I’m Giving My Readers $500 in Gift Cards, Just Leave a Comment to Enter!

by Gary Leff

Frequent Traveler University: December 5-7, Hyatt Regency Crystal City

The next Frequent Traveler University, in partnership with USA Today, promises to be the biggest gathering of frequent flyers ever — topping even last April’s sold out event in Northern Virginia.

The event will be held at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City minutes from Washington’s National airport.

It’s a fantastic venue to support us all, and Hyatt has made available (2) $250 Hyatt gift cards for me to give away here. Gift cards that could be used on your stay during Frequent Traveler University!

All you need to do to be eligible to win is leave a comment on this post. You may answer one of two questions,

  • What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? Or..
  • What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

Since there are two gift cards, and two questions, you may enter up to two times.

Just leave a comment or two comments and I will draw the winning comments at random from those left by October 14 at Noon Eastern. (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.)

And I hope to see you at the upcoming Frequent Traveler University!

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 »

More articles by Gary Leff »

Comments

  3. Should read the post eh?

    Host hotels should make sure that their elites can be catered for and make arrangements appropriate to the number of elites who will be attending the conference.

  5. The hotel hosting the conference should always greet the guests with welcome to the ….conference

  6. I would most want to learn the latest and greatest MS techniques and best ways to make award redemptions!

    Plus making new friends 🙂

  8. the most important thing a conference hotel can do is provide free wifi in the conference rooms…..for free!! I know organizations pay a lot for this.

  9. Problems one can run into when booking awards, esp. with foreign airlines. For ex., how hard is it to change/cancel on the various non-US based airlines? I have heard horror stories and would consider avoiding those airlines that make it esp. difficult tomake changes after booking.

  10. Host hotel should know that there will be a lot of award redemptions that week! And possibly lots of reviews to be posted 😉

  11. I would most want to meet people. I am successful in this hobby, and am happy with what I’ve done. But, it also seems like there’s an underground aspect to it as well.

  14. It would be really helpful to learn some more ways to MS. I need lot of miles to fly performers to Montana!

  17. I would most want to learn about the latest in manufactured spending. Things seem to be changing all of the time so keeping up to date can sometimes be difficult.

  18. I haven’t been to one of these (and don’t go to a lot of conventions!), but wi-fi and enough outlets is always a problem when I travel, whether I’m staying with my kids, in an airport, or in a hotel.

  20. I’d like to learn more about maximizing my spend for more miles and points. And how to maximize the places I can go with those miles and points, enjoying the trip as much as possible!

  21. I would like for the host hotel to keep a lot of award availability for the dates of the conference, knowing that’s how the majority of the attendees will be looking to stay.

  22. The host hotel should do their best to accommodate early check in & late check out requests!

  25. I’d want to learn the best ways to utilize a large amount of points toward flying first class, and how to efficiently search for new methods of MS so that I’m not just mooching off of everyone else…

  29. Answer to q1: how to maximize points and achieving status in the daily-changing points game (see delta and united)

  31. The most important thing for a host hotel to do is be extra helpful at first, then let guests have freedom to enjoy themselves.

  32. The hotel has to be prepared with enough staff to support a group who will all be doing things at the same time (lunch, potty breaks, checking out)

  33. A conference hotel need to know the surrounding restaurants in all price categories.

  37. A conference hotel should have 24 hour fitness facilities and allow for 24 hour CHECKIN to checkout allowing for maximum flexibility.

  43. I’m always interested in the pricing patterns of hotels and when they hit lows to maximize opportune times of booking reservations.

  48. Practical ways to overcome problems. How to find those hard to get first class saver fares, and things like that.

  50. what a conference hotel needs to do – needs to have a lounge open/available for use by attendees.

  52. I wish I could afford to do one of these training sessions as I am always low on time off and funds to spend on this.

  53. Step-by-step instructions on how best to construct and book aspirational flight itineraries.

  55. I’d love to know about earning patterns. I’m comparatively new, but have seen big shopping portal bonuses around Valentine’s day. Anything along those lines that would prime people for likely upcoming offers.

  59. Most important for Hyatt to know with a bunch of bloggers is to have adequate bandwidth and fast enough internet. At the Microsoft Global MVP Summit in Seattle I attend annually the Hyatt Wifi can bog down at times which is pretty embarassing given the event.

  63. I would like to how what bank still allows new accounts with CC, high limit, no hard credit hit.

  70. The host hotel has to provide sufficient staffing and space to make sure the conference run smoothly while other guests not attending the conference can still enjoy their stay despite the conference crowd.

  73. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?
    Roughly a summary of what everyone blogs about

  75. I like FTU for learning to know new people who are doing interesting things in this space and sharing tips.

  77. Lots of pressure on the host hotel! So many knowledable guests who probably have status…….

  78. Hotel should know conference is happening and adjust elevator patterns during breaks/end of conference to prevent bog down

  80. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Have a business center with free internet!!! I know most carry their laptop/wifi devices etc. but I like having desktop computers for use since I tend to be more productive in the business rooms

  81. Host hotels should make sure that their rooms are ready ahead of time if they’re having a conference, that way if your flight arrives before official check in time you don’t have to wait around in the lobby. I’ve seen Board of directors as well as those with status have to wait for their room big no no.

  87. 1. I’d want to learn how to maximize hotel points more such as stay 5 nights and the last night is free, use promo codes to reduce number of points required for a stay.

  88. I would like pointers on booking complicated multi destination, multi airline tickets such as for a tour of Europe.

  89. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? It would be there personal best secret for getting points for cheap 🙂

  90. Conference Hotels should address the subject matter of the various conferences they are hosting to personalize the experience.

  91. They’re thoughts on the best redemption for each type of frequent flyer miles since there seem to be constant changes in regards to one ways, rtw, stop overs, etc..

  94. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Make sure to acknowledge the members status in program and make sure to award points!!!

  95. I’d love to hear more about booking a reward flight on American using a combination of Avios and Aadvantage miles. Probably not possible, but it would be awesome for me if it could happen.

  96. I’ve not been to a frequent flyer conference and still feel like a bit of a newbie, but I’m guessing that the networking is really great.

  97. I would suggest to the host hotel that they not close the Regency Club during FTU. I know the Club would probably be overrun by Diamonds, but I’ve heard of hotels setting up temp lounges in either the bar or some other room if they are projected to be over-capacity.

  101. Wifi and poewr outlets are a must

    Also make sure you take into consideration things like a gluten allergy during snack time

  102. I would like to learn people’s favorite places they’ve been on miles and points and how they did it.

  103. Host hotel need to make sure they have enough flow of adult beverage throughout the whole event!

  108. The most important thing for a conference hotel is to make sure there is enough seating at meals and conference sessions and to have contingency plans in case there is not.

  110. Gary,

    For the hosting hotel space, especially if conference is held, that would adequate rest areas and hydration locations.

    Best,

    PedroNY

  112. How far in advance to plan FF miles tickets and how to be persistent yet polite when trying to score those tickets.

  115. I’d like the host hotel to have good WiFi in the conference rooms! (Something not accomplished by the Seattle Airport Marriott at that FTU.)

  116. I would like to know any tips, secrets for attaining elite status with regards to the new qualifications that are required.

  120. I’d like to learn more about travel to not so typical locations that can be had with points.

  124. Learn more about redeeming points on partner airlines (especially for flights within Asia!)

  137. I would most want to know what the latest trends are going to be in the airline industry (i.e., where frequent flyer programs and benefits are headed).

  145. Main question for me is easiest way to spend to minimums now that Amazon payments is no more.

  158. I’d like to learn how to actually search and find LAN award space to Easter Island, since I’ve tried everything at this point.

  161. Do you manage your points stash as a portfolio and diversify? If so when do you know have too many points of particular group

  167. I’d like to learn what programs we should look towards now that so programs have devalued their mileage.

  172. Love to learn new FF airline & hotel bonus strategies from the experts for 2015!! (And love to win a $250 #Hyatt Hotel gift card!!). Thanks so much.

  174. I’d like to learn how to use my points most effectively in last-minute situations. It seems that the majority of the points I use are in those “must be there tomorrow” situations when flexibility isn’t an option.

  175. Host hotels need to know who they’re catering to: not just an average group, but one with a lot of specialized knowledge in that particular area!

  178. Most important thing for a conf host hotel to know is that first impressions will go far when travel lovers are in-house. 🙂

  179. 2) share details in advance in writing of how to use the shuttle from both DCA and the crystal city Metro stop. Just stayed at this property as a Diamond member and found it a bit tricky to get all the info properly communicated and explained to me.

