293. I love figuring out how to book awards online. It’s such a challenge it’s half the fun of travel.

  296. A (virtually) free ticket to anywhere is ALWAYS worth the effort. Travel is like a fine wine, better each time. Indulge.

  297. I am positive that I will travel more and pay less thanks to boarding area.

  300. The thing I like about miles? How easy it is to accumulate thanks to credit cards and shopping portals

  302. I’m really excited about a quick trip to NYC and some one on one time with my duaghter thanks to points (hilton) and miles (avios)

  303. Something that has happened recently, a schedule change has made my non-swuable itin swuable and a forum friend has very generously given me the swu. Like, luck and love.

  306. I’m planning a driving tour of California and Arizona next month and will be using my points for **FREE** hotel stays.

  312. The HHonors deval, while dishonorable, did nudge me into considering different chains. Now I’m top tier with multiple programs instead of just one…so many more free hotel rooms from which to choose!

  313. Without award miles and points, I would never have seen so much of the world (and from the front of the plane)!

  314. Your daily blog gives us the insight and tools needed to make the most of those often-times devalued points and miles. Thank you!

  315. I miss the days of churning vanilla reloads and bluebird. Without those I could never ever the points and miles I did. Your blog is a wonderful way to learn about helpful tips and deals!!

  317. Something positive about the blogs: Most bloggers are hard workers and strive to produce interesting helpful content. Except for TPG and MMS of course.

  320. The BoardingArea community’s tips have allowed me to see the world with my girlfriend

  321. My favorite redemption so far was being able to fly my friend somewhere. She deserved it, she needed it, and my flying her where she needed/wanted to go brought me more joy than any 1st or Biz Class longhaul ever could have.

  322. I get to travel frequently for work, but miles and points have allowed me to travel with my wife and kids as well. We get to take amazing vacations that we could never in a million years afford!

  323. I enjoy blogs because I learn about all sorts of new and exciting cabins and routes.

  325. Every couple of years I go back to Europe to see my family. I haven’t paid for a ticket in years!

  326. Yes; a lot of devaluations & that hurts, but that is a part of the game. The flip side of it is that the programs are getting more complex. More complex means more opportunities for mistakes and loopholes. So let’s move forward and look for those loopholes!

  327. Thanks to Gary, I’ve been Turkish Gold for a year or so now – free access to UA club lounges!

  328. Earning points and miles has kept me always thinking about where in the world I want to go next

  329. Positive: That man invented the flying machine and we’re able to travel the world.

  331. Points allowed me to take an amazing vacation this month to Paris and London with my girlfriend where I propsed to her and she said YES!

  332. Despite the devaluations, miles inspire me to travel to places I would not consider with $$$

  334. Thank you so much for your posts on your travel forays. I quite enjoy reading about the places you go to that I have not been.

  336. I’m looking forward to completing a Hyatt Diamond Challenge this summer. It will fit nicely with my Hilton Diamond (earned) and Marriott Gold (thanks to my UA 1K)!

  337. Even with the devaluations, I am still traveling far more than I could if I had to pay cash.

  342. There is NO way I could ever dream of afford to sit in business class or first class. With bloggers like you I can! Thanks!!

  343. With points and miles I am going to be able to have an amazing honeymoon next spring!!

  345. Your daily blog gives me the tools and insight to earn and spend my miles and points wisely. The only way to travel – use those point and miles and GO, GO, GO! Thanks!

  346. I’m grateful that I’ve gotten to see so much more of the world than I would have if it weren’t for points, miles, and blogs/forums.

  347. I’m planning an awesome first-class around-the-world trip with my wife next year for our anniversary using all miles and points.

  350. It is still pretty fun getting to travel to amazing places, practically free! I love this hobby!

  352. Still able to travel to visit family on miles even if they’ve been devalued

  353. Thanks to points I can sit in business for less than coach! I am so grateful to bloggers like yourself otherwise it would be coach or no travel

  355. Headed to Syndey in July via Asiana F and TG F for 80K UA miles a person (for 2 people) before they devalued Partener awards

  356. I’m grateful that via this hobby (obsession??) I’ve managed to experience things and see places that an ordinary individual may never be able to in their entire lives.

    And for that…Thank you, Gary and everyone else who helped.

  357. Just thankful to be able to use the knowledge that I have gained from this blog and others to make memories for my wife and children that will last a lifetime.

  358. Sending my parents on their first-ever international business-class trip to Europe this summer with my miles.

  359. As a teacher, miles and points let me have a big escape once a year, to make sure that I get to keep traveling the world! Many thanks for all of your recommendations, and advice!

  360. Our first big trip to USA and Canada is only a few weeks away using Avios and AA points

  361. Thanks to my fellow travelers, and the bloggers for making every journey an adventure!

  362. Helping friends and family to fly in First Class and stay in awesome hotels when they travel for the once in a lifetime trip!

  365. Life is still about experiences and point collection still makes them more affordable than paying full price. I can’t say that about many of the other experience I continue to pay full price at but don’t get the rewards (aside from CC) – sporting tickets, high-end restaurants etc….

  367. Without all the travel websites and blogs I wouldn’t have been able to travel around the world on a one world ticket in biz class. Thanks.

  368. Miles and points have taken me around the world 6 times in first/biz class. Cant argue with that

  371. Booked my parents on their first ever RTW in J. Half on Thai and the other on Etihad. It’s not much considering what they have done for me but I’m sure they will be thrilled.

  373. I love the camaraderie of points enthusiast sharing tips and advice so that others can benefit and enjoy seeing more of this big world on an affordable scale.

  376. Miles allow me to get home to my family more often than I otherwise would be able to!

  377. A big positive for me is Alaska Airlines and their great elite benefits. I switched my loyalty from United when I moved to Seattle last summer and the difference is staggering. Way more flexibility in changing/canceling tickets for free, better upgrade likelihood, but most importantly, their customer service and staff are so helpful and friendly!

  378. I’m looking forward to a phenomenal trip all on miles and points next year. I appreciate everything I learned from to community

  379. Alaska Airlines credit card sign ups will allow for a winter trip to see the aurora!

  381. I’m constantly amazed at how much I learn from this community. Always a great resource to help earn and burn valuable miles and points. So thanks for all your help.

  382. points have allowed me to visit people and places I normally wouldn’t see

  383. Miles and points have allowed me to make friends all over the world. More than any tourist site, historical site, etc…..the friends I meet are what I take with me.

  384. I am positive that my wife likes this hobby more than fantasy baseball. Free tickets to see the Grandkids explains a lot.

  387. To all those that helped me through articles, threads, DOs, or however we crossed ways: Thank You.

  389. After carrying around 120,000 avois miles for many years with no idea how to use them, I learned to use them for US travel for cheap points!

  390. Its always a pleasure to read your blog and learn from your wealth of experience.

  391. I’m seventeen years old and just got back from a Mother’s Day surprise to trip to Italy with my mom. I would never have been abel to do that without miles & points!

  395. Like Gary’s ‘View from the Wing’ blog – quality of trip reports, variety of topics, useful tips, etc.

  396. Such a rewarding hobby! I love baseball and football, but they don’t get me flying business class to Europe! haha

  399. The game is still a blast – we got to go to hawaii in first class last year, and we leave for SE Asia via Europe in 2 months via F/J – no way in the world we could have ever afforded either trip in F without miles!

  401. Miles and points still allow for otherwise unattainable travel. Love it!

  402. Miles and points have introduced me to some of the nicest, most like-minded people I’ve ever met!

  408. The companion pass from the Alaska credit card helped us go to Hawaii for a very reasonable price!

  410. points and miles let me take my family and extended family to Hawaii for way less than it would have cost out of pocket.

  412. Miles & Points blogs, websites, and strategies have been a great way to distract me from work. I think that’s a positive. I count it as such, at least 😀

  415. Co-workers and friends are amazed at the stories I tell them about accumulating miles and points – I’ve brought a couple of them into the fun, but most of them just shake their heads and say it’s too much to understand…I’m still trying to teach them though!

  419. Miles and points have opened doors – I’ve made some valuable business connections through volunteering strategy on miles & points!

  423. Like my first comment, it all comes back to being able to enjoy moments with others. I am single, never married, so I don’t often fly with someone. However, I had a companion pass from a DL Amex. When a friend was going through some stuff I told her to choose any place in the Lower 48 and we’d go there, and she could use my companion pass. We had a great time in Colorado.

  424. I learn about which credit cards to apply for and which to avoid by reading these blogs.

  426. Credit cards allow the acquisition of miles reasonably quickly and at low cost.

  427. At the end of the day, you get an opportunity to travel relatively inexpensively (even with taxes and fees) — and if you plan well, you can manage some amazing trips. It’s all about strategy.

  428. Flying to LAX-LHR in Sept. so we can see Kate Bush perform her first concerts since 1979. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that would have been inconceivable without our stash of AA miles and Carlson points. Miles/Points allowed us invite a friend to come along which will add to the fun, AND it freed up enough money to buy tickets for a second concert.
    Thanks for doing what you do, Gary.

  431. Miles and points have saved me thousands and allowed me to see so much more of the world than I would have otherwise!

  432. Some of the most arbitrary TSA regulations are getting rolled back and the deadlier backscatter scanners seem to have gotten less common.

  433. For short notice trips, family emergencies. This is where non-US currencies are good as they rarely have close in booking fees.

  434. From newbie to mid tier expert I was able to book 2 different awards for my family (5 adults) which would have been almost impossible without these blogs info

  436. The sign-up bonuses keep increasing and the number of cards that offer them as well. If you keep up with the game, you can easily stay ahead of the devaluations!

  437. miles & points have literally enabled me to travel the world for the past few years, visiting all 7 continents, and getting a real taste of what makes the world so great.

  438. I used to book business to Asia using US Airways miles. With the devaluation, now I’m flying First Class instead for only 10k more than a business class seat.

  442. I’ve been able to stay at several Holiday Inn & Crowne Plaza hotels for next to nothing (5K points) thanks to Point Breaks specials.

  443. Glad there is a community of people who think about travel in a similar way I do

  444. Travel is….and always will be… a wonderful experience. To share it with others makes it all the more memorable. Miles and points help to make it all possible.

  446. Although I have learned a lot from yours and others blogs but I still feel I need to do a better job with mistake fares. I have yet to capitalize on this oppourtunity

  448. I redeemed a Southwest Standard Award for Thanksgiving travel on 2 days’ notice last year for travel on the two busiest travel days of the year: Wednesday and Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend. Talk about a holiday gift!

  449. We can still travel the world in premium style with very little effort and very little cost.

  451. For now, anyway, American has pretty good prices for Asia in business. Low season coach to Europe is great as well.

  453. The world of miles and points has been an eye opening experience, both in terms of travel and what I learned about managing optimally my credit/finances. Thanks to FT, Milepoint and the various blogs that have guided me along the way!

  454. With miles I was able to take my wife to London for New Years. I could not have done it without the miles.

  455. A few years ago I could not imagine in my wildest dreams travelling in business and first class. Thank you view from the wing. You rock.

  456. Information on how to earn miles and points and spend them in the best ways possible is more available than ever. Thank you social media!

  457. The amount of cards hitting the market are making the devaluations bearable.

  458. There are still some great value awards, for those based in Asia. For example, US Air North Asian awards can take you from Korea all the way to the ‘stans’ for a very low redemption..you gotta know how to take advantage of the differences in region classifications between the different airlines.

  459. (Entry #4): And I’m thankful for the fact that people still take the time to help each other out on FT, etc., even with all of the deal-killing and negativity as of late.

  460. Points and miles allow me to work less and travel more. No complaints here!

  461. Without the travel blog world like Boarding Area there is no way I can acquire so many miles and points quickly AND use these miles & points for luxury family travel and help family members during emergency time.

  463. Club Carlson credit card = last night free on award redemptions + 40,000 points each year. Makes the annual fee totally worth it!

  466. Premium cabin tickets are going up in price faster than premium award prices, in general. And even then, premium awards are still a great value for my alliances and routes.

  468. I have to give a shout-out to the Club Carlson hotel loyalty program. They recently hosted a 24 hour Twitter party with a ton of great prizes (including points!). It was nice to see a loyalty program giving back to its’ members!

  469. I flew my first ever trip in F, international long-haul, and loved it; all thanks to miles!!

  470. How else could I have traveled around the world so many times on a teacher’s salary?

  471. Miles and points let my wife and I take my sister-in-law to Ireland for the trip of a lifetime.

  472. About to start a great trip to Asia with my brother which, if I wasn’t obsessed with miles and point, would have costed us many times more than what we’re going to pay!

  473. At this point in life, my redemptions are domestic but I’m earning points for the day when they will be international. This hobby has encouraged me to dream!

  475. Miles are still the best way to get into the first and business cabins despite their cost.

  478. My favorite thing about miles and points are the ability to experience different countries, cultures and of course food!

  483. I recently saved a boatload of cash for a flight using miles; and the booking took 15 minutes or less! 😉

  484. Being inspired by all the others things people do and the amazing trips they take

  486. We’ve earned multiple free trips to family. Had wonderful experiences we otherwise couldn’t have afforded. Got upgraded to amazing suites in numerous places by Hyatt, Starwood and Hilton. What more to ask for?

  489. It’s still relatively cheap to fly business class with miles. All you have to do is open up a credit card.

  491. Miles still offer the opportunity for many of us to travel the world for virtually free and experience things that would never be possible otherwise.

  492. Just came back from a family trip to Disneyland all on points/miles. Planning another trip family trip to Cancun next April on points/miles. What more could you want?

  493. One thing that will never change for me is the tingling sensation I get once I “pull the trigger” on an award ticket. There is something purely magical about that feeling when you set up the perfect itinerary, click to reserve button, and see a confirmation number pop up on your screen.

  495. Even with the devaluations, it is still possible, with a little work and help from the blogs, to redeem miles for first/business class tickets.

  496. reqardless of devaluations miles and points still are taking me farther than money could!!

  497. I just used tips from your blog (and others) to have an amazing Southeast Asia vacation. Koh Samui was one of the best places I’ve ever been. Thanks so much for all the blogging you do, both about earning points and about spending them.

  498. Gary, there are still award deals to be found…but to find the good ones, it’s necessary to ‘dig’ a lot and never give up. I’m holding two business class tkts to Istanbul on Turkish Airlines later this year and I look forward to enjoy those lay-flat seats for almost tweleve hours!

  499. I started this miles-and-points hobby only about 1 year ago. Even though it is said to be a tough age, award tickets still saved me 2-3 thousands dollars!

  501. Its so easy to manufacture spend cheaply. You can earn all the miles you need for any trip, even after devaluations

  502. Collecting miles (/etc) is a way of accruing value that would be otherwise left on the table. Even if recent changes mean there is less available value today than there was a year ago (other things equal), we’re still getting (significant) value we wouldn’t otherwise have had. Seems crazy to ignore an available upside simply because there used to be but no longer is an upside that was even larger. No?

  503. I am incredibly grateful that I am in a position to enjoy enough disposable income that I have always been able to travel. I’m also very grateful to this blog for helping me top lean about maximizing my points & miles to make those experiences even more amazing.

  504. Even with the Southwest devaluation we are getting great use of our companion passes and traveling as a family during Thanksgiving to Puerto Rico!

  505. I’m in the middle of a two week, 18,000 mile, 6 country, FREE trip, thanks to making the most of business travel and credit card spend to maximize mile and point accumulation. Better yet, it’s all business class air travel and stays at mostly 4- and 5-star hotels. As I write this, I’m looking out over Manila Bay from my 30th floor room at the Hyatt Regency Manila. I owe it all to the points, and to bloggers like you!

  506. I learnt about miles and points things from these blogs. I already have applied and approved for many cards and also learnt to meet min spending on these cards. I got to learn about value of these miles when i had to travel to India on an emergency. Thanks a lot for all the help.

  507. In Bangkok I used Club Carlson points to stay at the brand new Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok. It’s absolutely gorgeous! They did a phenomenal job, and I was able to use my Club Carlson Visa points to stay there for free.

  508. Even with the recent changes, there are still great deals and free and cheap travel to take with miles and points.

  509. I have friends who moved to Singapore in 2010. Singapore’s a very expensive destination, so it would have been tough to visit them without spending a fortune on airfare and lodging. Miles and points to the rescue!

  510. No matter how much points get devalued, I still feel fortunate to be able to use them to have incredible experiences that might not otherwise have been possible.

  511. I love how willing the miles and points community is at sharing (in detail) how to earn and burn for maximum advantage and enjoyment!

  512. Trying to find those vanilla reloads was the thrill of the chase what a drug free high!!

  513. I am currently planning a trip to BKK, and this site has given me all sorts of thoughts about how to go about it. Thanks.

  515. In the end the discovery of the points world 3+ years ago has changed my family’s life. I never would have dreamed of doing what we have done in the last couple of years and what we have planned in the coming year. Despite the devaluations, it still provides amazing opportunities!

  517. Miles have allowed us to travel the world for a fraction of the cost that we could have otherwise

  518. One of my favorite things is the blogs! I know there’s been so much hate towards bloggers, they are blamed for everything and I think people are just plain jealous. Its so funny though because people claim to hate all these bloggers but yet they just cant stop reading them because they always seem to know what they are posting. Anyways I appreciate the blogs like Gary’s, keep up the great work.

  519. I love being able to stay in hotels that are way out of my pocketbook range

  521. Delta remains the best domestic airline for using credit card spend to reach elite status.

  522. Gary, I for one, appreciate the depth to which you often go in explaining you points of view. I’ve never felt you wrote too long a post.

  524. I stayed at the beautiful Conrad Koh Samui earlier this month, using rewards accumulated with the HHonors credit card. The hotel and its surroundings were beautiful, although the hotel was a little over-the-top for me. I first read about Koh Samui (and the Conrad) from your blog; I’m thankful that I was able to visit just a couple years later.

  525. I actually think that Hyatt points & cash is an enhancement of the program. I made sure to book some great accommodations in Japan before the devaluation. I am looking at you, Park Hyatt Tokyo suite. But shortly after the change I found some great values with points & cash. My favorite so far is the Grand Hyatt Taipei and I cannot wait for my stay at the Andaz Papagayo in Costa Rica too!

  526. I love that points give you the opportunity to travel aspirationally in a way that you otherwise may not be able to afford.

  527. I’ve learned a lot from reading your blog, and that’s translated to many amazing experiences; thank you.

  528. Without points and miles, I would never have flown Singapore Airlines First Class (due to the error in July 2012) from London to Singapore with the cabin all to myself! What a great true international first class experience! I would also have never stayed at the Park Hyatt Tokyo, Park Hyatt Paris, or the Grosvemor House in Dubai- so many memories thanks to points, miles, and best rate guarantees 🙂

  529. Definitely the community aspect. To know that there are people that share the same passion, means quite a bit.

  530. I love that I just had a $25,000 vacation and only spent $2000 thanks to miles and points

  531. Like Gary’s ‘View from the Wing’ blog – quality of trip reports, variety of topics, useful tips, etc.

    [Note: Posted again as first post from a different computer seemed to get stuck in ‘Awaiting Moderation’]

  532. Thanks to this, and other blogs, I’m about to take my first First Class flight; can’t wait!

  533. I love reading the various blogs on boardingarea every day, so much help in the miles world

  534. I still get to take multiple trips per year with my family. Without points, this wouldnt be possible.

  535. I have been able to travel so many more places due to airmiles than I could have without

  536. Because of points and miles I have been able to show my family the world. My children are now eager to travel everywhere. In fact, all four children also now have started the world of points and miles! The youngest (21)now has enough miles to book a round trip business class flight to Dublin where she will be in school for her master’s degree. I’m so grateful for the blogs/forums.

  537. Some of the hotels that I have stayed at ,due to collecting points, have been more for 1 night than I pay for 1 month living expenses

  538. Before getting hooked on points & miles, I didn’t know the Maldives existed. Now I know it as one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been!

  539. I am able to travel the world, but this would not be possible without points and miles to help defray the costs

  540. Regardless of the devaluations you mention, the miles and points game is still on and we’re still getting travel that we couldn’t otherwise afford.

  541. There are still deals out there, as long as we have the passion for miles/points and the patience to read the blogs everyday!

  543. I read alot on FT and the blogs and it seems like a learn something new every day

  544. A *huge* positive for me is that the devaluations caused me to take a second look and get into more activities that actually earn cash, even though I was retired for quite a long while. I feel very fortunate and a little bit amazed at just how well that project turned out.

  545. I am able to visit places with my wife we normally wouldn’t be able to afford if paying cash.

  546. I have been to Thailand 5x, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia, Guatemala, Belize, and Colorado all in less than 1.5 years

  547. I saved skymiles for two plus years. Finally, I have enough for atl-lhr in BE. Currently, DL lists that as a $6,000 plus ticket. Also, we use Southwest periodically and have used points for flights. Not too bad when you consider that you are going anyway, you’re just getting a little something in return. Now, saving my Alaska points for something big. It may take time since we don’t fly a lot, but still fun to daydream.

  548. I really appreciate the help I’ve received, from all channels, educating me on the miles & points game!

  550. Resorts that cost upwards of $1000 dollars per night would be out of reach for us, we are able to stay at these pricey resorts with miles and points,

  551. And here is a positive about my fellow travelers or at least those of you who blog — I really appreciate hearing all your great trip reports and stories. I feel obligated to single out Lucky and Mr. Pickles, who have provided me with hours of amusement, but everyone who shares is appreciated. I don’t use every — or even most — of your ideas, but I truly enjoy hearing your stories.

  553. Even though I want to qualify for EXP every year with AA, I always make sure to book a few award trips for myself and for my children and husband. This will continue. Life is good!

  556. Devals are no fun, but free travel is still free travel. Maybe it’s not free, but I have flights to MDW, EWR, BOI, PDX and 13 free hotel nights from 4 credit cards and I’ve already used almost half the points before booking any of the above

  559. Thanks to you and your fellow bloggers I’ve learned to travel the world in premium cabins for just a fraction of the retail cost and see parts of the world I’ve only dreamed about.

  560. Thanks for all your help over the past years. We have traveled to Hawaii over 10 times without paying for 1 airline ticket.

  561. 3 recent trips. About $7,000 out of pocket. Thanks to points and miles, over $90,000 in travel. And the experiences: priceless.

  563. One of my favorite things about traveling is taking someone who has never traveled. Yes there are tons of questions beforehand and lots of “hand holding”, but it is a nice reminder of why I travel. Points (especially with credit card signups) have made this possible.

  564. Miles allow me to travel to destinations that I would have never visited if I had to pay for it all

  565. Sometimes you just have to take a moment and enjoy the journey? Plenty in life to be positive about.

  566. WE had great weather in DC this weekend, thinking “POSITIVE” thoughts for weather next weekend in NYC Using Ambassador 2-4-1 @ Intercontinental Times Sq in corner sky suite touring the Concorde & walking n Central Park #164

  567. Oh, another positive I just thought of about my fellow travelers. As a birder, I usually do B&Bs or eco lodges or other places where it’s much more important to stay where the bird is than to get a free or luxury room. Therefore I saw little value in the hotel points game. However, after being prodded by a few of you, I learned that I can sign up, pick the low hanging fruit, and gain a few freebies worth the chasing…not as often as you folk willing to stay in the birdless Maldives etc. but often enough to make it worth the doing. So thanks for that!

  569. Travelling is one of the best things one can do with his time, and to be able to travel more and for less, using miles, is great!

  570. My fourth positive — a fellow traveler/poster just said the cost of limes is coming down. What great news! And I heard it here first…Good luck all.

  571. The miles & points community is like no other — learned a lot from folks like you!

  572. they help me keep in touch with friends who are scattered throughout the country.

  573. I love the miles and points have allowed me to travel to places I would not otherwise have!

  574. There are still good mileage deals out there, and some of the European & Asian programs are gaining luster.

  575. If it weren’t for miles I would never be able to experience first class international travel.

  576. Even with the changes, I still love my free trips. Cancun, here I come. .. Thank you Chase! 😀

  577. Want to thank FT community for being there for my family from 120 deals to VCE to other great deals
    Thank you

  578. Miles and points has taken me places otherwise impossible. For that, I’m thankful

  579. Gary – You are still my go to for travel advice as you experienced in February when there was trouble getting to Kathryn’s wedding. I couldn’t be more thankful for your advice over the years. 🙂 Through you indirectly I’ve visited Cyprus flying first class and taken advantage of stopovers to visit extra cities.

  580. Thanks to all of the bloggers I get to take vacations I would never have taken before.

  586. Even with the devaluation I can still travel coach for free with my family. I am looking forward to fly first/ business in the near future thanks to the credit card sign up bonus still exist.

  587. It was a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! Thanks to those that serve and have served.

  589. The game continues and evolves with the great help from you. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

  594. Thank you for looking our for us, its not all about the commission, you truly care

  595. I have learned so much from travel blogs that have allowed me to travel places I never could have dreamed of!

  596. While it has been harder and harder to redeem for premium awards, I’m thankful for still being able to book last minute domestic flights to see family and friends on a whim with Aeroplan/Star Alliance, Skymiles/Delta, and now Avios/One world. These awards at 12.5k or less each way still make it worth my effort to collect miles.

  599. Despite programs and miles being devalued, there are still some good credit card deals out there, like the Citi/AA 100k miles card. That’s something positive!

  601. How else would I ever get to fly in a double bed with my husband drinking dom in a Singapore suite?

  602. Milepoint has been very enlightening for me and other travelers. Thanks to everyone that contributes.

  603. I am not a frequent traveler but I love your tweets! I love learning your secrets even if I never use them! Thanks for your ecpertise!!

  605. I love using the advice I get online to benefit my family. Thanks to you and the other bloggers!

  607. Even though the price to get the points goes up it’s still great to get cheap flights. Just have to work harder to get the opportunities.Still love it!

  608. Club Carlson 2 night award stays for credit card holders are still around, despite the devaluation. And the card earns 5x.

  609. Regardless of whether or not miles/points programs have been devalued, they still allow avid travelers to dream big and experience trip that might not otherwise be possible!

  610. Three family trips on skymiles including a big one to Hawaii with a free stay at Marriott and a free car from National. I am not complaining.

  612. Because of blogs such as View from the Wing, I’ve built friendships with people from around the globe

  614. Earning miles and points has actually allowed me to be much more disciplined about my spending habits because I have a goal in mind other than the purchase at hand.

  617. Besides devaluations, miles are still providing a way for me to travel without spending a lot of cash. Economy class redemptions has not gone down in value as much as premium cabins did, so it is a bit of a silver lining for me.

  618. The $$$ you can save on hotel stays due to loyalty programs far out weights the negatives associated with the belonging to one of the hotel programs and certainly they cash outlay.

  620. Even when more expensive in points, still great to get flights and hotels without paying cash

  621. I’m a frequent traveller and appreciate the many things I’ve learned from this blog!

  622. The community for this ‘hobby’ is very accommodating and helpful; love being a part of it.

  624. I appreciate the transparency of Gary and most of the bloggers on boarding area!

  625. Because of your blog and postings I have learnt about flyer miles and have flown for free domesticly the past couple years and am loving it, so kudos to u. I’m still learning the ins and outs of it all and hope to never pay for flights thru this.

  626. This hobby has allowed me to share experiences with my friends and family that we otherwise wouldn’t have had.

  627. I’m new to travel and really enjoy learning from you! Thanks bunches!!!

  628. I love the great SPG platinum re-qualification gift for 2013. Here’s to hoping the do something nice like that this year too!

  630. I love being able to fly premium class on long-haul flights without spending an arm and a leg!

  633. I love the new partnership between Chase & Singapore. It’s great to have more options for transfers!

  634. Blogs are like the daily news in the world of free (or close to free) travel. I depend on them to alert me to the great deals and opportunities.

  636. Miles, points, and blogs like yours have helped me fulfill my travel dreams. Thanks Gary!

  638. Still being able to redeem Christmas flights to visit home is worth all the negative devaluations!

  639. So grateful for Alaska Airlines companion pass. Has allowed us to do trips not otherwise affordable for us.

  641. “It’s been a tough 18 months in the frequent flyer world”, but I traveled more often thanks to Gary and a few other bloggers.

  642. Even in light of devaluations, miles and points provide all of us with experiences we wouldn’t have had without them.

  643. Just wrapping up my last pre devaluation UA trip and they are still special as they let me change it up even after travel commenced which allowed me to get out of BKK after the coup. Thanks UA and thank you Gary and the other travel bloggers for all the advice over the years.

  645. By focussing my loyalty on a small number of airlines and hotel chains, using shopping portals and judiciously applying for credit cards offering lucrative sign up bonuses I am able to fly first class domestically and stay in suites at luxury hotels, all via elite status upgrades. And even though I am no longer earning as many redeemable miles as I used to (because of Delta’s devaluations and shift towards a more revenue based program), I will still be able to splurge on a once-a-year luxury vacation with my partner and the occasional business class award ticket when traveling internationally for work.

    I think that regardless of what the airlines do to change their programs, there will always be fantastic points and miles opportunities for the traveller willing to put in a little time and effort “researching” (i.e., reading blogs!).

  647. I’m a grad student and don’t get paid much. I get a lot of joy in knowing there are ways to travel and see the world on the cheap using miles and points 🙂

  648. I grew up feeling I always disappointed my parent. Then I got them cheap business class tickets to Europe — which their tired, old bodies greatly appreciated — and the old regrets just floated away.

  649. even with the devaluations I am getting better bang for my buck than if I was paying for flights out right. thanks for all the advice.

    cheers
    jh

  650. I have so much fun reading all the blogs on the Boarding Area – a great way to keep updated in the points and miles world.

  653. I love the sense of community on blogs and how everyone is helping everyone out!

  655. I have learned so much from this site and I have been able to take my family on a variety of trips we could not have taken otherwise. We just got back from a great holiday weekend trip that would have cost $2100 if we hadn’t used points. Price after points – $126.00!!

  659. All of us owe everything to Randy for starting Flyertalk, and now Milepoint. We wouldn’t be here without him.

  667. It may have cost me more points than it would have a year ago, but I was still able to take my girlfriend on a business class trip to Paris in July. Both of our first time ever doing a transatlantic flight in anything other than coach.

  670. Miles/points has allowed me to book 2 business class flights to Asia for my parents. It is their first time to Asia since immigrating to North America over thirty years ago. That made me feel good.

  671. I would not have traveled without points. It has opened the door to distant travel never seen possible. The more I read the more I learn from fellow travelers which has made it more rewarding.

  673. Nothing better than traveling around the world in premium cabins for very little cost.

  675. Saving for miles gives me a goal and routing everything through my credit cards and online shopping portals makes me pause before every dollar I spend, so I’m actually more disciplined about my budget!

  677. Anything that can earn me a few free nights in a classy hotel in Paris is worth it in my book.

  678. I love that bloggers like you share information with travelers like myself to make traveling as easy as possible. (For a newbie like myself, traveling is not exactly easy.)

  680. It’s gotten harder, but the long and short of it is that miles and points still allow me to travel and take my family to places that I otherwise wouldn’t be able to go!

  683. I love traveling but also love the game. Sometimes I’m not sure which I like more!

  684. Miles and points helped get my soon to by wife and I a honeymoon in Bali & Tokyo for just $90/taxes and fees total!

  686. Learning how to travel using miles and points has expanded my travel dreams and made me realize that my bucket list is doable.

  688. Redeeming for first class flights and luxury hotels I could otherwise not afford sure makes it all worth it.

  689. We were so inspired by Gary’s review of Conrad Koh Samui that we booked a stay. We had a wonderful time! [Unfortunately, we didn’t get the same great rate with points as Gary did, nor get the 2-bedroom villa, but didn’t do too bad and was a much better value than post-devaluation that’s for sure.]

  690. I’m still getting amazing value from points and miles. I might not fly Lufthansa First again anytime soon, but I just spent a week in Mexico with family for less than $400 all in. That’s a week that I wouldn’t have had with them without this hobby!

  692. With a completely flexible schedule this summer before I start grad school, I was able to book an open jaw ticket to Europe to maximize the number of countries I can visit.

  696. I am also going to add that without miles and points, my family and I probably wouldn’t travel in business class (first time ever for them) for one of our big international trip for their milestone birthday. They still talk about that trip fondly — just lots of special memories.

  697. Blogs and forums can be helpful with methods of miles and points accumulation but I also enjoy them for seeing reviews of aspirational redemptions that I can dream about and eventually go on the same or similar trips.

  698. I like using points and miles to travel in a way I never could have imagined when I was younger. Now that I’m approaching 50, traveling has become just as exciting as my post-college backpacking trip across Spain. Ok, a different kind of exciting.

  699. I was able to take my son to see her GrandMa for free after 2 years, what’s better than that !!!

  700. I love the openness of the frequent flier community, that people share and spread their tips and knowledge. I have learned a lot from it and have try to share back as well.

  701. I like how miles can help my family travel and see places that would have otherwise been unattainable.

  702. Still a great way to travel more for less even if it’s not as good as it once was

  703. Fflying for free is alive and well.The points game is always exciting handling the constant hurdles thrown at us.

  704. Great that the community still comes together and posts great deals and tips. Additionally, while many changes have been made to AA’s system, there are still great benefits and the ability to use avios is very helpful.

  705. I added a trip to visit Mom over Christmas to a trip to Europe this summer for $5 and no extra points! That rocks!!

  706. Miles and points have helped me to travel beyond my wildest dreams and they are amazing!

  707. For blogs, I actually really enjoy reviews and stories from blogger’s trips. Those reviews have come in helpful, especially if I’m deciding two very similar hotels. In fact, I have done that just very recently, so the reviews offers an interesting perspective for me and helps me to break my tie-breaker.

  709. Avios redemptions that are less than 500 miles are still 4,500 points in economy

  711. The miles and points are still only a bonus for traveling and a lot of purchases you make you get nothing extra.

  713. Club Carlson credit card is a superb card -thanks to fantastic redemption policy.

  714. At least I can get a Round trip to Tahiti from Shanghai in Couch with only 30K UA miles.

  715. Hassles notwithstanding, we’ve taken free trips to Cancun and Moscow this year. And it’s not half over yet!

  717. I am looking forward to using my points towards my honeymoon. The wedding is all about the bride but the honeymoon is all about the groom!

  718. FTU and similar events can be a great resource too. I met some great people at the one I attended.

  719. Even with devaluations, miles and points make it possible to see things in a way I couldn’t otherwise afford.

  720. I’ve been flying for forty years. I still can’t get over how I can be on one side of the globe one day and the other side the next.

  722. I haven’t taken a trip on points in 6 months and I’m itching to go again. Thanks for all you do!

  723. Hey free points and miles are awesome, sometimes better than others, but always awesome!

  724. Thanks to the Biarding Area bloggers and FT my parents will be traveling to Europe for their first time and going on first class no less!

  725. I love when I read about all the great deals. I was able to score a $400 flight to Norway thanks to all the amazing boarding area blogs!

  726. The ability to take my family of four on annual vacation to new and exotic places for minimal cost is only doable to having the ability to earn and burn miles.

  727. I’m flying in premium cabins to Asia for a wedding this winter, which is still only possible for me through the use of miles.

  728. The opportunities to see the world , and visiting places I had never even thought were possible!

  729. Thanks to this blog, I just got a Barclay’s US Air card and 40k miles. Thanks!

  730. Thanks to all these amazing blogs, I have status in every hotel chain. Such a nice perk when traveling.

  732. I have used miles and points to fly to South America for free for three weeks last year.

  733. I stayed in five star hotels on a trip to Paris for free thanks to the boarding area bloggers!

  734. I love that the points/miles “community” is full of folks who love getting a good “deal,” even if it means jumping through hoops to find the best ways to earn and burn your points for great travel.

  735. By reading blogs, I learned how to use Avios points for great hotels stays, too.

  736. I flew an internal Russian airline (Saravia) last week that’s based out of a single airport. New Embraer planes. Leg room. Clean. Pleasant flight attendants. I regretted the flight was only 80 minutes out of two days of flying to get home. It was surprisingly pleasant.

  737. By reading forums, I learned everyone has to start somewhere and it doesn’t hurt to ask for assistance.

  738. I can afford to take more than one vacation a year because of points and miles! Life is too short not to take advantage.

  739. I love sharing with my fellow travelers, where to learn about miles and points on blogs and forums.

  740. Every day is another opportunity to go somewhere we haven’t yet been, so every day above dirt is, by definition, a good day.

  742. Travel is worth jumping through hoops. In the meantime, I believe that the race to the bottom will soon turn around.

  743. My wife and her mother are taking a 3 week trip to Europe in business class, staying most of the nights on points. All of this was paid for from this hobby that blogs and FT helped me learn. Thank you! My wife and mother-in-law are actually airborne on LH429 right now.

  744. Yours and other boardingarea blogs are a great resource for understanding the anatomy of booking an award. Despite the devals, the MS & churning game is still interesting to me.

  747. The opportunities that travel provides provide memories of a lifetime, no matter how much the game changes

  748. Despite all the negatives, I have really benefited from collecting points and miles over the last few years. I’ve been able to go places, do things, and live out experiences I never could have afforded otherwise. And thanks to blogs such as Gary’s, I have become much more educated on how to better maximize the points and miles I collect…especially needed given the rash of recent devaluations.

  749. I have been all over the US, to Japan, Hawaii, New Zealand and Australia, all while flying up front and staying at posh hotels for essentially pennies on the dollar. All thanks to this little hobby.

  750. I am new to the world of miles, previously being happy to earn with credit card purchase with AMEX redeem for where I could. Since last year we’ve flown to England on Virgin Altantic with ANA miles transferred from AMEX and are going to Australia and Japan with Skymiles and United miles acquired with a buy miles bonus and sign up offers. This hobby has been berry, berry good to me.

  751. One big positive for me is that there are more and more blogs and forums that have given me useful information and travel tips.

  752. I have learned so much/saved so much/traveled so much, thanks to you and you fellow bloggers! Keep up the good work.

  753. Just booked my family of 5 for Hawaii on Thanksgiving week! My first booking on miles earned. I am very grateful for all that I have learned on your blogs!
    Thank you for sharing!

  754. I am glad to see that the Delta Award Chart for 2015 has not increased the award costs for a basic 25 K round trip in the US

  756. Love the blogs and all the help I get (and have received) to navigate the world of miles and points.

  758. What I like about blogs is that it really is a great way to keep up to date with all the changes going on with the points system and how I can best utilize my points through tips and shared comments by other travelers

  759. Via this hobby, I was able to have my dad fly in First class. Sleep in a bed in a plane. Get picked up by a chauffeur.
    I got to make him happy.
    So,Thank you.

    (Now everything feels shabby. 😉 )

  761. I love that miles and points have taken me (along with family members and friends) to places I only ever dreamed of getting to visit as a kid growing up in a small town in the Midwest.

  762. I never even knew about the miles and points possibilities before, so I think it’s all great!

  763. Because of miles I’m taking an epic trip to Tokyo and Amsterdam in the fall!

  764. Thanks to miles and points, we’ve been able to help out friends with trips they wouldn’t have been able to take otherwise.

  767. Happy to be traveling on a Star Alliance award ticket in July to Paris and Tokyo….and not stuck in coach!

  768. I’ve been able to see so much of this world, and none of this would have been possible without miles and points. Despite all the devaluations, I’m still thankful for all the opportunities out there!