  181. With all the news about a hotel chain blocking wifi the host hotel should make sure they can support those at the hotel with wifi!

  185. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to know or to do is have lots of water, coffee and tea easily available for attendees in every conference room.

  188. I most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers how to best use our points: where to go, what flights to take, how to convert, when to buy extra points to top up.

  202. I would want to learn the best way to maximize airline miles that can be redeemed across a variety of different channels (e.g. Ultimate Rewards; AXEX; own airline site).

  207. A conference hotel must truly know what the conference is about so they can support them properly.

  208. Most important thing for a conference hotel to know is that everybody is going to be asking for an upgrade based on their Diamond status 😛

  209. On the host conference hotel side, I would want to make sure that they are providing complementary WIFI (codes/passes if necessary) to everyone attending.

  211. At a gathering of frequent flyers, I would want to know whose got the most miles, and would you please give us some because your hogging them. .

  212. I’d love to learn about the best redemptions among the most popular mileage/points programs!

  213. Conference hotels should remember that all attendees to conferences are professions, including people who are young in age. I attended a conference in March and was questioned if I was old enough to really be at the conference.

  215. At a gathering of frequent flyers, I’d want to learn how to make your own “around the world” itinerary with points, now that all the alliances’ are gone as of next year!

  216. With such a large gathering, I would like to learn the art of fuel dumping.

    The host hotel should be aware that many of the guests will have status with their hotel chain and make arrangements to recognize them in as special way as possible.

  220. for the host hotel to make sure they set aside enuf rooms far enuf in advance for the anticipated crowd

  221. To me the most important thing a conference and convention hotel should have is plenty of elevator’s. I’m tired of playing the what goes up must come down game when the elevators are always full.

  223. I’d like to learn what all the BA bloggers do for their day jobs that has them globetrotting the world so much.

  224. I would like to know how to efficiently earn and redeem miles & points for a family of 4 or larger.

  226. Conference hotel should know that everybody will redeem gold pass points for the frequent traveler conference week!

  233. The hotel should provide free wifi to all attendees and wire the conference tables with AC power for laptops and phones.

  234. I’d like to learn where to get one of those secret decoder rings which gets you access to secret mileage cabals.

  235. I want hotels to either stop BRGs or play fair, rather than making up the rules as they go along. Specifically Hyatt and IHG.

  236. I know some bloggers recommend applying a round of credit cards (4-6) every 91 days…I want to learn how they meet a total of, say, $15,000 minimum spend in 3 months to get all the sign up bonuses? MS $10,000 in 3 months seems like a lot…I am not sure I cna buy $10,000 worth of GC and even so, you need to spend it at a later time (but at a later time you have another round of $15,000 minimum spend to meet!)

  238. What I would like to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers are some of the best ‘unknown’ destinations to visit in the US and world

  239. I would most like to learn which other attendees have the same particular interests as I do, so I can socialize and discuss the specific sub-categories of most interest (be it credit cards, manufactured spend, award redemption, or status chasing via personal or business)

  240. Best thing for a conference hotel to do is to ensure there are enough taxis/shuttles available so people can come and go with ease

  242. Host hotels need to price the cost of wifi into the contract/fees of the organizer if it is not provided at no cost. Attendees do not want to be stuck with exorbitant fees for routine access. That is what they will remember and comment on.

  245. I would quiz the frequent flyers on their methods to pack light, yet still have what you need on trips.

  246. Charge as a package everything. Parking, internet, breakfast etc…this will help streamline expense reports.

  247. The most important thing that the host hotel needs to ‘know’ is that these guests are not your regular travelers. They will probably all write about their stay and experience (even the bathroom just runs out of toilet paper) on their blogs afterward so the hotel will get free good/bad PR depending on how it performs. Four words: just don’t screw up.

  248. A conference host hotel needs to ensure there is Wifi for the guests, reasonable priced Wifi if they cannot use their own.

  252. At a gathering of frequent flyers I want to find out what are their most cherished earning activity and and what was the most enriching reward they redeemed for

  253. Have a streamlined transportation process between host hotel and airport for attendees who are not staying at the host hotel.

  254. At a gathering of frequent flyers, I want to find out how they started, what got them hooked.

  257. A conference host hotel needs to know the weather forecast to ensure all incoming delegates are able to join, or if any alternate arrangements need to be made, the hotel can provide a helping hand.

  258. I’d like to learn more about award flights in countries domestically like Australia, NZ, China.

  259. I’d like to learn how to maximize my spend for more miles and points and how to maximize the places I can go with collected miles and points without paying any cash!!!

  262. Hello Gary Leff

    What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?
    -Would like to know secrets not yet published online to earn miles. How a guy with no a low paying job, no credit card, bad credit can actually travel the world?

  264. One thing I don’t see discussed much is when and how to ask for compensation when airline operations (not weather, not force majeure) are clearly at fault for either an extended delay, canceling your flight, or for bumping you. There are clear guidelines for bumping, but for delays and cancellations, which can be just as severe, I’ve found that airlines rarely cough up a simple meal voucher, much less real compensation.

  268. I would like for the host hotel to keep a lot of award availability for the date during the conference that the majority of the attendees can stay without any hassle!!

  270. I would like to learn how to gain your trust…So we can be friends and share points secrets that have never been on the internet!

  272. In a light-hearted manner, to answer the host hotel question, I’d offer that host hotels often overcharge participants based upon the convenience factor. Perhaps they are willing to sacrifice those folks who are wise enough to find nearby (sometimes next door) hotels at a sizable discount to the host facility.

  275. The host hotel should deliver a consistent experience for all guests. Business as usual in an ideal world.

  276. I would like to learn who advocates on behalf of consumers in this ever so volatile market.

  277. I think a host hotel with complimentary coffee is key. OR flexibility to work with the wide array of customers needs.

  280. I would like to hear about where the experts see the future of frequent flyer programs heading.

  288. I think the most important thing for a conference host hotel to do it to make it easy for attendees to find and attend the various functions associated with the conference.

  289. I think I’d like some emphasis on logistics. Booking engines, partner searches. Etc. with some hands on demos. Things to maximize value on the burn side of the equation.

  291. At the conference, I’d like to learn about ways to earn miles for paying bills for things that don’t take traditional credit cards. The recent changes to Bluebird have made it much harder.

  292. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? Advanced techniques of manufactured spending to generate/maximize Points

  295. I would like to learn why I, a budget leisure-only traveler, should/shouldn’t stick with an airline that’s going revenue-based mileage earning.

  297. Host hotels for conferences should always make sure they have adequate bandwidth and wireless infrastructure – how irritating is it when connectivity breaks down?

  299. I’d want to learn more about booking award tickets-using web tools to search partners, free one ways, fuel dumping etc.

  301. Provide free wi-fi that works well throughout the hotel and is FAST. >> What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

  302. The topic I’d like to learn more about is finding award availibility for scarce business and first class seats.

  303. I would most like to know how much time other people spend trying to book an award ticket. I can’t decide if using a booking service or not is worth it but it seems like it takes a long long time to search all the various scenarios (transfer partners, availability, time-specific deals, etc etc). A few hours per trip? A couple days?

  304. At an event like this the most important thing is to have good solid Wi-Fi. In the past it would have been to be located next to a CVS that sold Vanilla’s for cash, but hey, times change.

  306. A conference hotel should be adequately equipped with modern audio/video, fast wifi, enough power outlets, and dedicated staff.

  311. I’d want to know the secrets that are not posted on blogs but only hinted at (we only learn about those when they stop working!).
    Also, tutorials for how to use more unusual mile currencies (not UA or DL or AA or the other common ones)

  312. Manufacture spending >> What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    Thanks Gary!

  317. I’d like to get plugged into the contact network for “Trick It” techniques…without all the cryptic hurdles

  318. I’d love for a frequent traveler conference to discuss the best travel destinations to use for rewards, besides the obvious ones that come up all the time. The blogs never discuss Europe, for example… where would be good places to visit (on points) in Europe?

  320. It’s really helpful when a conference hotel knows the schedule of the conference, and takes that into account in their staffing . For example, if the sessions end at 4:30, making sure the bar/lounge is open for drinks by then. Or having plenty of front desk staff processing check-outs on the last day of the conference.

  321. most want to learn at FTU – tricks on how to best use American miles for premium awards.

    host hotel should know – that rooms should have adequate outlets

  322. With all those attendees, the most important thing for a conference hotel to do is to have strong, reliable, and fast internet connections, both wired and wireless!

  324. I’d like to like to learn how to maximize business card offers, including minimum requirements for getting various business card offers.

  327. I’ll go with Ryan’s idea. Europe, Europe, Europe. Everybody’s always going on about Asia. I suppose that’s in some part because the flights are long and the carriers are better. But honestly, there’s just not much there that interests me. Also, how about ideas for forming a FF special interest group to lobby? Hell, with points we could fund better junkets for Congress than the industry could!

  328. A conference host hotel makes sure to have strong wifi signals everywhere inside the conference room.

  329. I would like to learn about the most efficient MS techniques to maximize earning miles, especially in the coming world of revenue-based mileage programs.

  332. Ugh… I SOO wish could I could go! Attending an FTU session is definitely on my to-do list! Will try for next year.

  336. Conference host hotel should make sure there are enough staff to make the ci,co process easy and quick

  337. Can’t wait to learn more ways to manufacture spending…been struggling since I stopped being able to find Vanilla Reloads!

  339. The Hyatt better be ready for a LOT of people who will be VERY concerned about the points opportunities for the weekend. 🙂

  340. Would like to learn more on MS techniques and any non-US & unpopular frequent flyer programs that needs to be explored

  347. Any hotel hosting a large group of frequent flier nerds needs to be prepared for a large number elite members and have the proper provisions for lounge and any other amenities.

  349. Question 1) The thing I’d most want to know about is off-the-beaten track savings for hotels and resorts. Really cool destinations that aren’t the usual top choices and that are great values for points or points + money.

  350. I would share my knowledge of MS techniques and hope that I could learn from others.

  351. Question 2) I think the thing a host hotel needs to handle best during a conference is how to handle / manage the higher than normal wifi usage that usually happens without slowing the internet down to a crawl.

  355. I would like to learn how current freq travelers are prepping for for the future of this game with all the recent devaluations and negative changes to loyalty programs.

  358. What I want to learn: something that is buried deep in the forums, that is handy to know, but doesn’t become a big deal if brought up (and then blogged about it).

  360. Host hotels should know which guests are there for the convention and greet them accordingly. They should also provide vouchers or deals to showcase the hotels food/drink amenities at a discount for convention guests.

  364. For the hotel: that having drink options are good. I have been to a couple of these where the drinks at lunch were quite limited. I get it is a big event, but serving coffee, not just tea and water, is helpful. 🙂

  365. I want to meet like-minded travellers. Travelling solo for business and miles can get mundane.

  369. Share my MS tips and learn new ones. Host Hotel should not upgrade anyone to reduce complaints! HA!

  375. Host hotel should provide free transportation to/from airport for attendees (even if organizers do not include it in price of event).

  377. What I would most like to learn is whether the recent changes (devaluations, new spend requirements and overall worsening of airline programs) are here to stay, or this is just part of a cycle we’re in. In other words, at some point when travel demand decreases, will we see some of the perks return? Or is this essentially game-over for many of us who enjoy the MR hobby?

  378. I want to learn how to maximize availability to hotels with points, while minimizing cards that charge annual fees.

  384. Would love to know why hotels outside of the US have great lounges with food/alcohol, while US hotel lounges just suck…it can’t just be cost, can it?

  386. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    I would most like to learn long term strategies for maximizing miles & points earnings after exhausting the usual credit card sign-up bonuses.

  390. The host hotel should know that we are a group that will stay up late talking travel/deals/etc. If they have a bar, restaurant, or lounge, they should plan to keep it open late and have staff for a large group.

  393. At first I thought ur T&C said all ur decisions are unappreciated lol. Looking forward to FTU as I sit having tea on the Sheraton on the Park Sydney executive lounges terrace during my #RTW14 award trip

  395. A host hotel for Frequent Traveler University should give each guest a gift in room that commemorates the event.

  398. At Frequent Traveler University I would like to learn how to get the most travel value for the least amount of points and/or miles.

  399. It is important for the conference hotel to have outlets for recharging electronic devices!

  400. The most important things for a conference host to know are to have easily accessible and fast wifi and to keep good, strong coffee on hand

  401. At a gathering of frequent flyers, I want to know what was the most challenging award they ever booked.

  402. I’d want to learn how to leverage points for family travel…so many tips seemed geared for one traveler with lots of flexibility. The math changes when there are three or more travelling.

  406. Conference hotels need to ensure the meeting spaces are the proper temperature once they are full of people. Too warm and everyone falls asleep.

  408. a fair structure for room upgrade from the conference hotel is appreciated, given the majority of customers having elite status

    thanks Gary

  409. I think Conference hotels should not clean the restrooms adjacent to the conference rooms during the scheduled break time but should clean them regularly.

  410. I’d most like to learn about best way to book award flights for least miles and most locations

  413. Conference hotel should understand the type of guest they’ll be having for a particular conference. This conference will likely have some pretty discerning guests…

  417. With many MS strategies ending, such as Amazon payments & lack of Walmarts in NYC, I would like to learn more and new ways to accumulate points.

  418. Thanks to all this blogs I’ve gotten a good idea of how to increase the number of points I have (by a lot), but I still always have a hard time finding award travel that works for me (and goes where I want to go). Tips on how to maximize those would be top on my list of what to learn. Part of that would be what places tend to be overlooked that have great award travel.

  420. It’d be important to make sure temperatures are well controlled at each conference rooms – if there are a lot of people, it’s easily stuffy. If there aren’t a lot of people, it’s freezing!

  422. Hi, I want to know more about TSA and how to make security more rational, evidence based and effective

  425. The hotel must provide free wifi as well as good in-room coffee with real cream and real sugar.

  426. I would appreciate at least one seminar on the maximizing of special tickets such as RTW tickets. (This of course in light of the fact that now Delta and American have eliminated these awards).

  427. “What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?”. Finding what the latest news and tricks.

  429. Most important thing for a host hotel is to provide GOOD coffee in the mornings. Actually, that applies to all hotels.

  431. I would like to learn the most time efficient ways to maximize frequent flier miles.

  433. Most interesting thing I’d like to know about is how to take advantage of premium cabin fares that originate in other countries!

  434. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? Or..

    Common mistakes people make when booking awards.

  436. Host should definitely make sure they have a good sound system. Lots of us are hard of hearing!

  438. I’d like to learn more about MS and business credit cards for those of us without a sophisticated business plan…

  439. What I’d really love to learn about is “How to automate the systems” Everyone here is doing multiple things, but some have brought it to a perfect T. Everything seems organized and well run, the credit card dues date, to manufactures spend receipts to mileage run deals, everything comes to them so easy. There has to be a system that can be taught so that this hobby doesn’t spiral into a debt of late fees and high interests.

  441. Conference host hotel should be able to direct guests to convenient mini getaway options for drinks, food, points of interest, for a quick change of scenery and back in an hour

  444. Hotels hosting conventions should do a better job of posting signage and directions to events.

  446. What the host hotel needs to know is that they are the “chosen ones” for this group and that they are in it together with the group organizing the event. How they do reflects upon their clients who just booked them and that simple things like Free Wi-Fi, Multiple outlets, Water and perhaps special desk of concierge services just for that group would go a long way. There will be someone there attending who’d think its awesome and would want to host their next event there too. It’s a pay it forward in a Zappos style customer service way.

  452. I would want to learn high and low end miles/points earnings in a year for those in attendance. I would like to be able to gauge my own earnings.

  453. I’m curious. Do the same people usually attend? What is the churn on this ?
    I’d like to know.

  455. I’d be happy to see View from the Wing “live”, rather than on RSS every morning reading the latest and the best he prepared for us – mile chasers ))

    Thanks Gary! You’re definitely the best in your Class!

  460. I’d like for the hotel to treat me as a special customer whether I’m traveling with my “special” husband or not.

  468. Ok, maybe not *the* most important thing, but it would be great if hotels kept the temperature in the conference rooms above freezing. It’s just sad to look around the room and see half the attendees wearing coats.

  474. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? “What is a group of FF called?” A gaggle?

  476. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is to provide the best technical support to the attending guests, given today’s penetration of technology in people’s life.

  477. If a particular location was hosting this type of conference , I would hope they understand how important customer service is, with all the social media reporting on their establishment.

  478. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? “Not charge for Wifi”

  479. At a gathering of FFs, I’d want to know the details of CANCELING credit cards… if you have too many cards from a bank relative to your income, you’d have to close one to open another. Well, if we’re talking BoA, how long after closing the one could you apply for another?