  770. Miles and points and the aspiration all trips they allow are a nice reward for spending much of my life on an airplane

  772. It was great that even with the United devaluation we were able to change the tickets afterward at pre-deval prices. I leave on Wednesday! 🙂

  773. Aer Lingus RT BOS to DUB (and then on to London) in October – 4 people, 150k Avios booked during Amex 20% bonus transfer. Good stuff

  775. The community of travelers here and around the web has been so helpful in trying to plan reward travel. It’s terrific.

  776. Miles and points make it possible to take my family on trips we would not otherwise be able to afford.

  777. We can still get credit for referring friends, which makes blogs like this worth the while of the writer (not to say that’s your only motivation!)

  779. Manufactured Spend makes it possible to earn enough points to travel cheaply (even after the increase in award charts)

  780. getting into the miles game has allowed us to travel in business and first class. something that we would not be able to pay for in cash

  781. I love that we still have numerous ways to earn miles to make great travel affordable and memorable.

  783. (Entry 1): Still getting inexpensive/free hotel rooms, status perks in hotels & on airlines….

  784. Upcoming trip with my wife in July: Park Hyatt Vendome – 3 nights using Hyatt CC free nights, followed up with Park Hyatt Tokyo – 1 night using CC free night and 3 more @ 66k points booked pre-devaluation. Total savings = $6053

  785. Southwest Companion Pass – Still the best “value” redemption for domestic family travel. And this year they changed Ts & Cs to expressly include CC sign up bonus as counting towards companion pass!

  786. we get to stay at park Hyatt’s practically for free on points which is incredible!

  787. FINALLY being able to book short haul flights out of DCA using Avios. Happiness indeed!

  791. Hyatt Diamond Challenge – Still good for over 18 months of status with “only” 12 paid nights.

  792. Even with devaluations I always get the information required to stay ahead of the points game from this blog. Keep up the good work!

  793. To me, finding some positive isn’t hard. I still look to the Hilton Honors program for the same award I’ve gotten for a number of years. It went up from 40K to 50K per night, not a show stopper. yeah, I know it isn’t the Maldives or some such but its where I vacation. Thanks Hilton Honors.

  795. There are still opportunities for amazing value out there, but the game has grown more complicated. That just makes it a more interesting challenge to find ways to beat the system!

  798. Blogs and forums have made it so easy to learn so much about how to make good use of the points and miles I already had, not to mention accumulating more simply by getting credit for things I was already doing.

  800. Traveling via airline miles can be so much more cost effective when trying to travel during peak season!

  802. Although the pricing of many awards is up, I find that the supply of miles is equally up – so all in all I feel largely ‘whole’ versus a few years ago.

  803. There are still great opportunities out there. I was able to book a 75k one way award from the US to the Middle East, including a segment in Singapore Airlines suites class

  804. I love World Arrival card. Refund on travel PLUS gaining points on said purchase? Win.

  805. Miles and points, and blogs like these that help us navigate the confusing world, have been great in letting me and my girlfriend have some amazing experiences on a reasonable budget. Thank you!

  806. Points are as rewarding and enjoyable as a whiskey on the rocks after a busy and accomplished working day

  807. I’m very grateful for all the knowledge and experiences that you guys have shared/blogged.
    I have booked our family trip this thanksgiving , otherwise I wouldn’t be able to afford this trip, without the miles and points earned.. Thanks a lot for sharing!

  809. It’s Memorial Day. I have had friends who died for our freedom. I would like to be at least half as awesome as they are/were for doing what they have done for us.

  810. I like how we are able to help one another travel the world at affordable rates using points and miles

  816. I’m thankful for the ability miles give me to visit friends I otherwise wouldn’t be able to spend time with.

  817. The number of helpful hints that I’ve gleaned from just a little reading a day of your blog and other similar sources is pretty incredible.

  822. I’m thankful for FT & MP. Keep sharing guys & keep the nastiness off the sites.

  823. I love collecting miles and points – thanks for the great blog and advice.

  824. The ability to travel where I couldn’t afford to before, even with the rollbacks by almost everyone.

  825. I’m happy that my spouse and I are still smart enough to figure out all the good deals and healthy enough to travel.

  826. With valuable info learned from others, on my way to flying in a premium class to Europe in 2015.

  827. My favorite thing about miles and points is being able to see the world and travel. I never imagined I would be able to travel so much, but now thanks to this blog and learning all about miles and points, I have the chance to see the world.

  828. With the blogs and help from you and many others, you make it seem like the next adventure is easily available.

  830. As long as miles help me get from point A to point B, I’m still a fan.

  831. Insight and the information provided, works around the many obstacles that prevent us from travel.

  832. Have really enjoyed reading all the tips and clues to enhance this awesome hobby!

  834. New to learning about miles and points, but they seem like the best deals to be had.

  835. I’m happy to have enough miles & points to allow family members to travel with me.

  837. It’s great that there are travel bloggers like yourself providing actionable advice!

  838. I’m grateful for travel bloggers for teaching me so much in the roughly 14 months that I’ve been pursuing miles and points. I’m really happy to know about manufactured spending and how to apply for business credit cards. I’m also grateful that I’ve only got 100,000 Sky Pesos to use up before I can move on to better airlines to build miles with. Not having status with Delta has been a plus for me; no regrets about shedding those miles as fast as I can and never looking back.

  840. I love that points have let me stay at hotels I would never be able to afford. It’s fun to see how the rich live and only owe for parking when checking out!

  841. The 99% of fellow travelers that are both curious and helpful on most the blogs and forums, an extra treat!

  842. Finding/reading your blog finally encouraged me to try the Starwood Platinum challenge. Hilton Diamond and a continually disappointed Marriott Silver member was very impressed by my first Sheraton stay – 2 nights down/16 to go!

  843. The best thing about points is the ability to give them away to people who would never and I mean never be able to afford a flight on their own. Yep, I know the points are devalued (thanks for the heads-up BTW) and I am still disappointed with the Hilton Honors program but I am thankful work lets me keep my points and do with them what I will.

  845. I’m thankful of how generous the bloggers are in both advice and give a ways.

  847. I’m grateful that I learned about the southwest companion pass from a blog and have been able to use it for three trips so far this year.

  849. Not only how you educate us about miles and points but also sensitive and graceful you share your thoughts when unfortunate events rise in the travel community. That’s why I am a fan.

  852. UA miles are still valuable and thanks God for FlyerTalk, great community!!!

  853. Travel is my passion. Points and miles allow me to live my dreams for cheap or free. Life is pretty good!

  854. Went to Kyoto, Japan for my 50th birthday, thanks to points. A lovely gift to visit a wonderful place, way beyond my expectations!

  855. I enjoy getting incredible value from my Southwest Companion Pass. What a great deal!

  856. I love the rush of a successful apporama and thrill of deciding how to spend your windfall.

  857. Being able to fly in Business Class for about the price of coach thanks to airlines who allow you to buy miles.

  858. I am relatively new to miles and points. I will be going on my first big miles and points trip to Europe in Bus class and staying in great hotels for 3 weeks for $331 total thanks to your great blog.

  859. I love being part of a community! Sharing tips via twitter, alerting others of great deals from their home airport, meeting up in different cities to compare wallets, and striking up conversations during travel all make me feel like this wide world that we traverse is just a little bit smaller!

  860. First class to Thailand on Lufthansa and Thai, First class back back to NY on Cathay.

  861. I love AA.com for the ease of use. I also really appreciate ‘View a From The Wing’ for the many insights I have gained by reading its contents!

  866. In spite of what people say about miles which are not worth much, you can still find value…

    300k DL SkyPesos for 2 Business Class tickets on Virgin Australia LAX-BNE-SYD-LAX.

  870. We need to remember that compared to the early days of the frequent flier programs we are still much better off now, despite the many devaluations of late.

  872. My husband, son and I just returned today from our first miles/points paid trip to Kauai, HI! I love learning about miles and points and I’m so happy to use what I’ve learned to take my family on an amazing vacation. I used tips I learned from blogs and FT to get an upgraded fully ocean view room and get our economy seats on AA moved to MCE. Now to figure out where to go next!!

  873. Despite some setbacks with loyalty programs, I still feel blessed knowing vacationing in exotic locations is something just a small percentage of the world population gets to ever experience. With that mindset, any little bonus is just some icing on an already succulent piece of cake!

  874. Mile & points are letting me afford a honeymoon that would otherwise cost close to $50,000, with suites both in the air (Singapore) and on the ground (PH Tokyo)!

  875. I love it when flights are on time and flight attendants are good natured…..and these both happen a good deal of the time!

  876. I’m using my frequent flyer miles to go see all my family next month….. FREEDOM.

  878. It can make visiting family possible when it otherwise might be hard. Whether they are sick or just far away it has made it possible for us to get there many times when we otherwise probably wouldn’t have been able to.

  882. Points/miles give me the opportunity to fly and stay in places I wouldn’t be able to otherwise afford!

  883. I love reading blogs and learning not only from the bloggers but from my fellow readers. People are usually so willing to share tips and help each other.

  886. Happy that I booked a Cathay Business class ticket for my mother, which she has never thought off.

  887. In August I will stay at the new Park Hyatt in New York. I could have never done that if not for credit cards and miles/points.

  888. I’m awaiting pointbreaks deals because I’ve scored luxury hotels for $35 in the past and I’m hooked.

  890. I love sharing this game with my son(s) and husband. It makes them laugh to watch me do crazy things with/for points and miles!

  892. My favorite thing about blogs is that it gives me something to do during my lunch hour (including reading this one on a daily basis!)

  894. Sure, they’ve changed a lot of the rules, but in the end, I’m still traveling for a fraction of what it would cost if I bought a full priced ticket, and that’s for not really doing anything more than spending money on my credit card (like I normally would) and getting free miles for it!

  899. Thankfully, American Express has decided to open Centurion lounges in a lot of the places where AA has hubs. That makes the card even more convenient and valuable to hold on to! I’m looking forward to the next perk they offer with the Platinum Card.

  901. Without miles and points I would never be able to book my honeymoon so cheap in comparison.

  903. This hobby helps me stay mindful and protective of my credit (e.g., FICO score), one of my most valued assets.

  904. Even with all the devaluation, all these credit Application in the past two year have help me I understand my credit more and boost my score. So thank you

  905. I’m just getting started with miles and I see nothing but possibility! I just booked my first award flight last week! Can’t wait to do more.

  906. I really enjoy reading travel blogs such as yours. Each post inspires me to keep traveling and expand my horizons!

  907. this hobby lets me spend more time with my family….we get to visit each other often!

  908. Without miles and points I wouldn’t have ever flown on British Airways 747 first class, a dream since I was a child!

  909. I love the generosity of the blogger community to share all the tips and tricks for free, and for your willingness to answer my emails personally! The trips I’ve done the last 3 years wouldn’t have been possible without these sites, I’m extremely grateful!

  915. I appreciate how travel blogs like yours teach how points can be used across various partnerships.

  916. United’s devaluation finally kicked me into booking some amazing partner first class travel!

  917. I love the anticipation of an upcoming award trip. I’m taking my 14 year old to HKG in Cathay Pacific first in two weeks. I think she’ll like it.

  918. Manufactured spending has gone a long way to compensate for the devaluations. I can still fly and stay for free wherever I want to go.

  919. Thank you for all your hard work researching and sharing your knowledge of the points game. My travel has become so much more rewarding by playing the points game to fly and stay at places that I always thought were out of reach for me. Thank you!

  921. Thanks to you, I was able to book my dream trip this winter: SFO-HKG-HKT-DPS and back. In First Class. With 2 good friends 🙂

  922. Had a great two for one stay on points at Park Plaza Victoria Hotel in Amsterdam thanks to Club Carlson card.

  923. You have so many followers that I may not stand a chance of winning but I feel like a winner for having found your blog and being able to take advantage of trips of a lifetime

  927. Despite all of the devaluations, most of the business class and first class award tickets are still attainable by miles. I do not think I am able to afford any of these tickets by paying cash!!

  928. I love how points allow me to have luxury experiences that I could never afford in my daily life.

  929. I am so thankful to my fellow travelers who have helped me plan my trips through their useful tips via trip reports.

  931. Even after Hyatt’s devaluation, redemptions are still a good value. Hyatt is also still dependable and has some very nice properties…especially the Vendome – my wife and I stayed four nights in an executive suite there over Christmas this year using points.

  932. I have used miles and points to offset the costs of traveling for myself and my family. Your blog provides a great analysis and teaches me a lot about earning miles and points. Thank you.

  933. Despite the fact that every so often the value of points decreases, we are still getting our travel subsidized for spending we would do anyway

  935. What I appreciate the most about the frequent flyer community is the sense of camaraderie that we share. Everyone shares tips for traveling more comfortably, with children, on a budget, etc. It’s a real community with a real sense of support and friendship.

  936. What I like is that, no matter how difficult airlines or hotels may make it for people to be able to afford travel, people still make travel a priority, simply because they consider exploring the world beyond their little circle of comfort to be vital to their health, happiness and existence. That gives me hope!

  940. Thanks to points and miles I get to experience flying First Class once in my lifetime. 🙂

  942. There’s always a new product to excite us and change the game, even if it is temporary

  944. I have still be able to get International first class flights whenever I have wanted them. I just have to be a little flexible – different airport, routing, or dates, but so far it keeps working.

  946. The Miles game is still on. Thanks to blogs like yours we get valuable information on the best ways to earn a and use miles.

  948. Without the credit card bonuses most of us would not be able to take the same amount of vacations or enjoy the luxuries we get to redeem our points for

  949. Earning miles has helped me pay closer attention to my finances which in turn has helped me improve my spending habits, my credit, and has helped me get a lot closer to some dream vacations I never thought were possible!

  952. I recently took a trip to Singapore and paid for the trip mostly with miles and points. I have learned a great deal from the frequent flyer community.

  954. Love how (relatively) cheap it is to fly business class (in some cases, even cheaper than economy!

  955. Ecstatic to be able to stay at the Park Hyatts Paris and Tokyo at 22k per night before the devals!

  957. Love the chance to be able to see my family in India and not worry about a giant dent in my savings!

  960. Even as the airlines try and cut back on the spending of points and the hotels start to fill up leading to lower amounts of room availability…free is free (even with its inconveniences)

  962. i am soo glad i stumbled upon your blog. i am not too familiar with all of the “lingo” quite yet, but i’m learnig daily!
    hope to accumulate miles quicker by following your sdvice!
    thanks greg

  964. Can’t wait til I can fly in First Class for the first time with my newly acquired Citi 100k AA miles from the Exec plat card!

  965. Big bonuses – I picked up the 100K Citi American bonus plus a bunch of others.

  966. On miles and points I have been fortunate to visit places that I could have never dreamed of seeing otherwise.

  967. Last minute points travel is the best type of roulette. My first trip to Seoul came about because I told the Aeroplan CSA to “Get me anywhere I’ve never been before…. in First”. Hello Korea!

  971. One card can equal a free roundtrip from US to Europe. Can’t beat that!

  973. What a great community that shares so much information! All the tips help me travel better and more comfortably.

  979. I love miles and points because I’m a missionary in mongolia and it helps me to fly back to the States and other places without having to pay too much money. =D

  982. Also I appreciate how the travel community shares info and helps each other out. That’s great!

  983. Regardless of devaluations and downturns, there are always new ways to earn miles and points. The game is still on and the opportunities are endless.

  986. I know it’s tough to stay positive when the airlines pull garbage like this. But thank goodness for all of us that we have resources like you and others to read between the lines and bring all of this to our attention. We’re smarter consumers and all better off for having you.

  987. As a retired person, my frequent flyer miles have allowed me to travel to many places on a limited income. What’s not to like about that!

  988. I just had my husband fly with me for the first time using our new Southwest companion pass. I used miles & he flew free! It doesn’t get much better than that!

  989. Love LH First and its FRA lounge showers- my blue rubber ducky on my vanity always brings a smile to my face! Never would have known such luxury without points and bloggers!

  990. Miles are next to free stuffs in this commercialized world. It’s not only positive, but miraculous!

  992. Without all the blogs I would never have been able to take trips with friends and family which I will remember forever.

  994. I can only afford to travel frequently to see family and friends because of points I have collected from the knowledge from reading this blog. Blog and this hobby has helped me save money which allow me to contribute to my retirement savings. Thanks hobby and a wonderful blog.

  995. Love miles and points because it can be a godsend when you need to make a last minute trip!

  997. My last flight, compliments of Alaska Airlines mileage, I was able to meet my biological son FOR THE FIRST TIME! He ‘found’ me in 2013 and we spoke on the phone, texted, emailed and facebooked — but on February 28, 2014 we met. After a wonderful weekend with his wife and daughter – my husband and I sailed off on a cruise aboard the Sapphire Princess. What good use of Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, I must say!

  998. I love mistake fares. Grabbed two great ones this weekend: $404 flight to/from Budapest, and $30 room at St. Regis DC.

  1001. I’m thrilled that we’ll fly to Sweden this summer in Business Class – practically free. Thank you for convincing us that we can do this!

  1002. IT’s still fun to meet the challenge and find the best ways to accumulate miles.

  1003. 100K citibank signup bonus was found using this great blog site
    Happy to be comment #922!

  1004. Even with all the devaluations, miles and points still allow me to bring my son to visit his great grandparents!

  1005. Haven’t taken advantage of it yet, but plan to take advantage of an IHG Point Break deal someday soon.

  1006. Even with all the devaluations, lots of people like yourself are still helping people like me earn miles and points and find good values for them in the new award charts.

  1007. Using my learning experiences with this blog & the FF community, I’m booked on an upcoming around-the-world first class air trip with a stay at the St Regis Bali. Retail price is $58K. My cost all-in is only $475! Thanks to the bloggers who help everyday.

  1008. Credit cards perks are still good! My favorite are those associated with the Hyatt card: free nights at great properties and (low level) status.

  1010. American agents brought my forgotten laptop to me on layover gate. Completely spaced on an early AM flight, despite the 3 hour layover at DFW they tracked me down. Mind you, laptop didn’t even have my name on it. They just assumed (correctly) must have been the guy who sat in 2A. Superb customer service on most all my AA flights.

  1012. Btw flew business AA A321 product LAX-JFK. All I can say is triple wow. Well done AA!

  1013. Open Question – I’m 25k miles away from lifetime gold on UA. Stopped flying them after CO merger. ..should I bite bullet and get the status?

  1016. going first class to Singapore and Thailand with my wife and son..all on miles. Could not pay for that using $$, so thank you miles!

  1017. All the great things I’ve learned from my fellow travelers, and occasionally running into those folks along the way!

  1018. Because of miles and points, I can still have great travels on my retirement budget!

  1020. Thanks to all the information I’ve learned, and some helpful tools, I’m going on a US Airways N. Asia Award in F & C to Berlin, and Seoul, along with most of my stays covered by Points @ Radisson, Conrad, & Park Hyatt Hotels!

    Thanks!

  1023. I’ve been to the most fascinating places on mileage runs, like Marrakech and Stavanger–two remarkable cities I may have never otherwise visited.

  1024. miles and points have allowed me to take vacations I never would have been able to afford!!

  1027. This miles and points hobby can make you into a Santa Claus as you help your friends and family travel.

  1031. the travel blogs are awesome, they keep me up to date on the latest and greatest offers and deals. It’s helped me a ton! keep it up!

  1032. Points have been the best and have helped me to travel to places I would never have been able to without them!

  1036. Miles and points let me do things that would otherwise take a lot of money! It’s nice being able to travel. 🙂

  1039. I love being able to get first class flights to Europe on United with miles. Even though it costs more in miles now it’s still comfortable and convenient.

  1041. I love the the surprised reaction from my wife when I explain how cheap it is to travel with points and miles!

  1042. I love being able to give my kids qff domestic redemptions so they can explore our big wide land..

  1044. no one believes how easy is to get to different parts of the world for such spending

  1045. Mistake fares/ rates are the best! Currently the Westin Diplomat in Hollywood, Florida is offering a mistake rate of just $10 per night for November 11-13, 2015. Check it out!