  481. Although food choices for conference meals are often decided by conference organizers, it would be nice if host hotels offered conference organizers plenty of healthy food options for breakfast/lunch/dinner (e.g., often sandwiches served during conferences come pre-loaded with mayo…ick)!

  483. Hotels hosting conferences should have ample seating in open spaces between conference halls so that attendees can rest on their way from one session to the next. Also, catering should go beyond hot dogs and soft pretzels.

  487. Hotels (host) need to understand the needs and expectations of frequent travelers. No better forum than this to exchange ideas.

  488. The most important thing a host hotel can do is have sufficient internet bandwidth for the expected attendees.

  489. The host hotel needs to know what the conference organizers are expecting for their group. After that, all they need to do is meet those expectations. I know. That often doesn’t happen but that’s what should happen.

  491. Most important thing for a host hotel to know? The number of participants and the corresponding logisitical requirements

  492. Manufactured spending ideas not spelled out in black and white with arrows. Ideas on how to start the creative process on MS would be great.

  497. I would most want to learn how to collect enough frequent flier miles to travel the world for the rest of my life at a gathering of frequent flyers.

  499. I would like to know various ways to maximize frequent flier miles without using credit cards.

  500. 1. I would like to know more about searching for awards, especially on partners, and using search tools, such as matrix airfare search, expert flyer, etc. I know much of the info has been posted, but it would be good to have consolidated.
    2. The host hotel needs to know how many guests will be attending so they will have adequate staffing and Internet bandwidth to accommodate all the attendees.

  501. Greeting from Taiwan.

    I would like to know “top” secrets bloggers know during the FF conferences

  502. I would like to know what other manufacturing spend techniques there are, especially with Amazon Payments shutting off. Thanks!

  503. The most important thing for a conference host to do is to give 15-20 minute breaks every couple of hours for bathroom breaks, discussion between attendees, etc.

  506. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    More about airline alliances and how best to leverage for upgraded travel

  507. ,1. I would like to know more about searching for awards, especially on partners, and using search tools, such as matrix airfare search, expert flyer, etc. I know much of the info has been posted, but it would be good to have consolidated.
    2. The host hotel needs to know how many guests will be attending so they will have adequate staffing and Internet bandwidth to accommodate all the attendees.

  508. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Don’t run out of booze and wine – most people attending aren’t used to paying for drinks when traveling, lol

  511. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is to have a bed that is to die for, in a city that has tons of things to do, with scenery that will make others jealous once they see the photos you take.

  516. Re: what should a conference hotel know? Don’t pull a “Marriott” and block personal wifi networks!

  522. I’d like to know other “non-public” ways to manufacture spend – and something that won’t get pulled right away.

  525. I think host hotels should offer bonus incentives for both those planning and those attending the event.

  537. I’d most want to learn about when different airlines start releasing inventory for different periods during the year.

  540. The hotel hosting the conference should always provide FREE WiFi. I am surprised that there are still lots hotels charge fees for internet service. This should always be free nowdays.

  541. 1 – I’d be curious to know how many manufactured spend and get credit cards with no destination in mind.

  543. Conference host hotels should be aware a large number of guests also means a large number of elite members so should do some advance planning/allocation to ensure upgrades are processed fairly

  547. How do you survive being a Frequent Flier/Loyalty member (Delta; US Air; United; etc.) of a major member with all the devaluations; removal of perks; removal of rewards; upgrades, etc. if you are NOT a weekly or bi-weekly Business Traveler but still travel frequently enough for either business or pleasure that being a member of these ‘programs’ means enough to you that the new ‘downgrades ‘ “hurt” and may ruin any future chances of the programs offering meaningful, useful and helpful tools for making travel on the airline fruitful?

  550. Conference hotels are responsive to the requests, requirements and budgetary constraints imposed by the organizers, but are held accountable to the expectations and preferences of the conference attendees. A little counsel and negotiation – and perhaps a concession or two – yields reward for the conference hotel (and its brand) in the end.

  553. I hope it doesn’t make me a bad person but the most important thing I expect from a conference hotel is an open bar/ hospitality hour in the evening where comped adult beverages are served. It just makes it easier to talk to people and find out where the rare birds (OK you now know I mostly go to birding events) or whatever “secrets” are out there.

  558. ◾What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? A top ten list arrived at by polling the attendees (of their favorite tips and tricks for earning miles).

  559. ◾What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? Be sure the WiFi is working in the areas where the conferences are taking place. And… not try to block the portable WiFi hotspots that people may bring (thereby forcing guests to buy the hotel’s WiFi service).

  563. Would be great to know how to truly maximize and use points (collected a lot, don’t spend as fast as I accumulate)

  564. Conference hotels should know that they should create situations where people at the conference can meet–shouldn’t be left up to pure chance.

  565. The most important thing for a conference host hotel is to check in guests and have alll documentation ready for pick up as soon as they arrive. The kind of congestion you get at these places at check in is unbelievable at time.

  566. I would like to learn about credit cards and the signup bonuses game!

    Especially about the cards that have transferable points.

  567. A conference host hotel should not assume their guest(s) know all the hotel has to offer.

  569. I would like to learn how to check availability online for different awards using miles. I find it extremely difficult to remember how and where to find the right kind of availability.

  571. A hotel hosting a conference should always have GOOD free coffee service available. It’s amazing how bad the coffee is sometimes.

  572. At a FF conference, I’d like to hear how bloggers pay for travel? What are the inside secrets to free comps?

  573. Conferences will likely have a number of elites that will make club lounges more crowded than usual.

  574. OK, for my other entry, what I would want to know from frequent flyers specifically? How they handled it the first time one of their known associates got arrested is the big question that springs to mind…

  575. Host hotels should be prepared for unexpected requests. The expected ones are easy, but sometimes attendees might ask for advil, or extra toothbrush, or what have you. What I meant to say is that there are things that are outside of the standard conference “contract” that the hotel won’t be blamed for not having, but will get huge cookie points if they can provide, and with an event with a lot of participant, this is a huge reputation boost.

  578. Host hotels should be welcoming and not trying to cash in extra on the conference attendees by charging more for the little things then the regular cost.

  581. I think the most important thing for me is to discuss the MS opportunities I may not be familiar with so I can get a companion pass.

    Thx and good luck to all!!

  583. I would want to learn more about using international frequent flyer programs for award redemptions and where their sweet spots are.

  584. Conference hotels should know the best restaurants and coffee shops in the area (preferably within walking distance) and have directions for how to get there.

  585. A conference hotel needs comfy chairs and enough seating areas for people to gather as well as free WIFI

  586. I would most like to learn how to get the best use for the miles I have earned. To me earning is easier than spending.

  587. A conference host hotel should be able to give very good details and advice about the local area.

  590. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do would be to simply get to know the guest. 🙂 A little gesture goes a long way!

  591. I would want to learn some idea of the future of credit card bonuses. Will they dry up? Also, a better understanding of how to use Am EX points. And ways to get around high taxes with award tickets from European Airlines. Also, can one upgrade to Lufthansa’s Premium EC with miles?

  592. At a gathering I think it would bee cool to hear about manufacturing spend, along with the other side of the ledger how to best spend those miles and pints.

  593. A conference hotel best to do would be having the best communications whether it be wi-fi in the bed room to a superb communications set up in the actual conference hall/room.

  594. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? = How to successfully do a BRG for an overseas IHG hotel. This seems near impossible.

  597. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? = Have working wi-fi that doesn’t suck when hundreds of conference-goers are connected to it.

  598. Conference hotel needs to understand the group it is hosting so they know what to have on hand. In the case of FTU-wifi would be good as well as competitive packaging of stay/parking, etc.

  600. I actually wouldn’t mind learning about the airlines’ point of views/sides of frequent flyer. We as customers always complain about frequent flyers, but maybe it is in fact costing the airlines much more money than we know of. I want to hear their side of the story. Maybe it is not so good for them too! haha…

    I think conference host hotels should always provide free WiFi to its attendees.

  606. I’d like to learn some basic guidelines on what tier/type of flights are the best uses for miles.

  610. What I would like most to learn at a FF conference would be how to make contacts that I could learn from in the future. I’m new to this and I recently lost my job with an airline. I live for travel and by obtaining miles it keeps me close to my family 2000+ miles away. It also allows me to continue my hopes of exploring the world and learning of different cultures and ways of life.

  611. “In partnership with USA TODAY”? Enjoy your short-term profit from this affiliation but once UST publishes its stories, kiss this hobby goodbye as every bored, middle-America housewife blunders into the “free” points and travel arena. wtf.

  612. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? They should give a bag with information brochures and favors to all attendees

  613. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? I would like to know all the inside secrets and information most people don’t know.

  622. A table of all the star alliance airlines comparing What is the best place to credit flights from member airlines.

  623. I think I would like to hear about MS methods that failed, so that discussions can be generated to maybe turn that method into a viable one.

  626. I’d love some info on how to reclaim credit card rewards points if a trip has to be cancelled, something not covered by trip insurance!

  627. 2. Have proper working wifi! I hate it when the bandwidth of the hotel can’t handle so many people.

  629. 1. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    A: Details of things I won’t see on blogs. Top aspirational trips from each of the presenters 🙂

  630. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    For FTU? Pretty much everything!!

  635. Host hotels should make sure that their WiFi performance in hotel rooms, public areas, and meeting/conference rooms is seamless and flawless and with high performance throughout. Especially during FTU’s where participants need to have high performing online access to “hands on” try tips and techniques presented.

  636. Unlike Europe, Africa, esp East Africa like Tanzania and Kenya, hasn’t been talked about much in most blogs. I’d like to learn about finding F seats to Africa.

    Thanks for doing the giveaway!

  652. The host hotel needs to make sure that they put on extra bar staff during the conference — convention attendees have been known to drink !

  653. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?
    Pockets of value in existing award charts/how to take advantage of disappearing awards i.e. delta rtw

  655. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?
    keep costs reasonable and provide free fast wifi

  656. The most important thing a hotel should know is the importance of wi-fi for all and free is nice too

  657. I would like to learn more about earning and better utilization of the various points and miles i have.

  659. Ironically, I’m attending a conference in early November at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City (a literary convention, not a frequent flyer one).

    But if I was able to attend Frequent Flyer U, I would like to know a few more tips aimed at European frequent flyers.

  660. What is the easiest way to book one-world awards that don’t show up on American’s website (i.e. Cathay Pacific? Is there a way to do this without calling?

  661. I would like to learn advanced ticketing techniques for open jaws and round-the-world type of redemptions.

  662. For any sort of conference, the host hotels needs to be ready to provide FREE wifi to all attendees. It’s 2014. Come on, this is a must.

  668. I would like to learn more tricks to booking the trips I really want (how to use miles). Also, I love learning about MS things.

  669. I’d like the conference hotel to have tons of signage for meeting attendees (schedules and maps too)

  672. Conference host hotels should both provide Wifi and distribute the password to attendees. Sounds simple but it has impacted several events I have attended.

  675. conference host need to provide ample time for meal breaks for the attendees. Providing discounted parking at the hotel or near by is always appreciated. And convenient coffee/tea/snack stations during breaks. Have fun!

  677. There are so many things I could learn. I live locally and still can’t find the time to go. Someday…

  678. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    tips on getting luxury travel and perks for miles.

  679. I’d like to learn how I can raise my expectations on what I can achieve with upgrades.

  681. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Free hi speed wifi. But beyond that, some conference -specific perks would be welcome. Something that indicates the hotel knows why the attendee is there, and appreciates the opportunity to host the event.

  682. Answer to question #1:

    Imagine all those “frequent travelers” in the same place. Of course, they really are NOT “frequent travelers” but gamers in a “hobby”.

    The horror.

    The horror…

  683. Answer to question #2:

    I’ve always appreciated conference hotel properties that provide points of contact in each of the hotel’s departments (e.g., housekeeping, F & B, maintenance, etc).

  685. I would most want to learn how to best handle credit card application reconsideration phone calls.

  686. Conference hotels providing coffee as an elite perk need to know that some people are early risers. 6 am is far too late to open the coffee shop!!!

  691. I would like to know how to easily reserve a frequent flier ticket on a related (same family, etc) airline. I just don’t know how to do that.

  697. Hotel’s need to plan their staffing to minimize the long lines for check in and check out at conferences as well as lines to get into their breakfast and lunch restaurant(s).

  698. Details about booking award travel on airlines that can be a bit more complicated or challenging (Korean Air)

  699. For a conference hotel, treat each client as an individual, and don’t assume that the same menu of services will be useful or necessary for all groups.

  700. Host hotels need to make sure they either staff the front desk adequately or have a separate check-in area for dozens of attendees who will be arriving at (or near) the same time. There’s nothing worse than waiting for the one or two overworked desk staff who wish they’d quit their job yesterday!

  702. Used to do a Platinum mileage run every winter. Fun!
    No longer… tips on how to make it ‘fun’ again!?

  703. I’d like to know more about how to utilize earned seat upgrades if one loses status. It seems like the airlines won’t allow you to use them at all and they just sit in an account. This has been my experience with American.

  705. I have $30,000 in unbonused spend coming up. I’d discuss strategies for maximizing the value of that.

  706. I would like to see the host hotel make amenities available to all registered conference participants, not just registered guests. Last time I was at an event, I wanted to use the hotel’s airport shuttle, but since I was staying elsewhere to earn points, I had to go back to my own hotel first. I understand they can’t offer that to just anyone off the street, but if someone is at their property participating in group that spends a lot of money there, they should at least be able to offer a shuttle ride to a conference-goer on a space available basis.

  708. I’d like to see the hosts make sure the room temperature isn’t frigid. Seems to be a really small detail, but many conferences seem to keep the temp cold enough to keep ice cream in the room. Otherwise, holding sessions for people of varying knowledge on the travel industry would be excellent.

  709. If the hosting hotel provided a small amenity along with a welcome note to all conference participants, it would be a great way to start off. it wouldn’t cost the hotel much, and is a nice welcome. People just getting started in the business may not have status yet and would appreciate the gesture.

  713. I would like to know which miles tip use for certain trips. … basically the best use of miles and some unknown tips and tricks to make the miles go farther!

  714. From the frequent milers who blog I would want to know how they balance the line of letting people know about the golden opportunities without hitting critical mass where the offers are then clawed back.

  716. A conference hotel host needs to know that dozens, hundreds, or thousands of people will be leaving at once at the end of the conference and they should have cabs/shuttles/car service ready to go

  717. A hotel hosting a conference should provide free wifi not only in common areas, but also in attendees rooms.

  719. I would like to learn how to compare and contrast elite benefits with my travel patterns to be sir I am taking advantage of both reward redemptions and elite benefits that matter to me the most!

  723. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to know and/or do is roll out the red carpet for this occasion. There’ll be a lot of well connected guests staying at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City from Dec. 5-7. The Hyatt Regency would be well served to explain how guests can obtain elite status, the benefits that come with each, and perhaps offer a special one-time “sample” of these benefits, e.g. a one-time breakfast pass and/or visit to the executive lounge.

  724. I like to learn about award bookings and how you can sometimes call in to get around things not listed on the award site itself.

  725. Most important thing for a host hotel to know about the conference is the profile/flow of an event because that will make or break the event.

  726. I would most want to learn all about currently available opportunities for “manufactured spending.”

  727. I would want to learn more about United and Star Alliance. I’ve previously mostly focused on American and OneWorld.

  728. What I would most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers involves the once central, albeit controversial, issue that keeps rearing its ugly head: the relative merits of developing a set of norms around MS. Many posts evidence conflicting views on the subject, but they have little opportunity of being resolved online when there seems to be a lot of implicit judgement and assumption and 2) where the details of subject are obscured. As people share the whens and hows of MS, I bet a structured conversation about the relative merit of an in-person conference vs online information sharing would be very productive.

  730. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is to make certain that they have adequate staff available to accommodate the needs of the large number of conference attendees — at restaurants, check-in, check-out, airport shuttle, etc.

  731. I want to learn more about ways to hack into elite status with hotels and airlines and Oneworld info.
    The hotel should know that they are playing with fire as they may get reviews from many folks attending.

  732. I wish conference hotels would open hotel amenities to all conference goers not just the ones staying at the hotel.

  734. What I most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers is the joy they feel when they get a lot of miles.

  735. Coffee. The hotel should make sure coffee service is continuous all day. Nothing worse than getting out of a long and tiring afternoon session to find you’re in a gap between the lunch and snack services, and no caffeine is nearby.

  736. I would love to network with people to see how best to manage what loyalty programs that I already have and what would be best to complement them as I have retired and my spending needs to be maximized.

  738. Hotel: for the older folks, sufficient lighting in rooms, public spaces, and conference hall

  740. Conference: getting beyond collecting/using United points exclusively. Also, figuring out shopping portals

  741. In a gathering of frequent flyers, I want to learn if they remember their first flight on an airplane.

  744. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    FREE WIFI FOREVER AND EVER AND ALWAYS.