  1047. Chase Hyatt credit card still offers 2 free night signup bonus, which made it possible for me to stay at my dream hotel: Park Hyatt Tokyo.

  1050. Could never afford to travel, the way we do and how often we do, if it wasnt the community and its sharing

  1052. Seems like lots of good credit card signup bonuses lately, so I can accumulate all the points I need for all the places I want to visit!

  1054. i love the creativeness and the sharing that happens around this crazy points game!

  1055. By using the forums and sign up to blogs you can find out about offers you might not normally come across! 🙂

  1056. The good news is that I’ve actually used 3 million of the 4 million points I’ve earned sinc originally enrolling in AADvantage. That’s a lot of free flying…. Can’t complain.

  1057. The best part is the chase. It’s fun to find a way to get the best deal on an itinerary that I’m planning to take. Indispensable tool: ITA Software.

  1058. I love how miles make it possible for us to visit family abroad on a far more regular basis than otherwise. My kids have flown 16 flights in 2 years!

  1059. Thank you for all your travel help and the great deals you notify us all about :@)

  1061. Gary, thanks for all of the useful advice and for scooping most of the best mileage deals. Despite the devaluations, I’m still traveling for less, and if nothing, miles and points have been fun to collect!

  1064. We can still fly first and business class and stay in amazing hotels to see the world for pennies on the dollar.

  1066. Amazing luxury travel, like spas in airport lounges, completely change the hassle of our pre miles and cards airport experience. Best was when I brought a friend who was flying on the same flight as a guest into the lounge… She couldn’t believe this existed in the airport.

  1068. Barclays arrival card pays the taxes on award tickets, so our trip was basically free! 4 credit card a bonuses for a free vacation! Amazing! 🙂

  1069. Devaluation may have occurred across the board, but at least we have our health, shelter, loved ones, education, and my favorite… your blog.

  1070. SPG allows you to use points to book and then upgrade using a few more points (yay!) at some of their properties. For example; I booked 5 nights in at the Sheraton Honolulu last year and for a reasonable amount of additional points I upgraded to a suite with a view of Diamond Head. The other hotel chains could learn from them – it creates loyalty!

  1071. Points allow me to visit my sister and baby nephew who live across the country.

  1072. Devaluations aside, I can hardly complain after hitting Wideroe (3x) and the *A Z/P sale (1x)…

  1073. For the past 6 years, I’ve managed to travel the world thanks to the tips in this blog.

  1074. Blogs like this and others have encouraged me to share with my friends as well. They’ve scored multiple trips to Europe, South America, Asia, Hawaii, and more. Sharing is caring!

  1075. My AA miles just bought my round the world first class honeymoon for next year, including First on BA, JAL and Qantas. It’s tougher, but there are still deals to be had with persistence and flexibility!

  1076. I’ve taken 42 flights already in 2014 thanks to credit card sign up bonuses!

  1077. Also let’s not forget we still have some great deals, like BA short-haul awards, LifeMiles, etc

  1078. Upgrades may be getting more expensive, but some airlines still offer systemwide upgrades into flat bed business class seats, a great deal even when looking historically!

  1079. Thanks to miles & points, I’ve been able to easily maintain a long distance relationship! I fly from PDX to CLE at least 2x/month. It’s not the most glamorous destination, but I’m grateful that I’m able to get there for so cheap!

  1080. I’m grateful that my mum is still healthy to travel with me. We just used points to travel to hyatt Maldives.

  1081. In the old days, redeeming American miles meant flying American. There may have been a couple of partners, but it wasn’t always easy to know who or how to book. Between the Internet and airline alliances, there are now many more options for redemption all over the world, and for the committed traveller it’s much easier to find inventory. Changes, but not necessarily for the worse.

  1082. Love the way that Gary finds so much to write about as there is so much to know. Kudos where it’s due Gary!

  1083. Thank you for sharing valuable travel information with the rest of us. I’ve got quite a few deals because of you.

  1084. With credit card earn (bonuses and regular spend) I have way more miles than I used to. I suppose for me I don’t mind spending more, since they’re so much easier to come by than before.

  1087. Even with Delta’s changes, I still plan to fly them because the offer the best domestic product.

  1088. I love how this hobby has connected me with so many people who enjoy traveling and like earning and burning!

  1090. The opportunity to interact with so many others who willingly share their time and experiences. Without them this would be a struggle.

  1091. Getting suites biggest enough for the whole family at low, low rates.

  1092. I love the still very common reaction from friends and family, “You flew/stayed there for free???” They may think it’s a scam at first, but a lot of them do come around eventually.

  1093. Miles have been very very good to me…..even with devaluations I have been able to still travel well beyond my means.

  1094. I am so grateful that through miles and points, I’ve been able to travel to so many amazing places throughout the world almost entirely for free!

  1097. One thing that will never change for me is the tingling sensation I get once I “pull the trigger” on an award ticket. There is something purely magical about that feeling when you set up the perfect itinerary, click to reserve button, and see a confirmation number pop up on your screen.

  1098. Couldn’t be more upbeat. Given that lately well you know you know , the ‘system’ has been out to get eh you know who. Makes it fun. I often like to imagine what possesses someone to be so bored not to collect points ( which is how some stuffed shirts see us) but to actually passive aggressively try to make the use of these programs impossible. The level of rampant negativity towards their occupation, their spouse, their households, must be astounding.

    Roll with the punches. Have a great week.

  1099. I still look forward to some wonderful trips using points that I was able to earn through the help from bloggers. Thank you!

  1102. I learn a lot about hotel/airline travel. I get to stack points which has made me Hilton gold much faster 🙂 love these blog posts – constant learning

  1103. I think it’s great that there is so much information available to take advantage of in planning travel in a smarter way.

    Glenn J

  1104. I have followed your best advice, to use miles as I earn them, cause the devaluing down the line will make them less valuable.

  1105. I am so happy I found this website. I have been trying on my own to make the most of my miles for travel, and following your advice is giving me so much needed information. I’ve noticed the devaluations, but we’ll figure out ways to still fly for free, right?!

  1106. The addition of SIngapore Airlines as a transfer partner of Chase Ultimate Rewards is great news!

  1107. Look on husband’s face when I told him our FC tickets on Qantas LAX-SYD were 145,000 miles and less than $60. He just kept repeating “$60?”. Priceless!

  1108. Despite the devaluations there are still some great opportunities to earn and use points and miles.

  1110. Great tips from all your travel-wise readers. Please continue with your contributions. I’m learning a lot.

  1112. Collecting miles and points has enabled us to see parts of the world we would never have been able to afford otherwise!

  1114. I like learning how to achieve Gold status so I can stay on the Executive floor of Hilton Hotels AND get free internet.

  1115. I’m positive that I will go from being a “saver” to a “spender” of my miles and points now that I know how to replenish them.

  1116. Treat it like a game and have fun with it.
    (Even games can be frustrating at times….)

  1117. Everyone on FT has always been extremely helpful and willing to answer questions!

  1118. Devaluations (as much as we dread and sometimes don’t understand the rationale behind them) are, in the final analysis, a first world problem. Flying internationally for free in business or first class on a mile redemption, even if it “costs” more is pretty darn sweet!

  1119. I love the friendly agents manning the desk at the Miami Admirals Club near D30. The club is pretty nice too!

  1121. We’ve been able to travel and have amazing experiences thanks to the advice and tips we get from folks like you! I’d have never realized it without your help- you’re enabling us to enjoy meaningful travel opportunities!

  1123. the thrill of finally having acquired enough mile to fly in the front of the plane instead of Economy Coach

  1124. I love the daily newsletters from you and other bloggers. They’re super helpful in keeping up-to-date with everything every day!

  1125. Devaluations can be good if they motivate you to work the system harder and use your points sooner!

  1126. Its great opportunities to earn points abound with credit card sign ups and spending.

  1128. One positive is that even with all the devaluations, earning miles and points has become easier through the help of bloggers and bigger sign-up/promo bonuses!

  1129. Being able to take vacations we wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford is a definite positive!

  1130. Great to be able to earn miles across so many different partners (both airlines and non-airlines)

  1131. Thanks to various mistake fares I got to see 3 new countries (India, Dubai/UAE, Italy) this year for under $1K total!

  1132. I just earned my Southwest Companion Pass thanks to this blog, so travel will be half price for the next 2 years! Thanks Gary!

  1133. Credit card bonuses are better than ever these days, so if you play the game smartly, you can save a ton of money on travel.

  1134. It’s good to see the premium cabins of international airlines improving the offering, both in business and first class

  1136. There are still some sweet spots in the devalued charts. Thank you for all your advice!

  1137. It’s great to see other programs like Avianca Miles & Smiles opening up other options

  1139. I rreceived a nice birthday surprise from Marriott – an extra night’s stay towards elite status. Unexpected and appreciated!

  1141. thanks to reading this blog for the last few years, Ive learned how easy it is to accumulate points and enjoy the rewards. Its sad to think how many years I missed out.

  1142. Thanks to blogs like yours and some newer ones that are right up my alley, my skill at miles and points has increased faster than the devaluations. It also happens that most of my travel doesn’t have to fall into the hardest hit categories. This is still a fun game!

  1143. Positive? Hmmm… OK. A hefty miles balance still promotes dreamy fantasies even if they cost a whole lot more nowadays to ‘make real’!

  1145. a. Avios still a great deal for short US trips.
    b. MS still makes me smile every time I go to Walmart!

  1147. Hello, I’ve been able to make several trips to France lately because of cheap (30,000) one-way tickets to Europe in coach on United. Points help democratize travel and culture more generally.

  1148. Through miles/points, I love that I can make use of my hectic work travel to my personal benefit and to be able to experience luxurious vacations which I couldn’t have imagined otherwise.

  1149. The ability to even cover *part* of the cost of a trip by paying with a combination of points + money is helpful to someone who is on a budget!

  1150. The Club Carlson credit card is still a great deal (if you can pass their credit check)!

  1152. By using the forums and signing up to blogs…you can find out about offers you might not normally come across! 

  1153. Credit card bonuses are really great in the US, even if there are devaluations. The bonuses in the UK are not nearly as good!

  1154. When we emigrated to the U.S we had no idea how expensive it would become to visit our family back home; miles and points have allowed us to keep our connections with our loved ones 🙂 Ann.

  1156. The points may be devalued but sitting in a business louge still beats being set loose amongst the hoards!

  1157. I love it when the Marriott desk clerk says, “thank you for your loyalty.” It’s a nice feeling. Without my loyalty (and theirs), my family wouldn’t have enjoyed three expenses paid trips to Disney World!

  1158. Thanks to points and miles, I was able give my 80 year old mom a wonderful trip to Central Europe, including her first flights(and mine) in Business/First class. Thanks Gary for the education.

  1159. you just have to take what they give you and be thankful- these are basically free miles and points

  1161. There are still great opportunities to earn and use points and miles. Stop mooning about the OLD DAYS

  1165. I’m traveling to places I never thought I’d be able to afford to go using points & miles. It’s opened up so many possibilities and I’m travleling so much more. Love, love, love points & miles!

  1166. Love the deals I find on the blogs for maximizing miles. Trip reports are very helpful as well. We are going to Kuala Lumpur in Jan. and connecting through Hong Kong to JFK so am very interested in your latest trip report.

  1167. Devaluations for coach travel really has not been so bad or worth fretting over.

  1168. My husband is the miles guru in our family. I like the hotel reviews on the blogs as they help me decide where we will stay, especially on international trips.

  1169. I just award stayed at Holiday Inn (Porto, Portugal)for 3 nites.We were upgarded to an executive floor with river view, given 3 incredible executibe breakfasts with all stops pulled out and a concierge service that found us incredioble “off-the-beaten-track” restaurants and sites. I am a platinum member of IHG and shall continue to be so!

  1171. Even with the devaluations, I still can travel the world in luxury I never imagined prior to getting in this game.

  1173. Miles have allowed me to travel in First and Business Class, something I would not have been able to pay for.

  1175. I am positively grateful for the incredible trip we just took to Hawaii that was funded by points and miles earned from reading my favorite blogs.

  1176. Whatever the devaluations and changes along the way, I still love the challenge and strategizing that is an essential part of this “game,” the payoffs for which remain wonderful–free travel in and free hotels in some of the most exotic cities in the world! (So “Thanks, Coach View!!”).

  1177. Thanks for the Fairmount tip! I was able to book two free rooms at the Four Seasons in Hamburg!

  1178. Regardless of devaluation, us readers are usually on the cutting-edge of earning miles. That’s got to count for something!

  1179. What other hobby gets you 2 nights in a 900+ Euro/night room for buying a pack of gum!?

    (Thinking of my stay in Paris when the Hyatt card used to be 2 nights after 1st purchase.)

  1181. Bloggers like you give hope to families by making travel possible and memories that last. 🙂

  1182. Regardless of devaluation, it is still possible to fly in suites on the cheap!!!

  1183. I thank God my family is healthy and we are looking forward to our summer travels.

  1184. Wow what a response!

    My favorite thing about points is getting a luxury I would never want to afford on my own …. With the way travel is, that extra comfort and service makes all the difference.

  1185. Writing this from Buenos Aires where our 55000 United miles got us business class on Copa and our 30000 American miles will get us home. Despite devaluations, etc. there are still reasonable redemptions and heck! we’re in Buenos Aires!

  1186. Points & Miles have enabled me to travel to places I would never spend “real” money on!

  1187. I enjoy your articles and have learned quite a bit.
    Travel is still a highlight and I look forward to planning the various trip we take. A gift card will be good for our upcoming vacation to Western Canada.

  1188. Boardingarea and milesandpoints has changed my travel for the better. I now get incredible hotel rates and free flights all the time. I now am averaging 1-2 vacations a month!!

  1190. If it wasn’t for the blogs and forums I would of never learned about status matching 🙂

  1200. Miles allow us to visit family across the country that we wouldn’t get to see as often otherwise.

  1201. The united devaluations for economy weren’t that bad and with a family of four, soon to be five, the premium cabin awards which took the most devaluation are out of reach for me anyway.

  1205. Miles & Points are still a lot of fun to collect and very enjoyable to redeem!

  1207. Still managing to book great vacations. Credit rating off the charts too. This stuff is way too easy

  1208. As a Diamond since Delta started the level, I have been a Fan of Delta Points to keep me up to date on Delta Doings!

  1209. I may not always agree with the bloggers at BoardingArea.com but I do read them and enjoy being part of the frequent flyer community.

  1211. Devaluations are the price we unfortunately pay for saving miles and points for the future, but not everyone can travel a lot at certain points in the lives. At least we can look forward to more opportunities as we head closer to retirement.

  1215. We get to visit our daughter and her family several times a year and never pay for a ticket.

  1217. Seven trips from MI to AZ to care for an ailing relative and their child in 15 months. No way could we have afforded to pay cash for all of this. Miles and points have made it possible.

  1218. Reading the blog is still a great source of entertainment — that is free as well!

  1219. There are several blogs doing private forums to promote safe friendly sharing of info

  1220. Planning my next free trip to Istanbul, with free stays thanks to my anniversary nights from the Chase Hyatt and IHG cards!

  1223. View from the Wing was my first miles blog, so thanks for getting my addicted!

  1225. While there have been devaluations there are still many opportunities for free and discounted travel to fantastic destinations, so all is good.

  1226. Blogs like yours have totally given me the travel bug after years of very little travel owing to having young children. Thanks for all the tips for point earning and saving money!

  1228. My family is going to Italy and Greece on a shoestring budget, but flying in Lufthansa and Turkish Air business class, plus a 7-night Mediterranean cruise at 20% cost, mostly thanks to our used-to-be favorite three letter pharmacy store and those yummy reloads.

  1229. I like following as many blogs as I can because there is so much info out there about miles and points!

  1230. I know flying Saudi airlines using Sky miles ( popularly known as Sky pesos) is not very popular amongst frequent flyers. But i have no problem flying with Saudi airline. Biggest positive is that i can ( and i have ) get 5 business class tickets for the whole family on the same flight going to the subcontinent most of the year. I will take the sky pesos all day, any day.

  1233. The rules may have changed but the game is still on. Travelers are still able to use miles and points to make travel destinations possible that otherwise may have been out of reach.

  1235. So thrilled that I was able to us DL Skymiles in December for TWO F/B tickets from BDL to GIG for my wife’s 55th birthday and then stay at the JW Marriott in an oceanfront room for 7 nights on Marriott Reward points

  1236. I like getting perks for business travel, it’s a nice consolation prize for being away from my family so much

  1237. Amidst the devaluations, there seems to be a new trick or hack uncovered routinely that keeps this game alive and well!

  1239. Just got back from an impromptu long weekend in the country using up orphan points in secondary hotel programs. I now can say something nice even about Microtel Inns and Suites.

  1240. Just booked at $1600 last min domestic econ ticket for 25K Skymiles today….WINNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  1241. Southwest companion pass status is awesome. 1/2 priced Southwest flights for almost two years. Plus you get your first $1650 worth of flights included with your CC points.

  1244. Can INK is the way to goooooooooooooooooooo!!! Excited for another 65K coming!

  1246. So grateful to have booked a business class flight on Swiss Air Boston-Prague this October before the devaluation on United. This will be a long awaited trip we would not be able to afford without using points.

  1247. Thanks to this hobby, I’m thankful to be able to fly to Hawaii to spend time with family.

  1248. Even with declining bad health– traveling– especially for free– always puts a smile on my face. Happy trails to all.

  1249. Just enjoy the “candlelight dinner high above the clouds” on Turkish Airlines and their 3 hour delay will vanish

  1250. Easily managed to use mu USAir points on what was then a fellow Star Alliance partner ” TAP – Air Portugal “. RT flight was honored and we got exit row seats too!

  1251. Frequent Flyers can be a very considerate lot – especially the kind people you have guested me into a BA lounge in the last year!

  1252. Stayed in aspirational hotels like park Hyatt, with just one credit card sign up

  1254. Frequent Flyers can be a thoughtful lot – especially the kind people you have guested me into a BA lounge in the last year!

  1255. At the end of the day, I’m still able to travel in style for less or no money out of pocket than before. Can’t be negative about that!

  1256. Gotta tell you, the glass is ALWAYS half full when you’re drinking it from a free ticketed seat! Thanks for all of the great tips!

  1257. It’s still much easier to obtain premium class or nice hotels through points than paying for them.

  1259. I’m happy to hear when others are able to grab mistake fares in time even if I can’t!

  1260. This blog allows me to maintain my 5-star lifestyle, on a 2-star budget 🙂

  1261. I am new to the points and miles lifestyle and am sooo excited to begin this new chapter in my life! I have found tons of great advice and interested facts on the forums. Thanks for everything that you do to help us!

  1262. Despite the devaluations, frequent flyer miles let me bring my grandmother who lives overseas to visit us in the US on a business class ticket. It’s much more comfortable for her and makes the long journey much more bearable.

  1263. I’m often impressed with flight attendants. I see it as an incredibly tough job and it can be 10 jobs in one. Most people perform with patience and positivity, despite huge challenges from fliers.

  1266. Looking forward to trying out all of the Star Alliance First Class lounges in the new LHR T2 in the Fall – something I could never have done without points.

  1268. I just used miles to fly business class to Tahiti. Now all I need is to get home from Sydney, Australia in business class using AA miles. Thank you for all of your tips!!

  1269. Despite the devaluations, I still am able to travel to places and stay in hotels I wouldn’t be able to afford if I was paying all cash all the time!

  1271. Reuniting with long lost family members at a reunion on the other side of the county because it won’t cost me an arm and a leg. Thanks, points!

  1274. I love the Executive Platinum phone desk. They have always treated me very well.

  1275. Miles and points addiction is positive in that I don’t need to risk my life to get my next fix…

  1277. Sweet spots will come and go, yet we continue to find new opportunities in this game and that’s what makes this not only rewarding but fun as well!