  745. I’d like to hear about time management practices for the hobbyist in this game. Where to focus, how time to spend, etc. It seems like I spend endless time reading up on everything and changes and with a family and work, I have a hard time being able to implement much.

  746. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    How best to stretch miles. I’m not so interested in elite status or flying first class, I just want tips and tricks for getting the most number of flights out of a certain number of miles.

  750. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?
    Meet MSrs and learn from them

  751. Top of my list to learn more about are manufactured spending techniques and booking partner airlines for award travel.

  755. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    How to maximize free stop-overs on award travel

  756. I would love to learn the ins and outs of miles redemption like partner airlines and alliances. Also, all the ways of MS in order to do miles redemption.

  757. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Offer free wifi everywhere

  762. What do I want from FTU? Knowledge about how those involved in “the hobby” can all help each other. I have attended 1 FTU before, and I loved the sense of community and willingness to share tips among bloggers and attendees alike. I am attending FTU advanced and my husband is attending FTU. We’re hoping that the organizers will focus on fostering community and knowledge sharing.

  764. Everyday I send an inordinate amount of time deleting Junk emails but I ALWAYS read yours! I find them informative and enjoyable.
    I’m new to the “Miles & Points” game, but your emails keep me up to speed. Thanks for your hard work in learning and sharing this valuable information.

  769. What I’d most want to learn is how to make the leap to being a nearly full-time traveler like most of the major bloggers.

  772. Best tip would be how best to combine points from different programs in one trip, specifically a cruise since cruise lines not typically members off SNY alliance

  773. “What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?”

    Advice from others about what airline program to choose when my company-required choices are Delta or American.

    I’ve been Delta Platinum for several years (made Diamond once by the skin of my teeth). I’m thinking about leaving Delta for American because of how they have butchered the SkyMiles program and how hostile the relationships between Air France, Korean Air, and Delta have become, but am not convinced I will be better off at American because the tier thresholds there are higher.

  774. A conference host hotel should have coffee setup round the clock, and have ample WiFi hotspots.

  776. “What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?”

    A conference hotel desk employee should have all of the information about the conference, every important thing about registration, meeting rooms, schedules, etc. The response of the hotel employees should never be “You have to go hunt down the conference information desk” for basic and important information.

  779. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Sometimes guests NOT associated with the conference may be staying at the hotel. My silly “precious metal” elite status shouldn’t always be trumped by drunk conventioneers. It would be nice to be given noticed of a convention before arrival and then given the option to go somewhere else, especially if it is a convention group is essentially politically or morally reprehensible to me as the traveler not affiliated with the conference. Example: someone who is a victim of gun violence should know that there is a NRA event at the hotel before check-in and visa versa- a pro gun person may not want to be present during a Handgun Control Inc conference.

  780. A conference host hotel should strive for excellence in “comfort breaks” ! That experience at LAX was not cool!

  786. And what the hotel should know, as Mark said above, is that we’d like to have access to good, fast Wifi.

  795. I’d most like to learn what methods veterans of this hobby use to easily remember and identify which cards in their wallet are the best choice for each category spend. Do you put stickers on the cards, mark them in different ways?

  796. Fast and free/included in the rate wi-fi for all devices should be standard for a conference hotel.

    Thank you!

  797. Most important thing for a conference host hotel is to know the theme and schedule of that conference, so you can possibly adapt your checkout time policy to be more convenient for conference attendees, or to adapt your breakfast hours or room service hours to better suit the needs of guests.

  798. More than anything I want to learn how to be more efficient with Manufactered Spending other than just credit card sign ups.

  803. I would most want to learn how to find business class awards (with decent availability) to Europe at low points /fuel surcharges. Asia is easy but I strike out with Europe.

  804. The most important thing the a hotel which is hosting a conference to know is their audience and what types of items would be most helpful, i.e. casual meeting areas, strengthened wifi and plan accordingly.

  807. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    I’d want to learn some of the tricks that aren’t posted publicly due to the abuse if they were.

  809. I’d enjoy learning the best way to liquidate visa gift cards with a pin number besides Money Orders? Thanks for your great blog!

  810. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    They’re being visited by a bunch of people who are very concerned about loyalty programs and brands. They need to do their best to make sure everything is perfect or it will quickly turn into terrible PR. Much worse than normal due to any small issue being magnified because of the nature of the attendees.

  812. I would like to learn the easiest way to search for Ultimate Reward partner flights in order to get the most value out of my points

  814. I love it when there is a quiet cafe or lounge with plenty of electrical outlets to get some work done (I’m usually attending academic conferences so lots of last minute writing to be done).

  815. The most helpful thing for a host hotel to do is make sure each guest stays happy during their stay. It may even make sense to offer a small sum of bonus points to guests making it there to attend. Always attempt to over deliver when you are hosting points gurus and miles aficionados.

  816. Host hotels should have free access to wifi, especially in the meeting areas and ensure there are enough outlets for the conference attendees to plug in and stay connected.

  817. I try to avoid hotels that charge for wifi. Loud air conditioners/heating systems are annoying.

  818. At a gathering of frequent flyers, I would be most interested in learning what the “next big thing” is in terms of miles and points.

  819. I’m too lazy to work the system with all the credit cards. I would just like to figure out the best and least expensive way to get from here to there. Example: sometimes it’s cheaper to fly DTW-FLL and return PBI-DTW that to fly direct in and out of the same airport. That’s one route I’m familiar with, but hard to figure out on unfamiliar trips.

  820. I will be there and would love to learn more how to maximize my miles when booking award tickets on international flights.

    As for Hyatt, I love their product and I feel the best thing they could do is meet with their elites (especially at a gathering like this where so many will be in attendance) and understand their needs in order to keep their awards program top notch.

  821. Just stayed at the Hyatt in Bangkok with my hubby.

    So much has changed since I was last here 8 years ago, so much development so many scale shops for tourist who aren’ here, kind of sad…anyway love your blog. Fingers crossed.

  822. The most important thing for a host hotel to do is to plan for having 10 times the number of elite members they are used to having on a given weekend.

  824. I would want to know from other frequent fliers how long they have been participating in the points/miles world and how much doing so has benefitted them over the long haul.

  826. I’d like to learn more about searching for international award seats with unconventional routing or distance based points (I.e. Avios).

  837. I would want to learn more about how to spend the gift cards I buy with my Ink Bold at Office Depot.

  838. The hotel should be giving free breakfast and/or double points/miles to anyone attending a conference related to earning miles.

  842. I am looking for advice on how non frequent flyers can rack up points/miles. Also would like to know about best dates to redeem awards in general.

  845. I want to learn about points currencies and the best way to spend them! Thanks! VFtW forever!

  848. I’d most want to learn about the benefits of hotel status, which programs are the most rewarding, and be able to ask everyone “what is it that I’m not asking about hotel reward programs that you think I should know? What’s my blindspot?” I’ve been reading your blog regularly but have focused on airline miles until now, so it would be a great chance to branch out. Thanks!

  850. The most important thing for a host hotel to know would be my preferences, like what amenities I like best, whether to leave a gift in my room or award me extra miles… and do it! Personalization is everything.

  851. I would like to learn at least one of the “tricks” that so many are hush-hush about (but I’m small fries compared to others)

  852. Will there be FREE + FAST WIFI throughout the hotel?

    {What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?}

  853. I’d like to learn the time saving tips. Sometimes there are some simple ones that a lot of people don’t know.

  854. The most important thing that a hotel should know is to ensure that their Internet is working and is speedy.

  855. When will it all end LOL

    What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

  856. The most important thing I would say is to understand the guest. If they look tired or rushed make it quick when u check them in.

  857. best thing to learn – how to stay on top of the best hotel promo on any given date. When traveling 200+ nights a year, you definitely want/need to be able to max out the points. Just my two cents.

  863. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is to ensure that there is enough staff available so that service does not suffer.

  867. For question #2, ensure their heating/ air conditioning and ventilation systems are in top quiet operating condition. I run into more issues with this than anything else when traveling.

  868. Conference hotels should know that the audio visual infrastructure and sight lines should be high quality and bullet proof. It’s disappointing to spend time and money to attend and then be unable to see and hear.

  870. Most important thing host hotel to do: NOT FORCE YOU TO USE THEIR EXPENSIVE WIFI – listening Marriott?

  871. I would love a better understanding of the revenue structure of frequent flier programs. It is to my advantage to understand how these programs generate revenue for the airlines.

  872. The most important thing at any hotel for me, as a female usually travelling alone, is safety and security. The more safe I feel, whether inside the hotel or in the parking area, makes the experience so much better.