  1280. Despite these changes, miles and points are still the great equalizer for us common folks!

  1281. Thanks to all of your help you make it possible for me to travel. That’s a big positive for me!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!

  1282. I think among all the negative news all FF bloggers agree that Singapore airlines is now part of Ultimate Rewards transfer partner is the most positive news recently!

  1284. Miles have given me the opportunity to fly to places I would never have been able to.

  1288. With miles and points I have been able to experience the comforts of business/first class (particularly wonderful on trans-Pacific flights), which I never would have otherwise!

  1290. I like that there are a few options for “diversified currency” out there now. It makes it easier to be less loyal and smarter about what brand I choose for hotels and air.

  1293. I like that there are still some first class seats worth collecting points for aspirationally

  1294. I like being able to provide travel for family that otherwise wouldn’t be able to

  1298. Being able to stay in properties that I wouldn’t otherwise…like the Park Hyatt Vendome in Parise!

  1299. I really like hearing about first time experiences flying business/first – the excitement just makes me so happy!

  1301. You guys keep up with goings-on in the industry so i don’t have to! Thanks!

  1303. I like seeing all the people excited about traveling. Seasoned pros or newbies, most still get excited when traveling for pleasure

  1306. There are still many great free or reduced cost trips to come… thanks for your blog!

  1308. Love your blog! You give us an opportunity to travel almost for free!!!

  1309. Complimentary upgrades are a nice surprise when I’m traveling with friends and family.

  1310. So its a holiday week and I am not going to the Airport kicking my feet up and relaxing

  1315. Hyatt’s cash and points was one of the most positive changes in the points world recently. I’ve utilized it multiple times as of late.

  1316. Great to read the travel reviews, so I can know any insider methods when I go there.

  1319. Thank you for updating everyone on credit card offers. I’m always waiting for your advise in order to apply for a new CC.

  1320. I’m thankful for all of the freebies we’ve been able to partake in so far. Seems like the next big thing is just around the corner, so here’s hoping!

  1321. Every time I travel, I’m reminded how lucky I am to be able to do so, when others have so little opportunity.

  1324. You are doing an amazing job! Keep it this way! And I will keep on suggesting your blog to everyone I know ;o)

  1325. USAir, Malaysian Airlines, TAM, Qatar have joined oneWorld and practical, last minute distance-based awards are easier than ever using Avios. Spontaneity and positioning flights use to be expensive!

  1327. Just happy to be able to travel with my family to a lot of amazing places around the world!

  1328. Delta miles in S. America on GOL Economy are a GREAT value, and they are a rare exception for DL miles that are hardly mentioned because they’re not aspirational.

  1329. Free is free. They won’t go as far or earn as fast but it’s still free. I love free.

  1330. I’m headed to Poland (and a few other places) for 3 weeks next month, with my flights and most hotel nights paid for via miles and points. My grandfather’s family came over from there and I can’t wait to see what the “old country” is like in person!

  1335. Traveling has introduced me to some of the most interesting and generous people I could hope to meet. I love the way they’ve influenced how I think about the world and my place in it!

  1336. Traveling on points and miles makes our family trips abroad each summer affordable so we can spend a month overseas each year. Without points and miles traveling with 4 people would be to cost prohibitive. Thanks to blogs like yours we are able to travel in luxury.

  1337. I’m thankful that I haven’t paid for a flight in over 2 years thanks to this hobby.

  1339. I can positively state that this blog has had a huge impact on my quality of life. My newfound travel savvy has brought me many new friendships and opportunities. Thank-you.

  1340. Manufactured spend is more lucrative than ever, and it can bring in huge numbers of miles for below 1 cpm.

  1341. I love being able to fly premium cabins b/c of points that I otherwise wouldn’tve been able to fly

  1342. And for my 4th entry… Using miles and points gets my to Europe in F and top notch hotels at “no cost”. Never even thought this would happen until reading all the great blogs out there. Including this one!

  1343. Despite the devaluations, I’ve been able to provide my friends and family with opportunities to travel that we couldn’t otherwise afford.

  1344. Love the camaraderie among travelers, especially when in a less than ideal situation. We all stick together.

  1345. I’m thankful to bloggers like yourself that taught me so much about this hobby!

  1346. There are so many changes, yet everyone is so knowledgeable and helpful in keeping us up to date!

  1347. I’m excited to take advantage of what I’ve learned on my next trip to Europe this summer!

  1348. Points have helped me treat friends and family, which is tremendously rewarding, even when it’s not somewhere aspirational. Being able to surprise people you really care about with a flight or a few hotel nights is so fun, and since I’ve gotten into the miles/points game I’ve done a lot more of it. Too fun!

  1349. Several deals, like the $131 JFK-MXP and Wideroe fares have surfaced and even survived for a while amidst the frenzy. These sorts of cheap surprises continue!

  1350. Thank you for introducing me to points and miles. As I am relatively new, it all seems good since I wasn’t here in the good old days.

  1351. On Saturday, my brother-in-law said to me, “Hey, would your daughter like to go to Israel with us on the two week trip we have planned in August?”

    There’s no way we could have afforded the $1500 ticket, especially as the flights are set and the rest of the tickets already purchased. But with our stash of US Airways miles, we were able to get her a ticket on the same flights. Yes, it wasn’t a great redemption in terms of price/mile, but it gave us the last minute flexibility to make the trip happen, when otherwise my daughter would have missed out on a wonderful opportunity.

  1352. We’re able to find ways to maximize our miles with minimal effort thanks to bloggers like you!

  1353. It’s really fun getting rewards (points and miles) for things I already do. Thanks for sharing all of your helpful insight!

  1354. I have been able to develop a friendship with a great community and teach other some basic travel hacking tips

  1355. I love Mike’s and points because I get to take my 5 yr old all over the world

  1356. Points and miles have been tremendously useful in begin able to stay in touch with friends and family across the U.S. and the world. These kinds of forums are priceless.

  1357. I’m sitting here at my home in LA although to AA I am on a (two month) legal stopover FLL-BER, which because it was started in early May only cost me 20,000 miles one way. AA told me that if it priced that low online then I was welcome to book it even with the backtrack. Little did I know they were about to pull the rug out. No changes now!

  1359. I like the crossover rewards partnerships between Delta Airlines & Starwood Hotels and United Airlines & Marriott Hotels where elite status is granted reciprocally between hotel and airline. This translates to both room upgrades at the hotels and cabin class upgrades on flights which is great because you only have to be an elite in one program to reap the rewards of both.

  1360. My mother taught me to save the pennies so I have the dollars to spend. Blogs like this and fellow traveler comments have helped me maximize both sides of that equation for some great adventures. Looking forward to more over the years. As things tighten down there’s still bene’s to take advantage of to help make life that much sweeter – once you know the way. Thanks for the route map!

  1362. Flyertalk and Boarding Area made me realize that I’m not the only one dedicating so much time to points!

  1363. This is the only way that I have been able to afford some trips to exotic locations

  1365. There are still many new cards with awesome bonuses out there and MS is still possible! Keep up the good work!

  1366. Despite the changes, it is still possible to see the world for relatively little if you take the time to look for the best deals. The travel community is a huge help.

  1368. Airline points make for an excellent hobby with the added benefit of ultimately going on vacation!

  1369. Even with all the devaluations of the past year, the hobby still makes it possible to travel to places that would otherwise be prohibitively expensive — it just takes a little while longer to earn the points/miles to do so.

  1370. These communities help me (and my wife) recognize that I’m not crazy for researching the best mileage opportunities.

  1371. I’m using a great deal with BA Avios to get my infant son on his first plane ride in July to visit his grandparents in Maine. Much better than an 11 hour drive!

  1372. Finding a discounted fare from the East Coast of the States to Australia for ($750 RT) which gave me elite status for the coming year so I could be upgraded to first class on weekend trips to see my family!!

  1375. If you plan in advance, I like that I am still able to take the whole family to a great place (e.g. Caribbean) for free. Not difficult to find award tkts for 30-35k on major carriers and hotel rooms for average 25k/night at luxury properties. Still love miles!

  1377. You know,even with all the problems, we are still getting a great “freebie” with miles and points. I’m old enough to remember that when you paid for a hotel room, the only free thing you got was a bar of soap. And, when you bought an airplane flight, unless you were rich (which I wasn’t), you flew in coach with no chance for first class. And, the idea of the airline giving you a free ticket??? Ha!!

  1379. I just used miles and points to book a vacation for my wife and me to Europe — something I’ve been promising for two years but was unable to do until I discovered the possibilities of miles and points earlier this year.

  1383. Not only have I been able to save money on last minute trips but through the travel communities, I have had received great ideas on where to visit, stay, and eat.

  1384. I love that I can use miles/points to take my family on a trip that we otherwise couldn’t afford!

  1385. I like that when one mole gets whacked another one always seems to pop up. Just have to stay patient sometimes to play the game.

  1386. My wife is a newcomer to this collecting miles and points strategy, but she has learned an awful lot from your blog. Thank you!

  1387. Miles are taking my whole family of 4 to Bali this summer so that is definitely a positive!

  1388. As far as I can tell, no negative news has come out regarding Southwest eventually adding service to Hawaii. When that happens, I’ll be putting the companion pass to good use!

  1389. There are some nice opportunities right now for cash back deals with manufactured spend. It is all quite easy, for now at least, to earn a lot of points even without credit card sign ups.

  1390. I’ve been able to take my kids all over the world and see family more often through miles & points. What a blessing!

  1391. Points gave me the opportunity to bring my parents, sister, brother-in-law and my three nephews to Colorado via Amtrak. This would’ve been impossible as it would’ve cost me over $2500, and it is the boy’s first train ride!

  1392. Miles and points allow me to see my family on the other side of the US without worrying about cost.

  1394. I love that I am able to travel more and fly in the front of the plane. Another plus is we are able to stay in some pretty great hotels.

  1395. Miles and points let me visit SE Asia without having to spend 24 hours in coach. Which makes life so much easier.

  1396. Miles got me around the world with stops on six continents a couple of years ago in first and business class!

  1397. Points are a great method to get inexpensive travel for your everyday spending patterns.

  1398. From the early days of mileage travel, the hits just keep on coming! keep it up Gary

  1403. A credit card offering 100k miles and I’m allowed to have more than one. I just booked 4 rt tickets lax-lhr in October and still have miles left. Amazing!

  1408. Still lots of good opportunities out there, particularly if you know where to look.

  1410. Thanks to points and miles I’ve exclusively flown business or first internationally for the past ten years.

  1411. Miles and points allow me and my loved ones to travel together to places where we couldn’t imagine before. And reading the blogs becomes a hobby and part of my daily routine already. Feeling good that it’s part of my life now.

  1413. Points have allowed me to visit my family in germany for the past 3 years / once each year. and an extra trip to Spain.

  1414. Adding a little extra to my European vacation with a free flight to Helsinki on what may be one of the last times with an international stopover advantage. Glad I read about it before booking my ticket and before it went away. Thanks!

  1416. I’ve never flown international business, only Y, but this year I’m on track to do so because of miles! Yay!

  1418. I wouldn’t have been able to travel to many of the places I’ve been to in the past year if not for miles and points!

  1421. Points and miles have opened the world to my family of 4. Europe, Jamaica, and this summer S America with plans for Africa next summer. And my kids are still in elementary school!

  1424. Gary: Thank you for sharing both your knowledge and experience. Looks like the credit card sign in bonuses and points offer a much better value than the regular frequent flyer programs after their devaluation.

  1427. Thankful that I can earn miles to provide free flights and nights for myself and my family.

  1428. The points/miles game helped me travel for free with my family and lead me to start my own blog this year. Thanks for the giveaway.

  1430. I have learned so much from VFTW! Has made the world of points much more straightforward and easy to navigate!

  1434. Love love to be positive about the VIEW! The best resource for people who love to travel and get to know the rest of the world! Thanks for making it a little bit more affordable for us!

  1435. Not just miles and points, but all kinds of discounts (like cash and points) have let us experience all kinds of fun travel!

  1436. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. We can work around ‘limitations’ until the volatile cycle of the airline industry reverses. The incentives will come back.

  1438. This community has helped my girlfriend and I travel throughout the country and Europe for pennies on the dollar.

  1439. It’s great that Singapore Air is now a transfer partner with Chase Ultimate Rewards!

  1441. No matter the devaluation, using free points gets you a better deal for your money over paying cash…(well most of the time)!

  1442. Even with all the devaluations, I still get to travel with my wife.

    She’d totally pick this one as the winner. Ain’t too proud…

  1446. Change = new opportunity. It means new ways to earn miles and new topics for bloggers to write about. 🙂

  1448. Status is still reachable and aspirational travel can be attained with sufficient planing and flexibility.

  1449. I’ve gotten some great premium-cabin flights via miles that I would never have been able to have otherwise.

  1451. Buy gift cards at 5x points and liquidate from the comfort of my home. Priceless!

  1454. I have benefited a lot from blogs – just went business class to Italy using Avianca miles and I never would have known about that possibility but for blogs and miles!

  1457. Despite the recent devaluations, I’m still able to take 1-2 international trips per year in business or first thanks to miles, which would otherwise be impossible.

  1458. Bloggers are a great resource for all kinds of travel information. Also, there are very helpful members of FlyerTalk.

  1459. Being able to stay at great hotels for very little cost is pretty fantastic.

  1460. I like getting status, as a frequent traveller, it makes all the difference.

  1461. I used miles to fly to my college roommate’s wedding last month! Thanks Gary

  1462. I like that I have a mental game to play when purchasing something: which CC has the best points/miles/bonuses.

  1464. Thanks for the great tips over the years that have helped me and my family use our miles for amazing trips to Europe and Africa. And more to come!

  1465. I have had the opportunity to send our family to many exotic places using my and my wife’s miles. That is an awesome thing.

  1468. I think it’s fun to play the points “game” and figuring out how to earn points in new ways.

  1470. Reading travel blogs has introduced me to other mileage programs that have saved me time/money, such as using BA Avios for short distance trips.

  1471. And for entry number 3, I really love that I’m staying at Park Hyatts for a big chunk of my trip. Thanks Chase!

  1472. Finally, I really appreciate that the banks keep approving me for more credit cards.

  1473. I love the challenge of using points and miles to the best use when they make these devaluations.

  1474. I used SPG points this year on my honeymoon and was upgraded to a Suite, which is bigger than my apartment!

  1477. Points let me go to Berlin for free on Air Berlin! It’s not all doom and gloom 🙂

  1478. With the increase in the prepaid card market, the options for MS are growing daily!

  1481. Being very new to all this I’ve found that 99% of the bloggers and readers have been very helpful with my edcuation. I’m looking forward to my 1st awards trip and many more thanks to all the great teachers!

  1482. I like having 50,000 miles in reserve for emergency situations when I need to be somewhere ASAP

  1483. Miles and points have enabled me to see more of the world than I ever thought possible!

  1485. Its fun to play the points “game” and figure out how to maximize my points earnings.

  1486. Blogs allowed me to spend 7 nights in Rome with my gf for a total of $400. Thanks!

  1487. Simple: When folks help other folks – easy as helping with a heavy bag in the overhead bin, to letting soldiers take a 1st class upgrade…it reminds me that the people flying on these airlines are still good at heart!

  1488. I really like the guides you publish, I plan on using your plan to get to the Maldives!

  1489. Avios have saved my relationship. As one half of a long distance relationship, Avios allow me and or my partner,to see each other at the bargain rate of 9K per trip. This short flight somethings cost as much as $800 if we were to pruchse the tickets outright.

  1490. 1 other positive- can’t speak for other airlines, but UA still seems to be taking pretty decent care of its top-tier elites, all things considered.

  1491. Hmm. let’s see. Grateful for the 17 day trip to Italy and Paris on points last month. Gritti Palace, Westin Excelsior, Park Hyatt Vendome.

  1493. This blog is my travel savior. I’m way too busy at work to spend as much time researching credit card options, travel values, etc. I’ve found your advice consistently helpful over the years. Thank you Gary!

  1497. For the past 6 years, I’ve managed to travel the world thanks to the tips in this blog. Thank you for all your help!

  1498. I love that I can use miles to fly business class on overnight flights. What a quality of life improvement!

  1499. Love meeting great people who enjoy traveling and cultural exchange as much as I do.

  1501. The big banks are still competing for customers, so I expect good developments on the credit card bonus front as well as improvements to proprietary points programs (e.g. Barclay’s improvements to the Arrival card and Chase adding Singapore to Ultimate Rewards).

  1503. It was fun having the option to choose whether to redeem a free night stay either at a Westin, Intercontinental or LaQuinta after seeing a Paul McCartney concert in Tampa.

  1505. Miles show me places that I would never in a million years see without this wonderful hobby

  1506. I was able to book a RT ticket from US-Lon with American Miles and it didn’t cost $2500!

  1507. Being able to fly a family of 5 from SAN to Maui on Alaska just for signing up for the British Airways Visa card was amazing. Thanks to View from the Wing!

  1511. There are still plenty of positives left. We’re seeing bigger signup offers than we’ve ever seen before. And more people are getting access to travel and see the world without it costing as much

  1512. The challenge to get award seats may be greater, but some of the Business and First experiences seem to have gotten better.

  1514. My wife and I have redeemed over $100,000 worth of travel for free over the past few years thanks to awards!

  1515. While award prices have gone up for some awards, there have been some very generous bonuses over the past few months which make it easier to keep up.

  1516. Miles allow us to go many different places to give us the break we need at a great price.

  1518. All said and done – in most cases when I travel, relative to the out-of-pocket associated with paying for premium cabin fares, I have always found using miles – especially through American to be exceptionally favorable.

    Understanding that the business is competitive and airlines need to constantly balance loyalty with P&L/Investor Confidence, I think devaluations is something to be expected. Still – using what I spend everyday – towards travel remains the best value as far as I am concerned.

  1521. Been able to stay at a hotel I would never pay for out of pocket. Grand hyatt Kauai for eight nights.

  1522. Six months ago, I did a RTW first class extravaganza on BA, SQ Suites and CX – all on miles – all from knowledge learned from you and Lucky. Already planning another one. Thank you both

  1523. We can still fly for free! I’ve been able to see India, South America, Southeast Asia and this summer, Europe, all for taxes only. I never would be able to travel like this without the miles game.

  1524. Despite the devaluations, the classic strategies still work, you just have to be more careful about which cards/airlines/hotels you pick! I’m a newbie going on my first miles trip to Europe this summer. 🙂

  1525. I’m so happy I’ve found the Boarding Area blogs…
    learned a ton and have taken wonderful trips on the
    cheap.

  1526. I believe that this miles & points game is a hobby, something that we should considered to be a blessing in today’s world. All we have to do is try to be ahead of the game, and I believe we still are.

  1528. Miles allows me to bring my family on business trips that I may not of without them.

  1530. I learn a lot from the Flyertalk forums just by reading comments. Many members are friendly and offer great advice. Thanks.

  1531. How’s this for positive? I am writing this comment from Paris… and I’m here staying with my girlfriend in hotels that I paid for with points after flying business class International for the first time on miles. All after a year or so of being in this hobby I enjoy!

  1532. This blog (and others like it) allow my wife and me to visit family more in Asia.

  1534. I don’t know what I’d do without my daily blog check. Very grateful you and other sites are around!

  1535. Let me book last minute travel to attend a funeral without breaking the bank

  1536. Since I have to travel so much for work, one of the biggest perks is earning all those hotel points I use for personal travel!

  1537. Book flights for my parents using points that would’ve cost an arm and a leg If i used cash

  1538. Lastly, by reading all the blogs I become a smarter traveler for when things go wrong.

  1539. Several airlines serve Dom Perignon in business and/or first class. What’s not to like about that?

  1542. I love that my points can help ALL my family from all over the US to take an annual family vacation to the US Virgin Isles each year! 🙂

  1543. I’m new to this hobby and I JUST booked my first trip using points! My husband and I will use our free Hyatt nights and Southwest points to go to Montego Bay and stay in Hyatt’s new all-inclusive resort.

  1544. your blog has let me travel in business class for vacation, which is amazing. thank you!

  1545. Miles and points allow me to enhance my vacations so that I’m allowed to travel in comfort and a tad bit of luxury.

  1546. Thanks for the site. Used it to build miles to get to Mauritius and back. Keep up the awesome work.

  1549. Gary, Positively have leaned a lot from your comments and email conversations. Enjoyed Singapore suites in Feb. Sin-Fra-JFK. Fantastic

  1550. I entered the game late but I have my first major trip for two to Europe AND Asia all in business and first in the coming weeks! For that I am grateful

  1553. Positive – although there have been devaluations, I am still able to book the family trips that we need and want.

  1554. Devaluations just offer us the opportunity to learn EVEN MORE about earning, collecting and using miles and points.

  1555. Positive is what positive does. I do not imagine you get tax deduction for your donation to people and I know your followers are not the hungry kids of the third world who could eat for a month with a hundred bukcs.

    Yet, your act of kindness will make someone happy and that is positive.

    I have witnessed great acts of self sacrifice and willignness to help (though only online) in the last 10 days, during the worst ever floods in te Balkans ever since the meteorological data is recorded (1868 or so).

    So all that is positive, I’d say: the fact that many people give away something, be it money, aid, their time, advice… whatever.

    Of course, there are always quite a few of those who freeload and jump on bandwagons too. And the fact that the universe lets us roll and carry on, such as we are: with more of those who need and those who do not want to give than those who do, is kinda positive, ain’t it?

  1556. The positive is that I am still able to travel for less and experience new things using miles. Now if all programs became revenue based…that would change. It’s also great to meet and talk with fellow points hounds – real camaraderie.

  1557. Was able to book my preferred flight for the 4th of July and earn miles using Flexperks points!

  1560. Miles & Points create unforgettable events like my recent LH F to FRA for the new Porsche 911 test drive (wow – what a rocket and the sound) and back home in F again. From now on always 5 hour layover in FRA for that :))))

  1562. I travel the world in a manner that would be impossible if not for miles and points – written from France – flew free biz class – received $1000 off my new Mercedes (from my MB AMEX Platinum card) I picked up in Germany.

  1564. I love reading travel blogs that post trip reports and focus on the food whether during the flight or on the ground.

  1566. I’m going to Japan with my good friend this summer thanks to this wonderful travel community!

  1567. I’m grateful for the fact that I get to choose whether to drink Dom Perignon or Krug when redeeming my miles for Singapore First.

  1569. even if it costs more miles, I can still see parts of the world I would never otherwise see for free!

  1570. Several airlines serve Dom Perignon in business and/or first class. What’s not to like about that?

  1571. Blogs like yours have saved me lots of money while traveling in the past year! 🙂

  1572. The points I earn thanks to this blog help me to save money and have great vacations!

  1573. Earning miles and points has allowed me to visit places I’ve always dreamed about!

  1574. I’ve almost saved up enough miles to fly the family to South Africa in business 🙂

  1575. I love reading travel blogs that post trip reports and focus on the food whether during the flight or on the ground too.

  1577. Earning miles & points = being able to eat caviar on a plane. It’s a completely indulgent activity … and I loved every minute of it.

  1578. I was traveling to an East Coast summer destination for my son’s wedding, and stopped to get gas. At that station I discovered
    a supply of Vanilla Reloads that could be bought with credit cards!!!

  1580. Appreciate that you keep us up to date with program changes, good or bad, as well as promotions and opportunities to leverage the points / miles already accumulated.

  1584. Traveling keeps me positive no matter what may be happening around me. I love it because it’s an opportunity to travel the world, fall in love with different cultures, and experience new adventures. I get inspired when reading story’s and updates from fellow frequent flyers.

  1586. Able to use points earned for emergency without having to pay through the nose.

  1587. Still a lot of great opps out there to allow us to travel in style. And there will be new products we haven’t seen yet add to the opps.

  1589. One thing the last few rounds of devaluations has taught me is how ingenious and resilient the FF community can be. I’ve seen many people share tips and experiences, offer advice, and guide people to be able to experiences vacations that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. I love travel, seeing the world, and seeing people help others experience the wonderful places this world has to offer.

  1590. I love to travel, love to save money, and love to earn points and miles. Thanks for helping with all three!

  1592. Spend bonuses make my day, especially when they’re for credit cards that I had long stashed away in my drawer.

  1595. As I get more into the hobby, it’s so fun to teach others as well. I love promoting travel.

  1597. I have accumulated a lot of miles and points, thanks to the hard work of the bloggers being . Looking forward to my next trips this year to see more of the world for free…

  1598. What I like about frequent flyer miles is the fact that it gives us a sense of belonging where we are able to be rewarded for our loyalty(although that might be overrated) for an airline(s)

  1599. I love that the airlines, hotel chains and car rental agencies want to give me miles!

  1601. Getting to fly from Tokyo to New York, and then to San Francisco three months later on the same ticket.

  1602. My wife and I have redeemed over $100k worth of free travel in the past few years thanks to award programs!

  1603. I love learning from the mistakes of my fellow bloggers who aren’t leery of posting their experiences to help me have a better experience than they have had.

  1604. I’m trying hard to earn miles but my income isn’t high enough to get the good credit card deals I’m at a loss, but reading here give me hope.

  1606. Even though things have gotten harder, when one can get an award ticket in business or first, it is way more comfortable and worth it.

  1608. Sitting in cabo at the westin staring out at the beautiful water on a tuesday afternoon….paid for in points! Pretty positive to me!

  1610. Redeeming miles for flights and points for hotel rooms means more $$$ left for food & activities, often paid with cc’s that were used to earn the miles and points in the first place (and also to earn more miles and points, of course). Love how it all comes full circle!

  1612. As a non-American living in America, when I travel and meet Americans, I find that they are some of the most friendly people in the world.

  1613. My wife and I only dreamed of traveling in business class before discovering this hobby. Now our dreams are reality!

  1614. The main thing that I like about frequent flyer miles is that they offer the opportunity to fly first class without buying prohibitively expensive tickets for cash.

  1615. When I really think about it, I am thankful for having all these miles and points bloggers to share with me all their knowledge – they could have kept all the ‘secrets’ to themselves and enjoy all the award flights. But they teach you things and tricks that they know for free so you can enjoy (almost) free flights and hotel stays! (Yes I do know they get commission here and there by you sign up with the links they provided, but that’s up to you to decide to use their links or not) Kudos to you guys!

  1616. The feeling boarding your plane after a successful mileage plan comes to fruition.

  1618. Twice this year I had cushion in my schedule, and volunteered my seat for two free flights. How did I get the original flights? POINTS of course!

  1619. We made it to Seoul to visit my daughter and son’s new home. Stopped and stayed in HI for a few days. All from credit card signups and creative ways to use those cards. I can’t believe anyone is whining about the good old days.

  1620. I like that I got to fly first class on my honeymoon thanks to miles! Made our trip very special.

  1621. Helped some friends who never thought they’d ever sit at the front of the plane get to and stay at Oktoberfest last year in style, all using miles and points!

  1623. When we’re traveling by car, sometimes I am able to tell my wife, “this hotel stay will be free,” because I have enough points. She is always pleased to hear this.

  1626. What I like best about the forums/blogs and this site is all the free Hilton Breakfasts and internet I’ve had along the way thanks to them.

  1627. Points helped me enjoy a recent trip to Paris for an excellent vacation with my wonderful wife

  1629. (Entry 2):…& unexpected goodies, such as the Gold Marriott status that I received last year for being Star Alliance Gold on United…

  1630. My wife and I were able to go with my daughter’s family to Disneyworld this month, and the flights were “free” with my Southwest Air points.

  1631. UA miles are still the most valuable ones out there and I still love the award availability of *G in Europe.

  1633. With points, I can fly to destinations that I never would have flown to 🙂

  1636. I use points for my honeymoon! First class + PH Maldives + Bangkok + Japan. All points redeemed!

    1

  1637. Taking the whole famille to Shanghai , Beijing and Hong Kong in July! All air and hotels throughout points”

  1638. Points and miles allow my children to visit their grandma more than they would otherwise.

  1639. I love the willingness of my fellow travelers in sharing advice, insight and knowledge.

    Thanks everyone!

  1642. Status matching for my spouse at a million miles – and then him getting upgraded on his own (as opposed to as a companion).

  1643. There’s an old saying: “You will not be remembered for what you said. You will not be remembered for what you did. You will be remembered for how you made other people feel.”

    I think your blog makes other people feel good about traveling, friends, family and most of all, themselves.

  1645. I’ve been collecting and spending frequent flyer miles for 23 years and still going strong. I hope to keep enjoying them for many years to come!

  1646. Thanks to the advice of bloggers like you, I can treat my husband, who does not have the “travel gene”, to some business class flights and nicer hotels, which makes us both happy!

  1648. I love the feeling of riding up the front of the plane that I could never have afforded without discovering USDM’s amazing program…

  1649. My fellow travelers and the bloggers have given me so much info about how to collect miles/points and destination details in the form of TR’s to enable me to have nearly free vacations. Thank you all.

  1651. Knowing the TSA officers my home airport by name. Learning the names of the people in my travel universe makes the process go smoother and friendlier.

  1652. As Mark Twain said, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.”

  1653. There are still a lot of opportunities for newbies to get a lot of points quickly and get a few coach tickets to a far off land. Thank you!

  1654. I love that we have so much greater access to distant locations that we ever had before. Accessibility has improved both financially and technologically.

  1655. Opportunities for points earning have been more than ever, so an increase in award cost is more or less bringing us to the same ground as a couple years ago! We are not behind!

  1656. Points/Miles devalue. Cars and houses (typically) increase in price..and devalue. That’s life for most of us. Good or bad. I’d speculate most of the readers and players in this game are still very fortunate to be playing and traveling for mostly free. I’ll take it!

  1657. Because loyalty still has its perks, I can look past devaluations. Sticking with a brand means something to the customer service teams and as long as you keep an open mind, there are many good things points and miles can bring to the table.

  1658. Travelling is one of the best educations one can have. Education might cost, but knowledge is free.

  1660. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed meeting the travel bloggers, Rene of delta points, being the first, I’ve “met” via their blogs. Rene, and others, provide valuable information and have helped me earn more of the devalued delta miles. Keep up the good work!

  1661. I love the opportunities! Without miles I would never be able to afford many trips that now I can just book. Miles are awesome though not always easy to use…

  1662. At one time, I only focused on airline flights and how to get my 6’5″ self into flights all over the world. After blogs, I’ve learned I can stay in much nicer hotels, too, without too much expenditure.

  1664. No matter what happens, I’ve been able (and will continue to be able, if not quite as often) to go places for free! You can’t beat that with a stick.

  1665. Thank you to this community on a whole. To every helpful person on every blog and site. This would not be possible without you.

  1667. When the Economy turns down, airlines and hotels will REVALUE to attract customers!

  1669. It has opened up a whole new world of travel opportunities that I had no idea of before.

  1670. There are a lot of travel blogs, View from the Wing is the most comprehensive. If I had to only read one, this would be the one!

  1671. Thanks to new techniques, I can pay bills that previously couldn’t be paid by credit card and then earn points or cash back!

  1672. The best uses of “skypesos” article writen what seems like forever ago is still one of my all time favorites. Now if only those skypesos were easier to use…. [sigh]

  1673. This blog is helping me figure out the best ways to afford to fly across the country and internationally to friends’ and family members’ weddings and special events several times each year.

  1674. Gary goes above and beyond what other travel blogs provide. Most other blogs re-post information from flyertalk. Gary actually adds to the travel space by articulatinghis personal opinions and projections instead of just regurgitating someone else’s’ posts. Yippie!

  1676. Thanks to points and miles, and even Skypesos at times, I’ve been able to see a lot of the world in great style.

  1677. I ignore all the devaluations and I am very thankful for learning how to travel for almost free.

  1678. Despite the devaluations, I think airline miles are still more valuable than 1 cent per point. That’s something to be thankful for!

  1679. Points=travel! and for those people too busy for points, there is always the 2% cash back Fidelity Amex card. win-win

  1680. I love that I can get any portion of travel for free! Whatever they’re willing to give me, I’ll take!

  1683. It might take more points or miles, but as prices have climbed too, it’s sometimes not as bad as it looks!

  1684. Traveling by itself is expensive. But when miles and deals are put in place, traveling becomes a reality and something each one of us can fulfill.

  1685. Devaluations provide the opportunity for us to learn even more about how to earn, collect and use miles and points.

  1686. The increasing availability of information on the web (such as this blog) has made it much easier to keep up with important changes.

  1687. I love the information on this blog and other sites. Has really shown me best ways to earn and burn for some great travel.

  1691. Sometimes it’s not about the actual dollar value we get in return from using our miles. For example, I’m more than happy to use my miles to fly girlfriend across the country to see me. It may not be the best redemption in terms of dollar amount, but it’s quite possibly just the best redemption period.

  1692. With so much help (thank you bloggers)anyone with a good credit report can get anywhere they’ve dreamed of with little or no cost for the transportation.

  1693. For me, miles and points are a game with a real-life reward. I genuinely enjoy “min-maxing” my spend (through portals, with bonuses, etc) to try to get the best value and maximum amount of points. It’s a hobby I put a lot of time into – and one that has actual rewards for my family and friends! Therefore I get double satisfaction from my points and miles: once when I earn them, and again when I spend them!

  1694. I’ve enjoyed reading your posts, Gary, about the far flung places I will probably never get to visit. Nothing like living vicariously through someone other than your children!

  1695. Post #2: I enjoy reading your blog for the mileage tips, your travel reviews and the informed comments. It’s not often that a blog can have a comment thread that doesn’t spin out of control when the troll take over…well done.

  1697. Hmm. let’s see. Grateful for the 10 day trip to Moorea. First class flights and an overwater bungalow.

  1698. As disappointing as devaluations are, thanks to sign up bonuses and points from continued spending my family has been able to travel the world for nearly free.

  1699. This is one of the few hobbies that actually pays/rewards you for pursuing it, rather than just costing you money!

  1700. Points are helping get my grand baby here to Richmond in 2 weeks. Yay for sign up bonuses.

  1701. And I am most grateful for tips from fellow travelers, and from insight gleaned from reading A View from The Wing. Thanks!

  1702. Priority Club still puts out PointsBreaks, sometimes at hotels that truly do save me some points!

  1703. This hobby keeps me going and dream big everyday. And it does makes those dreams come true 🙂

  1707. I appreciate the bloggers for giving me knowledge and ideas for trips I would otherwise not think of.

  1710. I enjoy the sense of community that comes from sharing miles and points information.

  1712. I have taken so many trips around the US to visiy family and friends which would other wise be few without miles and points

  1714. Miles have allowed me to travel with my family and do things I probably would have not been able to do.

  1715. Ive learned a lot from blogs and people willing to share deals or tricks. Its definitely a fun hobby and turning into a way of thinking

  1716. The destination is always worth the effort put into the miles and points to get there!

  1717. I spent free nights at the Park Hyatt thanks to miles and points. It was amazing.

  1721. This is a great hobby! I get to hunt ( points/mile) without killing anything. After successfully hunting I have the pleasure of experiencing travel that I never dreamed Of by spending my points! It’s a great hobby & it’s legal!

  1725. What I like most about all of the following (miles and points, blogs, forums, AND my fellow travelers) is just how EXCITED everyone gets to share a great deal – be it an amazingly low fare or a great opportunity to collect points. We’re all in this together! 🙂

  1727. We have been stocking up on United miles for the past few years, even though United is not the best airline we are still excited that we get to use (hopefully) our miles to fly business class for the first time to go back and see my family in HK next year!

  1731. Passengers are so nice during boarding, the flight and deboarding. They are friendly, makes you feel good!

  1732. I never thought flying first class would be a possibility but information from your blog has helped make that happen!

  1733. The excitement of approaching the hotel check in with the hopes of an upgrade !!

  1734. I love flying BA, and have been housing a nice fortune of Avios, as I can book US domestic flights cheap and easy!

  1736. Enjoy the benefits of flying and seeing the world. How many folks in this world never see anything more than their own backyard!! We’re very lucky!

  1737. I love being able to use my points to book tickets I wouldn’t have been able to afford with cash. This has come in handy for happy occasion–like surprising my fiance with a visit from his best friend from college–and sad occasions–like getting my Mom back to Korea to see my grandpa before he died.

  1738. I like getting rewards for things I’d be buying anyway. It’s like getting a discount every time I buy something.

  1740. I love using Avios for short distance flights from NYC. I love using VS FC miles to book DL business class flights to Europe for less miles than DL charges.

  1742. I love intermingling with different cultures and meeting interesting people while traveling.

  1743. I’m happy that I’ve flown a great deal in my life, thanks in part to the miles I’ve collected.

  1745. Not many things in this world are ‘free’. But, you can get close when you arm yourself with knowledge. And knowledge is power. And power gets you sugar. And sugar can get you women. Women get you in trouble. Ergo, stop at sugar.

  1746. I thoroughly enjoy Points & Pixie Dust and would not have been introduced to her blog without reading other blogs.

  1748. With interest rates on credit cards sky high, points and miles are one of the few places where you can get something for your bucks.

  1749. Getting to use Avios for short-haul US flights out of the DC area is an awesome new tool!

  1752. Your work on this site is commendable. Our world would be a better place if more people took the time to help others. I enjoy reading about “special” deals.

  1753. Thanks to you and other travel bloggers, my 2 most recent European trips have been enjoyed with free flights and hotels!

  1755. It’s still amazing to fall asleep on a plane leaving NYC and wake up in Frankfurt!

  1757. Despite the devaluations, without miles and points I wouldn’t be flying business class ever. I finally got to fly C to Asia last month, and enjoy it on EVA, ANA, and SQ, something that would otherwise be out of reach!

  1759. Points and miles equals change and adapt–there are always good deals out there.

  1760. I’m a retired teacher. Never imagined that this points and miles hobby would allow me to travel to exotic places and often in great style. I’m in my room now at the Hyatt Regency in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Using Gold Passport points and cash was a great deal since this 5* hotel is only a category one. Got here on US Airways DMiles, only 60,000 miles. Love the blog for all the great ideas you have given! Thanks!!

  1761. Taking a trip to Virginia wine country with my wife next week entirely on points/miles thanks to travel blogs!

  1762. I’m still able to book a first class to exotic destinations for less than what most people spend on a trip to Florida.

  1763. One of the best use of airline miles is to book hotels. You can often save more money than booking airline tickets.

  1764. The recent US Airways / AA merger isn’t a bad thing, at least in the sense that I’m getting to combine my two separate pools of miles!

  1765. Still very amazing to fly first or business with less cash than buying a coach ticket to Australia even with miles acquired with out of pocket cash such as US Airways bonus transfer offer.

  1768. As long as the credit card companies continue to lure new card members with large sign-up bonuses, the game will continue

  1769. Helped our friends use their AA miles to fly round trip to Seoul so they could pick up their adopted child. Best use of miles, ever!

  1770. Flying round trip to Puerto Rico with our friends for only the 9/11 taxes and Southwest Points is a great thing!

  1773. I really love miles because they are worth more than pennies and they aren’t taxed!

  1774. I love a good deal. 5 days at the Hilton Old Town Prague Executive Floor for 4 days worth of points was wonderful. We ate and drank ourselves silly.

  1775. I like that on our last flight this past weekend when I was not sitting next to my husband another passenger changed seats so that we could finish our trip sitting together.

  1778. I was able to go to Paris completely on miles earned by CC sign ups 🙂

  1779. There are so many legal schemes to get free or cheap travel. What’s not to love?

  1780. Programs devalue, card companies continually change around the rules…but at the end of the day, we all plan and take trips small and large that impact our lives forever. Thanks for helping us to get there!