  873. I would most like to learn methods of organizing miles and points. Examples and templates are very welcome.

  874. I most want to learn about ‘non-airline’ award redemptions. Best hotels, hotels by region, etc.

  876. The most important thing for a host hotel to know is that there will always be a good handful of DYKWIA folks attending, so patience is a must. 😉

  877. Hotels should be prepared with clean common areas/bathrooms, and the little amenties that make the most difference at conferences (bottled water, note pads, pens, and wi-fi access.)

  881. I always need help with redemption ideas and strategies. I have no problem earing volumes of points.

    Conference hotel needs decent a decent audio/video system for these presentations

  882. I would love to learn more about redeeming “standard” miles (AA, United) on more exotic partner airlines (Singapore, Emirates, etc.).

  886. I would love to learn more about maximizing points and miles for people in school/working part-time.

  889. Strong, free wifi from conference hotel as well as complimentary breakfast or at least lots of coffee and tea.

  891. To answer the question “What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?” I would want to know more alternatives to credit card point collecting and if anyone has gone that route… how successful they’ve been, where to begin…etc. All the research I’ve done has been limited.

  896. I would love to lean more ways to earn hotel stays that are not based on manufacturing spending.

  897. The hotel should have suggestions to keep other members of the family busy while a weekend conference is in session.

  900. First, what would I like to know at a gathering of FFs? Definitely whether the points-trading services like Points.com are worth the time and energy to use them, because I would love to unload my Frontier miles!

  901. A link to a site where you tell it where your staying or spending and gives you the best options. Like EV Rewards but for hotel stays.

  902. The most important thing for a conference host to do is smile and captivate the audience with his/her personality.

  903. the most important thing a conference hotel should have is a flexible and responsive catering team that can manage and support the conference itself as well as any meetings taking place in parallel to the conference programming

  905. Second, what’s the most important thing conference host hotels should do? Obviously, it’s to make sure they have close and frequent communication with the conference organizers to make sure ALL attendees have clean, comfortable rooms that match their preferences and to quickly accommodate those who run into snags. But from a selfish standpoint, I echo another commenter’s thought that the hotel should recognize its program loyalists.

  906. Hotels need to make sure their elevators are working! I’ve stayed at a hotel hosting a conference I was at, and the 40-story hotel’s elevators weren’t working for a few days. This made for a 20 minute commute down the stairs in heels every day. Not fun.

  908. I would want to learn the best strategies for maximizing transferable points, rather than focusing solely on single-brand cards.

  909. I would MOST want to learn what to do after I’ve already gotten all of the good credit cards. But most of all, I look forward to visiting with the attendees, making new friends and hearing personal stories from them regarding this hobby.

  910. I would most want to learn the best way to earn and use frequent flyer points/miles when we don’t travel for business. Seems that most of our friends with a lot of miles don’t pay for their own travel, but we do.

  911. I would like to learn more about finding and booking more than 1 person using SWU on international flights in both directions.

  912. The conference host hotel should be aware of the internet requirements of the conference, and be able to provide adequate coverage for all guests that need it.

  913. A host hotel should offer a steep discount for the stay and also provide a lot of information about things to do in the area.

  916. I’d want to know how to maximize award redemptions. I never feel I’m getting as much value as I could.

  917. Host hotels shouldn’t block wireless signals and then charge $1000 for booth wifi (this happened to me while presenting at the convention center in Sacramento)

  918. I would like to learn more about ways to earn more miles now that my business travel has backed off.

  924. I’d like to learn more about the best value redemptions for Business or First Class international awards, with tips and tricks on how to have the best success in booking them.

  925. I think I’d like to learn the best options (other than flying) to earn miles. I always feel as if I’m missing possibilities.

  926. A hotel that is hosting conferences needs high-speed internet that can handle heavy demand during break periods!

  928. The things I am most interested in learning are 1) the use of avios for positioning and 2) how to use my hotel points more efficiently. Thanks.

  930. The host hotel should make sure it is quick and easy to buy food in between sessions and on-property restaurants are prepared to welcome guests.

  931. How to get access to the best information about hotels with club floors including Hyatt and Hilton.

  940. Sorry didn’t finish comment. I think Hyatt and all hotel chains should realize wifi needs be free nowadays.

  943. Didn’t finish comment. It is all about maximizing opportunities to earn and burn points for hotels.

  944. Id most like to know about the best ways to find reward flights without having a specific date in mind.

  945. I’d like to know “secret” airports that allow you to fly using few miles to different places around the world a la LifeMiles to Guam.

  951. How to get more strategic about redemption. I’ve made some really poor redemption choices while I’m learning.

  952. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? Provide assistance to all individuals who are o wheelchairs. Must know how many will be attending so a specific area can be reserved for them.

  961. I’d like to learn more about leveraging a variety of programs rather than focusing earning in one.

  962. ◾What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    The best manufactured spending methods.

  963. ◾What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?
    Be friendly and flexible with check-in and check-out times.

  967. The squeeze of ever higher mileage requirements for biz travel and above,combined with higher thresholds of required spend is increasingly a vise for the hobbyist. Personally,I think finding ways to post spend is the core problem, trumping all else.

  970. our family of 4 has traveled to Europe twice in the last 3 years on very little money…all points…using your tips!!

  972. A hotel needs to know how to have meals during the conference easily accessible so its guests don’t waste time or miss part of the conference!

  975. Love Hyatt especially the Andaz brand! Hyatt truly does have the best bang for your buck high end award redemption’s options!

  981. I would love to know the best way to spend the miles earned at a gathering of frequent flyers. 🙂 Thanks guys

  983. The host hotel should offer a complimentary happy hour with a set number of drinks per person. It shows the guest that they are appreciated and it also encourages guest to be social with one another.

  984. I would love to know much more about fuel dumping. I think it’s one thing to try and research it online, another thing to learn about it in person. =)

  986. I’d like to learn about finding award availability – when it’s available, what to do when it’s not

  991. I think a host hotel needs to know what elites from other competive markets are staying at the hotel and to find out how best to reach out to them. This may be a rare opportunity to do this.

  993. The best thing I would want to learn is to get tips and tricks on how to find great award seats.

  994. Hotels can offer free shuttle transportation to and from the airport for conference attendees.

  995. At a conference of frequent flyers, I would most like to know how to maximize value between plans and what to do when you have the opportunities to combine offers or points from different sources for maximimum value.

  998. I think hosting hotels should offer some sort of treat or surprise for their guests to get them to consider returning for non-event stays.

  1000. Every conference at a hotel needs really good coffee refreshed all day. I’m not sure I’ve ever been impressed by coffee from a decorative urn.

  1007. I am sorry I will not be able to attend again. I book my trips for the whole year and then miss out. Maybe next year. But I would expect all high end hotels to include all inclusive room rates, parking, internet, gym access, breakfast, tea/happy hour. That would make it easier for all travelers.

  1008. I want to learn how to use the different credit cards to stay at luxury hotels plus more on manufactured spending!!!

  1009. I would most like to learn about a current perpetual miles or points machine that has not been discussed on any blog or forum (if that exists).

  1010. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is to handle any mishaps quickly and with class.

  1013. I know how to earn miles, but I would love more concrete tips on how to maximize my redemptions.

  1016. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?
    DO NOT BLOCK OTHER’S WIFI or MOBILE ISP LIKE MARRIOTT, instead PROVIDE FREE WIFI! 🙂

  1021. I’d like to learn more about how to best use hotel points for both luxury and budget stays.

  1022. The most important thing a hotel can do during a conference would be to have: Good sound, functional (complimentary) internet access, clean rooms, and food delivered for lunch ON TIME (unlike Marriott Seatac during the last FTU)

  1023. The most important thing a hotel can do during a conference would be to have: Good sound, functional (complimentary) internet access, clean rooms, and food delivered for lunch ON TIME (unlike Marriott Seatac during the last FTU)

  1025. What I would most want to learn from a gathering of frequent flyers is the best strategy for finding routes that will earn the most milage.

  1026. I would most like to know how to most efficiently search for award seats when planning award trips.

  1027. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? Know that every person attending the conference is looking for you to EARN their loyalty through excellent benefits and customer service.

  1032. Host Hotels should make sure there is good quality, free WIFI so everyone can easily log on to or follow suggested links

  1036. Hotel WIFI access for multiple devices. Just returned from the WD Swan and they offer Platinums access for up to 10 devices!!