  1785. I’m saving my miles for emergencies — in case of a death — as airlines don’t seem to provide “grieving airfare” anymore.

  1786. Probably the only time I’ll ever fly first class – is with points. Very nice way to go!

  1787. I know its less fashionable – but some of the cash back cards help me to afford some of the travel necessities besides transport and room. You can literally;y pay for a whole vacation.

  1789. I get to benefit from my husband’s points hobby by traveling in style (and with status!)

  1790. You can talk about Devaluation all day, but I still LOVE that I can sneak away and see something new and exciting in this world, virtually for free!

  1792. Thanks to you, I’ve managed to travel to new and exotic places using my miles.

  1794. Despite devaluation, free flights are free flights. I love escaping and exploring!

  1798. I use a ventilator and electric wheelchair and I’m thankful that through reading your blog and others I’ve traveled on points & miles to 22 countries last year. I hope to encourage other people with disabilities to do the same. Many thanks

  1799. I love a deal, and collecting points / miles is one of the best deals out there! Thanks!

  1800. Despite the devaluation, we can still fly first class at a reasonable price using miles.

  1801. Saved Alaska Airlines miles for 10 years so we could go to Jordan for our 36 anniversary…on Emirates! Oh the joy!

  1802. The tips I get from View from the Wing are so helpful in planning our travel.

  1803. Thanks to your blog and the award travel community I’ve experienced destinations suited for a king while spending less than a backpacker!

  1806. It is easier than ever to get great info on the best ways to earn and redeem points.

  1811. Three years ago I thought miles were useless. Two years ago, I read about a few ways to use avios for short flights that I was able to use. Last year I found travel blogs like this one and have acquired over a million miles and points in less than a year. I am so grateful for all the work that the Boarding Area bloggers do to help me and others navigate this rich, but complex terrain.

  1812. Points and miles are going to help my family of 4 achieve a reasonable priced trip to Hawaii!

  1813. Thanks to points, I was able to get 2 free flights for my honeymoon as well as 2 nights at the Grand Hyatt in Seattle!

  1815. The destination is always worth the effort put into the miles and points to get there! And my wife is the best companion!

  1817. As a teacher I have a schedule with a good amount of time to travel but not so much discretionary income, and flights are our main travel expense. Points help me travel within my budget!

  1819. All my summer travel is free thanks to southwest points. 9000 points for a roundtrip to home and family is tough beat.

    Thanks for everything you do.

  1824. We are able to take trips that people couldn’t have dreamed of taking a few generations ago. Amazing!

  1825. I love taking amazing luxury trips with miles and points that would otherwise not be affordable.

  1826. Taking my first First Class flight with both of my parents was REALLY fun. We saved up some BA miles, a BOGO and some cash to get all three of us to London and Dublin in style.

  1827. I love being able to take trips and only worry about spending money on food with hotel and travel covered!

  1828. Airline and hotel programs have devalued; however, it is still possible to greatly reduce the overall cost of a trip with miles and points.

  1829. Thanks to your blog, I’ve learned a lot more about miles and points. Read you every day!

  1830. Despite all the changes, travel keeps getting easier and more affordable for the average person.

  1831. We’ve been able to fly to Japan in business or first class every other year for the past ten years. We have a strong connection with the country, as we were both Japanese majors and my sister lived and worked there for several years. Last year, we were able to go twice, and both times we flew for the cost of our miles and stayed for the cost of our hotel points. We never could have had such wonderful trips without miles and points.

  1832. I love using Avios from BA signup bonuses for almost free short distance flights! Woo hoo!

  1833. Miles give the opportunity for me to treat my family members to making some beautiful memories. What more could be better!

  1835. Miles and points will still get me a pretty cheap trip to Europe next year (Dublin and Sarajevo to visit friends) though only one part of the trip may be in business Aer Lingus BOS to DUB one way (a splurge on my part)

  1836. I look at your page every day and feel like you work very hard to give me the best.

  1837. Airlines and hotels can devalue all their miles and points, but they will never devalue the community!!! <3

  1838. I have learned so much from reading various blogs. Who knew I didn’t have to spend $10K on a European vacation for my family?

  1839. For the first time, am using Avios earned from my BA card for an AA non-stop this weekend. Booked last minute for 7,500 points and $2.50. And no last-minute charge and redepositing will only cost me the $2.50. Awesome information from the blogosphere.

  1840. I’ve earned more miles and points this year than ever, simply by “diversifying my portfolio.” All my Eggs in many baskets!!!!

  1841. Though once thought of as severely devalued, avios have only increased in value in the last two years and the 100K signup was a grandslam!

  1842. The miles and points world is like a club. So even if all else fails we still have each other! 🙂

  1845. Just found award tickets for four people to South America on thanksgiving week this year! Amazing !

  1847. I like the opportunities that miles give me! For instance, I’m going to Barrow on very low miles while a full-fare ticket there would’ve costed me around $2000! Cha-ching!!!

  1854. I never imagined I would be able to travel around the world as often and affordably as I can now with miles

  1855. It may cost more, but I have been able to go on some great family vacations with points and miles. Hawaii last year and St Thomas this year.

  1856. Blogs like yours have let me figure out how to travel and afford it, a life-long dream! I’ve been to about 30 countries in the last year and a half (while a full-time med student) and looking forward to an indefinitely long trip post-graduation. Thanks!

  1857. I love reading the whining of the over-entitled frequent fliers. Reading these blogs prepare me how to behave when I finally get enough miles to fly premium cabin so these snobs will not look down on me.

  1858. No matter how much the devaluations hurt, the points & miles game still allows me to go on more and nicer trips that I would otherwise be able to afford.

    Just went to England for the long holiday weekend with my wife. What “normal” (i.e. not rich) people can do that without it being cost prohibitive?! But for me, flights & hotels were basically free, so it was worth it.

  1861. Because of reading this blog on earning miles, I’m able to go to England for my cousin’s wedding. Thanks!

  1863. Thankful 1/2000 chance of winning this prize is not worse than finding delta saver awards

  1864. Even now I know about miles and points, I still feel that first class award is a dream since it takes so many miles to redeem. But reading your stories let me know that it’s still possible!

  1865. There is always new info on blogs, above all yours, that I would never have discovered on my own.

  1868. You are the first to know about the latest and greatest deals online and your writing is straight up and honest.I always like to read about what you have discovered next…And you know many different ways to earn more points that i would never think of.
    Keep up the good work.

  1869. Getting a “congratulations”message from a credit card application is one of the few genuinely pleasant surprises still available.

  1870. Chase bringing back the 50,000 point Rapid Reward signup bonus makes it easier for me to get the coveted Companion Pass.

  1871. Paying for the ICH ‘Ambassador’ status using IHG Rewards club points, in my opinion, pays off – even for one hotel visit. While staying at the Intercontinental Hong Kong last year, I was upgraded to the most amazing ‘Executive Suite’ for 5 nights (worth much more than the cost of the IHG Rewards Club points I used to buy the Ambassador status). I had a panoramic view of Hong Kong Harbour and was treated like royalty!

  1872. It’s because of blogs like this that have made super-long haul flights something to look forward to!

  1875. Am incredibly excited to have been referred to this site. I’m a frequent flyer rewards newbie and am eager to get the process and game yes game! started

  1876. All the free flights and hotel rooms could not have been possible without the helpful blogs like yours that help us navigate the Miles game.

  1880. Travel bloggers have provided some valuable insight and tips for my new travel hobby.

  1881. Being very new to the miles and points world, I am continually amazed with the people who write blogs and their willingness to give useful information. That information, such as the newest great credit card deal, helps me to be able to afford to go on more family vacations! How great is that?!!

  1883. Blog long and prosper. Gary, your sneaky trick to get the best out of almost 2,000 of us is a great idea. It is so refreshing to read of the good times people have had using your strategies.

    My wife and I will be trekking Patagonia this fall, after a Citibank Aadvantage card promotion pays for our biz class snoozes down and back from DCA! We learned of it here!

  1885. Look on the bright side: the programs still exist and they aren’t so out of reach that the average Joe cannot take advantage of it

  1886. Despite the devaluations, the game is still on and we still get nice trips. Flying the family to Europe in business this summer with less cash out of pocket than a single paid coach ticket.

  1888. Planning is fun but actually getting to travel somewhere is a privilege few have. We should all be grateful. Thanks for the travel tips.

  1889. Most of the time the game of trying to find the best seats for the least miles at the times I want is fun. I enjoy the hunt, and the reward is great.

  1892. I’m going to use miles to visit my fiance in Mongolia during her time in the Peace Corp!

  1894. While the rules may change, finding small victories in deals from a community of dedicated consumers is still a source of joy 🙂

  1897. If it wasn’t for miles & points, I would never have been able to afford the Disney World vacation this fall for my family of 6 + my mother!

  1900. I enjoy how whenever one deal hits an end, another one appears round the corner.

  1901. Ability to travel to anywhere in the last minute with minimal cost, if you can find space that is.

  1902. This hobby has allowed me to travel to a lot of places and meet great people.

  1904. Miles can get you places in a pinch that can save you or spoil you for a last minute trip.

  1906. love being able to book frequent vacations without blinking an eye when friends have to save for months and months. Trying to share what I learn with them on my new blog, gettingmypointshigh.com!

  1907. I thought I was being thrifty by flying to Europe last fall on American with airBerlin, but I was exposed to a whole new world when I found this site and others like it. I now have two grand plans, another trip to Europe using stopovers and open jaws to maximize a united reward, and a business or first class ticket to southeast asia. Only on those trips, I have no intention on paying for things like hotels b/c of all the great deals on co-branded cards!

  1914. I love the community of bloggers and travelers who are so welcoming and love to share their tips and tricks

  1917. Although late to the game, I have learned so much from this hobby community.

  1918. It’s fun to hear about the trips friends and family have taken using some of my miles and points advice … advice which I happily attribute to blogs like this one!

  1919. Thankful that Delta has not increased award booking fees to $ 100 instead of $ 10 (yet).

  1920. points may not be as valuable as they were, but you still get rewarded for doing something you would have done regardless

  1926. The blogs have opened my eyes to the travel world and allowed my wife and myself to travel the world to see what we otherwise could never afford. We are very grateful to bloggers such as yourself!

  1928. Very thankful that I am able to travel the world for free, see places that I never thought was possible for me to visit. This hobby is very rewarding… Long Live Miles and Points!!!

  1932. I was still able to use off season AADVANTAGE MILES TO TAKE MY WIFE TO London and Paris. Amazing trip!

  1933. I am about to leave for a 2.5 week trip to Ireland, on Aer Lingus business class bought with Avios! So looking forward to not being crammed in coach! 😀

  1937. I really appreciate the willingness to share tips that make travel more fun, more affordable and more memorable. That, to borrow from the MC commercial tag line, is priceless. One evolution I would like to see is the development of a means for sharing itineraries (I spend easily 40 hours planning each trip researching restaurants, activities, etc. I’d love to see someone benefit from this effort.)

  1939. Positive that the world of points and miles will continue to let us have great experiences!

  1943. Gary,

    Please post a new link for SPG Business. I want to apply today, but want you to get credit for it!
    You Deserve it!!!

    Donna

  1945. Point are a great added bonus to flying, which is already one of the most enjoyable activities in the world!

  1946. 2 week kid free vacation to Hong Kong and Singapore for just the airfare taxes.. hotels and air paid for with points

  1947. I like how open the FF community is and how friendly everyone is – despite all the devaluations etc, everyone remembers we’re on the same team

  1948. I love seeing others give up their first class seats to military servicepeople as I do

  1950. You are the best. You give information — the most valuable travel commodity.

  1953. Agree with Patrick…always great to see first class seats given to military members.

  1955. Thanks for all the very positive travel tips from thus amazing blog! I’ve got the system down now and can travel and travel!! Merci! Gracias!!

  1956. I love reading the blogs and am so grateful to everyone for their willingness to share information and expertise. I have learned so much and owe a huge debt to ya’ll!

  1957. I like how points and miles make first class international travel attainable – an experience everyone should be able to have as its a feeling like none other!

  1958. While there have been several devaluations this year, I’m glad that domestic tickets at the saver level are still holding steady at 25K or less ;).

  1963. I always remember that I get the miles, points, flights and nights for free and the companies I choose to do business with have no obligation to provide me with these benefits. I appreciate that they do provide the benefits as a means to gain my patronage of their particular airline or hotel chain.

  1964. This one time, at band camp…
    It doesn’t matter. The important thing is I got to band camp for FREE!

  1965. Getting my parents Business class tickets from JFK – SEA and back later this summer for $42/person!

  1966. While the mileage world is indeed hurting, it makes it that much sweeter to still find and execute on the good deals. 🙂

  1968. I’d say the major positive is that despite the devaluations, points earning has been getting much easier. Additionally, some great new cash back cards have helped to ease the pain of devaluations and fuel surcharges.

  1969. Although news in the miles & points world is mostly grim, and getting miles in my part of the world is still hard, but the information I learned is very useful to me. We never stop learning, now do we?

  1972. No matter what we should be fortunate for the memories we have made traveling with miles and points!

  1974. Hmmm… positive you say? I think I can do that… yes I can: this is great!

  1981. Points translating to.business/first equals more sleep on overnight flights.

  1983. I am still positive that by subscribing to viewfromthewing I wont miss out on tips

  1985. My favorite thing is the bloggers that helped me get enough points/miles to go to Hawaii in 9 days for 2 weeks with air and hotel paid totally!

  1986. I love the fact that by taking advantage of the credit card bonuses that Gary recommends, I can earn “free” airline flights and hotel nights by using the cards for everyday spending that I would be doing anyway.

  1990. There are people in the FF community who are super helpful to those of us with less experience.

  1995. We practically had a completely free 12-day trip to Portugal using USAIR points on TAP for our RT plane tix, using Carlson’s 1 award nite with the second night for free (2x = 4 nites)at the Radisson Lisbon, UAL points for 2 hotels we never would have found on our own, IHG points for 3-nites in Porto and a Douro River Cruise and one nite using TravelPony with a hotel stay right on the beach at a Mercure property (balcony and all) for only $89. I love collecting points.

  1996. Club Carlson free night with award booking when using their visa is a great deal. Using it in Berlin in two weeks.

  1998. Since starting to read your blog and a few others, I have traveled more in the past 3 years than I ever thought I would in my entire lifetime! Thank you!

  2001. Miles have helped my 3 kids see their grandparents that live on the other side of the US every summer for the past three years!

  2002. My friend was so jealous about my great trip mostly done on points, that she has now started point collecting and is planning a trip to Costa Rica next year on points.

  2006. I would have never been able to pull off a RTW trip (IAD > LAX > CDG > FCO > BUD > PRG > NRT > HKG > IAD) for $412.37 and 25,000 miles without the advice, hints, and alerts I’ve seen on your blog! Thank you!

  2007. New to miles and points this year and am amazed at the benefits and value. We’ve been traveling in a completely different style for much less and are loving it! Thanks for the great tips!

  2008. I love the way people disseminate information, easy to understand and hard to decode which makes it a fun challenge.

  2009. As a young mileage guy, it has been exhilarating over the past year learning all the tricks, dos and dont’s to earning miles. While I am no expert by any means, I am fortunate enough through this blog as well as several others to slowly begin to educate myself on easy ways to earn miles so that I can one day travel the globe. Thanks again for all that you post!

  2010. Despite recent devaluations, points and miles still offer huge savings on premium travel!

  2013. Its amazing how small the world has become thanks to points and miles – no special thought is given to someone who has visited Europe, Asia, etc anymore. Just think what the same would have been 50 years ago.

  2014. I love that miles and points can take me places I would otherwise not be able to go!

  2015. Points and miles have allowed me to have some wonderful vacations with my family. Fantastic memories and experiences.

  2017. I love learning about all the tips and tricks that my fellow travelers post! Thank you!

  2018. Knowing the tricks to get miles without much flying has gotten me several great overseas trips.

  2026. Even though mileage program has been devalued, I have still gotten a ton out of the knowledge that you and other bloggers give out. I’ve been able to fly to Germany, first class to Bali, and have already booked tickets to Peru.

    Thank you for all the information you provide.

  2028. I’m relatively new to all of this so I still have great sign-up bonuses ahead of me!

  2029. Before the advent of travel-oriented blogs, trip planning frequently involved buying expensive (and outdated) travel books. Now, thanks to Gary and his colleagues, readers get extremely valuable (up-to-date) travel information totally free-of charge.

  2031. I love learning new things from bloggers. The blogs also save me time from having to search for the information through forums.

  2032. The best thing is that we can still complain about all the devaluation, removed categories, and changes. Just think they could just get rid of the programs completely. Every time I walk into a hotel, take a flight, or rent a car and get points, or use points I am extremely happy that they haven’t decided to get rid of the programs completely!

  2033. Travel bloggers always help me know when there are promotions to register for or good deals to keep an eye on. Thanks for your help!

  2035. I love blog and forum giveaways! Inspires me to give out travel perks to my friends.

  2036. I love reading this blog and learning how to earn more points so that I can travel more! Thanks so much!

  2038. I love how we were able to move across the country with UA miles which we redeemed to get a room on an Amtrak train.

  2039. More information sharing than ever before means mistake fares don’t go unnoticed and techniques are refined.

  2040. (Entry 3):…and still receiving the benefits of getting to know all the kindred spirits who pursue miles, points, travel…

  2043. Saving money and doing the things I love which couldn’t be done w/o points.

  2044. Miles and points allowed me to get my dad two RT tickets to his hometown (a 6-hour flight away) for his 70th birthday! And I know I’ll be able to do the same for my mom – even if it takes more points, or more effort on my part.

  2049. One really positive thing about Points and Miles is that, just like other forms of currency, they can usually be converted from one program to another. So if the value of your Airline Miles drop in value, you can hedge against the devaluation by converting them to potentially more lucrative Hotel Points and vice versa.

  2050. Hmm, just tried posting after a few days.. got the “slow down” warning?

  2052. Am positive we willbe able to fly more business class trips and stay in great hotels in the future

  2054. using credit cards to accumulate points permitted me and one son to go to Italy two years ago and myself and another son to go to France this year — two trips for two I would not have been able to afford..

  2055. Sign up bonuses are a positive to me! As long as they’re still offering them, free travel will happen!

  2058. I am positive I will enjoy my trip to Europe this summer: booked round-trip in first class with points – for a family of four!

  2059. Thankful for bloggers who helped us enjoy years of amazing trips BEFORE the devaluation.

  2061. Miles and points are the best way to see the world at a greatly reduced cost. I’ve been able to travel to some pretty incredible places that I would not have been able to see without participating in the “game”.

  2063. One positive is that I am learning more and more about miles and points. I am relatively new to the game, but it already has helped me fly home and bring my Mom with me back all with miles!

  2065. never knew it was possible to fly longhaul in premium class w/o sites like this —

    hell I’m travelling more nowdays & thanks !

    try 2

  2066. Southwest miles allow me to fly home from MDW to CLE to see my family more frequently than having to pay in cash.

  2068. I’m positive I’ll keep at this points collecting hobby despite the devaluations. They’ve happened before and they’ll happen again, but so far I’m still able to extract value, so onwards I go!

  2069. Points and miles still open up the possibility to travel to places I couldn’t have imagined going to before!

  2073. I like points because as a business traveler, even though I know you aren’t supposed to hoard miles due to depreciation, my business travel allows me to bank the miles in the hope of one day taking my fiance on one really awesome honeymoon. 🙂

  2075. Kudos to the forums, bloggers, and all those who share tips to make point collecting such a rewarding hobby!

  2081. I love the tips I get from you and others on Boardingarea. There’s still a lot of good value to be had using miles!

  2084. Southwest Companion Pass has let my wife and I travel a lot more than we would have been able to otherwise.

  2086. With miles and points, sky is the limit. You can fly to HKG for a couple of bucks on business class.

  2088. Let’s remember: a few hours a month can still get you free travel all over the world. Also, jumping on deals is getting easier and easier with social media and excellent blogs.

  2090. Even with the devaluations, points and miles are better than cash back which is probably the next best alternative for credit cards.

  2096. Thank u to all who have talked about Hyatt and the great redemptions…going to the Vendome in July

  2098. I love that despite all the devaluations there are still deals to be had and its still a rewarding hobby.

  2099. At least the fellow point and mile enthusiast haven’t devalued their friendliness

  2101. An awesome, positive travel experience is boarding the plane, heading for the middle seat in the back, when the agent hands you a new First Class boarding pass due to your elite airline membership level. Bottom line, It pays to be loyal, read newsworthy travel blogs and keep traveling for miles. (Just had this upgrade event on my flight fm HNL to SFO!). Aloha. Mahalo.

  2103. With all the cutbacks, maybe FAT america will lose some weight after going hungry on so many flights.

  2104. I just want to call out the flyertalk forums generally for being absurdly positive and helpful.

  2105. How else can I fly Lufthansa first class and use the FC terminal if it’s not for miles?

  2106. I’ve been able to stay at very nice hotel rooms and suites where I wouldn’t have been able to otherwise.

  2108. It always pays to be nice. No matter how bad your day, you’ll feel better and so will the person with whom you are interacting. And once in a while, something really wonderful will happen!

  2109. While airfares are mostly up over the last few years, my home airport of BOS has actually seen average airfares decrease, which is welcome.

  2110. I’m so thankful for all the info I get from travel bloggers! My family and I have been on multiple free trips now we would have never been able to take without all your help!

  2111. A wise man once said: All that is gold does not glitter, but all who travel with points shine like the sun.

  2112. Travel bloggers are generous, helpful people leading us on this great hunt for the great deals! Always willing to share, help me get better at getting miles AND will even reward me sometimes. What’s better than that??

  2113. Sharing the information is definitely very helpful. I appreciate the IHG & Chase posts – very easy to score free travel!

  2114. Blogs provide entertainment made by real people who really travel all over the real world.

  2115. TSA PreCheck is such an amazing gift when you walk up to a mess of a security checkpoint but only have 2 people in front of you in the PreCheck lane

  2116. My greatest joy is to take my son on Business class/First class international trip to see my family using points.

  2117. We used miles to creatively route through Egypt for a quick stop at the pyramids while transiting between Turkey and Jordan!

  2118. I am positive that I will enjoy an upcoming award trip that was booked on AA with off season awards = only 20K miles one way to Europe.

  2119. I have learned so much from everyone and traveled many places for free on points.

  2121. I am so thankful to all of the travel bloggers for sharing their knowledge so I can learn from them!

  2124. first time using awards to book free flight to europe and watching my favourite football team for the first time.

  2127. Excited for my first European flight in business class, all possible bc of points and miles!!

  2128. Being able to travel with my boyfriend to Hong Kong in CX F for free (almost)!

  2129. Our honeymoon was booked totally on points, looking forward to 10 days in Italy in free hotels and flying in business class. Thankful to all the bloggers!!

  2132. I used miles to book at great trip to South Africa later this year, and I am using hotel points for each hotel along the way. It would not be possible without miles and points.

  2134. Blog posts and tips from other frequent travelers allow me to have a better traveling experience!

  2136. Despite all the changes this year, FF programs still provide a way to put intercontinental business and first within reach without breaking the bank.

  2141. Despite all the changes there are good ways to earn miles, such as with credit cards…

  2142. …and I just love finding and learning about new tricks, such as manifactured spending!

  2143. Gary’s advice produced a wonderful gift for me. My sister’s family was in a severe car wreck several years ago. Everyone was Life-Flighted and survived…but her husbanded exceeded $1 million in medical bills so he’s now no longer “insurable”. They are consumed with medical bills and can’t afford to splurge on travel at all. Fast-forward to the end of 2013: Gary posted about a Southwest credit card offering 2+ roundtrips, and his advice on how to cash in the miles before the devaluation. I was able to get the card, meet the minimum spend, and fly my sister and her son cross-country to Disneyworld for his birthday (using the bonus miles). I live nearby, so I had the vacation-of-a-lifetime with my 5-yr nephew & sister… and he loved it, with all the Disney employees wishing him a Happy Birthday all day long. The trip ABSOULTELY WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE without Gary’s brilliant suggestions. I am so appreciative, and I almost hate posting this story here because it will get lost in the thousands of posts. I really want Gary to know what a wonderful gift he gave us with his advice.

  2144. Also, the ability to redeem miles for awards and fly for free is amazing!

  2145. It’s still incredible to be able to redeem miles for travel you otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford!

  2147. We’re going to Disney World with my sister this Fall entirely using miles and points!

  2148. Despite devaluations, miles and points have been very valuable to me and my family, enabling us to travel in comfort (business class) and stay in fabulous hotels (Park Hyatt Milan) that we never would have paid for ordinarily.

  2150. As long as miles help me get to the places I want to go, I’m still a fan.

  2151. I love seeing the world as part of my job and someday my wife and I will use all this great advice to spend the accumulated miles on some great trips (hopefully sooner than later!).

  2152. I am stoked about my US Airways miles being dumped into my American miles eventually. Going to be huge for me as I never fly US anymore!

  2153. Here, here to Lindy’s comments! What a wonderful way to utilize all the helpful information garnered from this blog.

    Cheers!

  2154. I used IHG points from one of their purchasing promos to save hundreds of dollars for my honeymoon to Bora Bora. We are staying at the IC Bora Bora and could not be more excited! This will be my first time benefitting from hotel rewards points.

  2155. The Eiffel Tower at night. Sunset over the Aegean sea seen from Santorini. A Broadway show. A child’s laughter at Disney World. Smile!! Enjoy life!!!

  2156. I have always wondering if I had a chimpanzee, and he was dressed in shorts and shirt, would he be able to ride with me or would I have to get an extra seat for him?

    And, would I be able to get a frequent flier account for him? Some many questions in life, so little answers… but I am serious here.

  2157. Although I’m just a novice at the points game, I enjoy reading about the possibilities and experiences of the veterans I read about on travel blogs.

  2159. With the American Dining Awards option, I have been able to build up my AAdvantage account by paying for large group’s meals and having each person reimburse me for their portion. It is essentially free miles, and I am getting them for what I would be spending money on anyway.

  2160. hope someone comments soon!

    Learned a ton about how airlines work from your blog.

  2162. Points help me have the flexibility to visit family for less money during the times I want to see them most! (Especially during the holidays and tough weekends!)

  2163. Thanks to the forums and bloggers for making point collecting such an interesting and exciting hobby.

  2166. Reading all the blog updates every morning gives me something to look forward to going into work!

  2171. Travel blogs have been huge in keeping me informed and plugged into what is happening on the rewards scene.

  2172. Because miles and point collecting is still better than paying cash for it. 😉

  2173. Domestic tickets are still at 25K after many years as long as you can find availability!

  2175. I cashed in my united miles for 2 round trip business class tickets to Rio de Janeiro! That was the best use of miles! Without them I would have been in coach!

  2178. I booked a trip for my family of four to Hawaii–all on points! We never would have been able to go otherwise. So grateful!!!

  2181. My favorite part is scheming with other points and miles hackers to make plans to see the world! That and my favorite letters “J” and “F”!

  2182. that you can still get awards on American and United, one-way, for 12,500 miles

  2183. last chance to get away, dont forget to punch your ticket, and thanks for the advice.

  2184. what do you like about miles and points, blogs, forums, or your fellow travelers?

    I’m happy I can use miles/points to take my family of 4 to places I never imagined due to cost
    Business class flights, Italy or Asia on mistake fares

  2185. Traveling to new places is still awesome. It’s even more awesome if I can get free flights or free rooms.

  2186. That sufficient remnants of the mileage programs still exist, to warrant the excellent contribution and analysis of the various bloggers

  2187. Able to earn referral miles/credits to help me travel = free lunch is the best 😀

  2188. I love that I can find so much helpful information on this and other travel blogs. Don’t know where I’d be in this game with out all of it!

  2189. Despite devaluations, I have ~90K UR and ~80K of United points thanks to blogs such as yours and even though that won’t get me a first class ticket to Thailand it will still allow me to have a once in a lifetime vacation with my friends and for that I am very happy!

  2190. Without miles I would not be able to travel with my boyfriend because he hates to fly, hates small seats because he is 6 2 So business class has been my saving grace

  2191. still, nothing beats the feeling when the plane’s door closes and the vacation has begun!

  2193. That I’ve burned all of my Delta peso’s, so that I can enjoy life without looking at the brand again 🙂

  2194. With flights going up in price like crazy, awards can allow huge savings even with all of the devaluations.

  2195. We can fly with mommy and daddy on airplane to Japan and see grandma obaasan!

  2196. Being new to the game, I don’t know how it was before all this negative news, so I am still starry-eyed and excited!

  2198. I stumbled upon the miles and points world while researching a trip for my honeymoon. I couldn’t take advantage of any techniques since the trip was so close, but here’s hoping miles and points will make for memorable wedding anniversaries!

  2199. One good use of miles may be for emergency trips, where the normal fare may be too high. I’ve done this twice.

  2200. I’m able to fill up on Biscoff cookies and Nutella with access to Skyclubs with my AMEX Plat.

  2201. Airplanes and the experience of flying is just a straight-up mindwarp. But I’m good with eating and drinking in the sky!

  2203. Best travel blog out there! helped me and my family do things we otherwise could not do…

  2209. I love the way American treats me, even when I don’t get an upgrade. Exit row seat, free drink, free snack… It makes missing out on an upgrade somewhat bearable.

  2212. I love how even as good deals die (goodbye free stopovers at international gateway on AA), new good deals are born. I’ve been doing very well with the Orbitz best rate guarantee now that I’ve gotten used to the program’s quirks.

  2213. What positivity can I spew forth today ?.

    “LOTS” “………….I am not flying at all today!

  2216. Hey, free trips is free trips! (of course nothing in life is *really* free…)

  2218. Frequent flyer miles and the knowledge on these pages have helped me stay in touch and contact with my parents who live in Ohio and my brother who lives in Hawaii while I was Active Duty in the US Army. Now that I’ve transitioned from the Army I still try to keep up with the mileage deals to keep visiting friends and family all over the US and globally.

  2219. The best things in life are free – and the FF community goes a long way in showing you what those things are 🙂

  2220. Having a community of like-minded people. The people in my regular life think I’m crazy when I jet off somewhere for a long weekend – it’s nice to have a community of people who get me.

  2221. This hobby has given me a different perspective on many fronts, started to value my time with the ones I love as it provides me with the chance of a break, of a setting change of the daily routine.

  2223. the fact that there are still decent sign up bonuses is definitely a positive!

  2225. I really appreciate the wealth of knowledge that is available on travel blogs. In essence, its made traveling so much easier!!

  2227. I love finding ways to get minimum spend bonuses for cheap manufactured spend!

  2228. As a newbie on a budget, I’ve come to find that mileage redemption when combined with flight fare deals is invaluable in travelling the globe, perhaps the most convenient and best way to travel. The fun is exploring how far my miles will take me!

  2230. The Internet makes the knowledge and advice of the frequent traveler community available to anyone.

  2231. The travel blogger community is such an amazing resource! Thanks for all you do.

  2232. I continue to appreciate how readers share their creative ways to accrue points.

  2234. Going to Japan over Christmas vacation in business returning First plus the annual trip in business to Belgium with nice point hotel stays!

  2235. I loved helping book an AA Explorer trip <20,000 miles with 12 stops in business for 130K AA plus $215 in taxes for a favorite 22 year old Au pair (US-Asia-Middle East-Europe). It was merely $50 per hour in business class on JAL, Makaysia, CX, RJ, Air Berlin. Although I can not do it again it is fun to hear her adventures and smiling at the incredible value. Similar routes are doable with ANA & BA in some countries…Brazil, Austrailia, US, Japan…the fun is sobbing sweet spot awards and the smiles

  2236. Because of all the advice and miles i’ve accumulated thanks to tips from blogs such as these, i’m able to fly my girlfriend to bali in first class, and give my cousin a wedding gift of first class singapore airline tickets.

  2238. I flew first class on BA from DFW–>LHR–>ATH and back on miles. I experienced the LHR Concorde Room and sat next to a celebrity on one of the legs: all on miles. I would’ve never been able to afford the cost of the ticket had it not been for AAdvantage miles.

  2239. I can honestly say that reading blogs like yours definitely provide me with tidbits of info I’d have never thought about before. I saw one last week about the animals that pass through Dusseldorf. Amazing!

  2245. Since becoming a mom, the miles and points I earn go a long way to keeping my child connected to her grandparents, who can no longer travel internationally due to various health reasons.

  2247. Excited to start acummulating points & miles through informative blogs like yours!

  2250. I appreciate everyone’s blog posts and helpful comments from readers. I have learned from a lot of you. Thanks!

  2251. Miles and points can still be used for some sweet spots on the United mileage redemption chart

  2253. The first thing I do everyone morning is log into my emails and go onto boarding area, not always in that order. Thanks for helping me “ease” into my morning.

  2255. Love the free travel; simple! Regardless of devaluations it’s still free for the most part.

  2256. It is nice to read about mistake deals. Those are my favorite, even though they are hard to come by.

  2257. I am positive that my travels will continue to take me to new and interesting places despite changes in reward programs

  2258. Even thought the rules keep changing, I still manage to find some good deals with my points 🙂

  2259. Thanks to updates that I get from sites like

    Thanks to updates and tips that I get from site like VIEW, I feel I have a good chance to get the most out of my points. Thanks!

  2260. I have come to think of booking with points a game. It’s challenging, but sometimes you win 🙂

  2261. I’m happy that despite some devaluations of some points and miles programs, some others (SPG, Hyatt) have generally retained much of their value.

  2263. Even if the game is harder, you can still find value in certain situations. And of course, a blog like yours helps finding those. 🙂

  2267. Life is tough and everything will continue to devalue but savor every moment if possible and that’s what your blog had help us.

  2268. Like Forest Gump says, “Mama always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” 😀

  2269. On the bright side, they haven’t devalued miles into kilometers…yet.

  2270. Miles and points are the reason I’ve been able to travel as much as I do.

  2272. I am particularly positive about hotel points. It is still relatively easy to get rooms – even at the last minute.

  2273. Miles and Points turns complications into great expectations by being a mentor to those of us who are just learning how to create free flight!

  2275. I love miles and points because I found a wonderful group of obsessed people like me! 🙂

  2280. It is also nice to find and take advantage of mistake deals, when they happen.

  2286. All the changes to programs have increased public awareness of this hobby and my friends don’t look at me so strangely when I say I fly on points!

  2291. Even with devaluations, I can use miles to go more places and see more things in a better class of service than I would with cash.

  2292. I like getting to a hotel with friends and watching them be amazed as they offer us snacks and upgrades.

  2293. This is going to be heavy-handed, but I am Happy to live in a country where one of my problems is not getting as much as I use to for free.

  2294. The challenge of getting saver level Delta tickets! My family is baffled that I know how to do it.

  2295. There are still really unique things to do with miles that would otherwise be impossible or expensive, like stopovers in both directions on two Alaska airlines one-ways, or island hoppers, etc.

  2298. Blogs have given me a way to travel that I wouldn’t otherwise have been able to manage. Thanks!!

  2300. I also love experiencing business class, which I couldn’t afford otherwise.

  2301. There are still great value to be had with miles and points and way ways to earn them!

  2302. And being able to learn new things every day on forums and blogs like yours means a lot to me, too!

  2303. While getting tougher recently, the mileage game has allowed my family to travel someplace every year for free. I hope it keeps going!

  2304. Thanks to the points game, I can visit my grandparents in taiwan every year, which is important as they are getting up their in the years.

  2305. Even with the devaluation of Hilton Honors, their properties and services cater well for me, with family as they are often (always thus far), offers free extra bed for my kids wherever we go. SPG outside of the US loves to charge extra, AccorHotels & IHG depend on location and the reservation department, Marriott almost always and etc.

  2307. Super grateful for the ability to travel and often upgraded beyond my dreams.

  2308. We learn so much as a result of the blogs and have traveled to places we would likely have not gone.

  2309. Not having an expense account, finding ways to utilize credit cards for traveling ….. priceless.

  2311. Playing the game of miles and points is like a puzzle and you feel so good when you find a combination that is a win for you!

  2312. Love the bonuses that amount to free travel. I know we’re so used to it, but if you think about it, it’s crazy you can have that just for signing up for e credit card! 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway, Gary!

  2316. Thanks to miles and points, I’m seeing new places and taveling a lot more than I would without them.

  2317. I love collecting points! I look at it like a game- and am always trying to find new ways to win 🙂 People I work with used to think I was nuts UNTIL I told them that my husband and I just got Business Class tickets from Canada to Australia for free with points. Now they are all asking me how they should get started collecting!

  2320. Blogs like this one help keep me up to date without wading through press releases and sporadic postings

  2324. Getting ridiculously cheap hotel stays at random places a couple hours away.

  2327. I love collecting miles and points. Your blog is amazing. Thanks for all the work and the deals!

  2328. Miles have helped – and continue to help – make travel possible for my family of four!

  2329. Not having ‘paid’ for a hotel room in years after all the points I’ve earned based on good tips from people like Gary.

  2330. Love the daily topics!Seems like a lot of people traveling this spring. Be careful!

  2331. Love the daily topics!Seems like a lot of people traveling this spring. Be careful!

  2332. The blogs like this one really are great for keeping on top of the different programs and changes

  2333. Part of the fun of this hobby (or obsession) is just in constantly learning about new opportunities, destinations, and changes within this ever-changing game! This blog in particular is amazing in keeping us constantly updated!

  2334. I find that fellow travelers will tend to be helpful: assisting with bags, switching seats, etc. it helps make traveling more enjoyable!

  2335. I can’t believe all the places we have been on FF miles! The blogs have given me all sorts of information that I wish I had known years ago. Thanks for what you do!

  2337. Without miles, I wouldn’t get to have a great adventure each year exploring a new part of the world.

  2338. I am happiest when planning my next trip and figuring out how to have the best experience leveraging airline miles to do something I wouldn’t have been able to do otherwise.

  2339. This blog keeps me motivated to maximize mile earning through things I do everyday anyways!

  2340. Using miles and points, I’m able to fly my parents for a trip to HK on Cathay and a stay at the Conrad – a trip they would have never been able to do on their own!

  2341. Without miles, I wouldn’t be able to take my parents on a trip of a lifetime to Australia/NZ.

  2342. With miles and points, I’m taking the kiddos to Orlando – they are so excited!

  2346. I get to amaze my wife with free “stuff,” since she essentially remains oblivious to the “points and miles” game.

  2348. Thanks for providing ways to get free miles and points to extend accounts from expiring!

  2357. And first time in business class in 2 weeks. And a few free nights hotel stays in between.

  2358. I also enjoy random bonding experiences with friends and coworkers upon discovering that they also collect miles.

  2359. I love that no matter where I am going, there is a website or forum out there that my fellow travelers have created about my destination!

  2360. I enjoy the occasional bit of luxury included in vacations mostly focused on adventure: better airline seats and nicer hotels.

  2361. Thanks to points, being able to fly in business class at an economy class price! 🙂

  2362. One way awards are expected in the near future on Delta, so that’s some good news, at least for me.

  2363. I love being able to use points to make things happen that would be normally out of reach.

  2364. Your site is great and has been instrumental in getting me more involved in this hobby and all that it can offer!!

  2367. Not an entry but a comment: would like to know how others are able to insert a smiley icon into their post. Testing 1..2…3 🙂

  2370. Though the award is decreasing the value, we still get something out of them. Little is better than nothing!

  2374. I love reading about all the methods to earn points and your honest opinions of them.

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