  1037. I think the most vital thing for a host hotel to do is to provide good signage so everyone knows where to go, as well as cold water and plenty of pens and paper for notetaking. Breath mints are a nice touch, too!

  1038. Best frequent flyers programs and changes that are in store in the future for these programs.

  1041. More tips on the best usage and ways to redeem all those points you’ve earned especially for specific airline or hotel programs.

  1042. I would most like to learn more about how to access information about the availability of “partner” airlines, especially those that are foreign-based.

  1043. The best thing that a hotel can provide conference-goers is definitely free WiFi, both in the conference area and in the individual’s room.

  1044. I think the best at FT events is being able to interact with the presenters and being able to learn a new point of view on how this hobby can be truly rewarding beyond all techniques and tips

  1045. A conference hotel should know when most conference guests will be checking in/out and have plenty of front desk staff on hand at those times.

  1047. At a gathering of freq flyers, I would want to learn some inside information; what is on the horizon for the travel industry and FF programs and how to position oneself accordingly.

  1048. Simpler way of looking for award flights and availability across all rewards programs instead of having to go to each one separately and search on each website.

  1054. I would like in depth sessions on the workings (or not) of the major frequent flyer programs.

  1055. The host hotel needs to be prepared for an onslaught on the club facilities. It should back up the club with restaurant access for breakfast

  1056. Hotels need to have good working wifi that can handle hosting a large event where everyone uses wifi.

  1058. Hotel should be welcoming and make sure their WiFi is able to accommodate all their guests with a fast speed.

  1061. I’d like to learn more about frequent flyer programs to maximize my United and Hawaiian Miles, my SPG points and SVO options.

  1062. A host hotel should make an effort to enamour us to what they in particular have to offer frequent travelers.

  1063. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?
    Which airline they fly the most and why? do they go out of their way to always fly that airline to keep/maintain status?

  1064. I would love to know how to employ so many of the great tips here in Australia.
    Sadly it is a whole different ball game here!

  1065. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?
    Provide free coffee!

  1066. I think the conference hotel should be acutely aware of what the attending patrons will pay particular attention to – in this case probably elite benefits being recognised and points for all spending posting!

  1070. the most important thing for a conference host hotel to do would be to provide wifi and make sure it doesn’t overload and there is enough bandwidth for everyone.

  1071. I would want to most learn the best travel redemption tips from my home base Boston.
    Thanks for the giveaway!

  1072. A session on award travel for larg(er) families. We are a family of six travelling to Sourh Africa in July 2015 in F, thanks to points. It can be done!

  1074. A host hotel should know that there will be a surge of people checking in on day 1 and out on the final day and provide relevant staff in adequate quantities.

  1077. At a gathering of frequent flyers, I would be interested in learning strategies for earning miles/points beyond the typical methods.

  1078. I think the important thing for a conference host to know is the makeup of the conference attendees (i.e. who do they hope to gain from attending) and then aligning the agenda accordingly.

  1079. The host hotel should know when to expect the bulk of the attendees to avoid long check-in lines

  1080. A. How do I get the most points? and

    B. Hotels should offer fresh fruit. like bananas and apples

  1081. I would like to know more about using the KVS tool as I don’t get to use it often enough to remember the tool that well.

  1082. I’d want to learn the ins and outs of booking multi-city/multi-segment flights in order to optimize points.

  1088. I would like to learn how to find awrd space and how to book three or four tickets at the same time, on the same flight, but using more than one person’s points (e.g. Mine and my husband’s point to book flight for us and the kids)

  1090. I’d like to know how to maximize the miles I have to get the most from my redemptions. When does it make sense to purchase a ticket instead of using precious miles? I’m fairly new to the game and have a lot to learn!

  1091. Conference hotels need to provide sufficient seating and signage for the event. They also need a top-notch audio visual team on site who can help out when things go on the fritz (as they always do). In guest rooms: sufficient outlets for charging laptops, tablets, phones, etc, and great common spaces where conference attendees can mix and mingle.

  1092. This gift card will help me during my Amsterdam trip which i will be taking next month.

  1098. i would most want to learn about the best way to book awards for two (either me + 1 or to send my parents on a trip)

  1099. the most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is to capacity plan…everything from space to wifi to food and drink

  1103. I’d love to learn about the most current strategies that discusses flexibility in earning miles/points by transferring points, etc.

  1107. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    In each airline alliance (frequent flyer program) which airline is “the best” to credit the miles to – like for Star Alliance it used to be Aegean.

  1108. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Provide free wifi.

  1109. At a gathering of frequent fliers, I’d like to discover the latest mileage-earning scheme (e.g. travelers checks, coins, VRC, AP).

  1110. The most important thing for a conference hotel to have is excellent communication — e.g. how to access wi-fi, where is breakfast, are meals buffet-style or served, extra staff responding to email requests for upgrades in advance, publicizing transportation options/rates to off-site events/attractions, frequent guests do not want a noisy room next to the elevator/freeway, etc.

  1111. I’d like to learn one or two secret tricks of the trade as massive points-earning opportunities seem to be drying up (other than credit card apps).

  1112. Conference hotels should have adequate staff to handle a barrage of special requests where every guest is made to feel valued and special while the hotel operates efficiently.

  1115. I would most want to learn tricks of the trade from some very frequent fliers, such as how to maximize your use of miles. Thanks for the giveaway!

  1116. I think the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know is that they should keep everything in the background working smoothly (keep coffee and water available, for example) so that attendees and presenters can focus on the conference.

  1117. The most important knowledge to share is how to redeem premium cabin international travel. It’s still the best deal out there, even if it takes more work.

  1118. would love to learn fuel dumping in special confidential closed door sessions at flyer conference. That would make me attend.

  1124. Host hotels should make sure that their elites can be catered to, and make arrangements appropriate to the number of elites who will be attending the conference. The more perks, the better!

  1131. I think the host hotel will want ot know they have a hotel full of people who want the best and are not afraid to ask for it.

  1134. Conference hotels need to learn to brew a great cup of coffee, and to have it available throughout the day

  1139. For me, I’m most interested in which airline had the most consistent service. It means very little to redeem an award trip and have it ruined by poor service.

  1141. For me, a host hotel needs to know the schedule of events and be properly staffed during what may be off peak hours. I’ve been to hotels and everyone is getting a late breakfast/early lunch and there are 2 people at the restaurant

  1148. I would love to hear more about manufactured spend. It’s an area I don’t know enough about as it is.

  1150. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    I would love to know /learn obscure deals that I may not otherwise know about (even though I am an active ft reader).

  1151. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to do? Please provide free wifi

  1152. I would want to learn how to best use miles to secure international upgrades on United or Star Alliance

  1153. I’d like to learn about trends in Credit Card Rewards. And even hear from people from the credit card companies.

  1155. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is honor loyalty program benefits even when part of a group booking.

  1161. I would like to learn more about using existing miles/points for flights and nights from a non-elite (or low tier elite) viewpoint, especially for family travel.

  1163. I want to learn about finding and booking complex international flights, such as stopovers, open jaws, etc.

  1169. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? I would say free bottled water and wi-fi.

  1172. The most important thing a hotel or host can do is provide free wifi during the meeting.

  1175. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? New ways to earn elite status- hotels and airlines.

  1176. A host hotel should make sure that the meeting rooms are plenty cool and not stuffy. A cooler room keeps everyone more alert!

  1177. I would most want to know about which currencies I should look to bank miles and which I should be using to redeem awards.

  1181. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? free bottled water and wi-fi.

  1183. I’d love to know if there’s a standard recommendation (& methodology) on how to evaluate redemption options within travel categories – air, hotel, rental cars. I’m often hesitant to use miles/points because I don’t know what my miles/points are really potentially worth.

  1184. What I would most like to learn would be ways to become more efficient with my time in both earning and especially using my miles. Things like best search tools and ways to automate. Finding resources where I could learn how award availability was in the past and where it might be in the near future would save me tons of time.

  1187. I would want to hear case reports of ff account flags/review/etc. vague references are fine for beginners, but if i’m paying for a conference, i want to see some firm numbers. Use your networking resources.

  1193. Host hotels should know that those who attend the meeting are those who are likely to be particular about travel. Great if they are impressed and can spread the word. Not so great if they are not taken care of.

  1195. A conference host has to have easily-accessed and good quality wifi. It may seem like a simple request, but I’ve been disappointed at many conferences.

  1198. I would like to learn about maximizing regular flight bookings. Mileage runs are great if you have the time/availability, but for the rest of us who cannot execute a MR, how can we still get the best bang for our buck and earn some miles? Secondly, award booking for all the airlines.

  1199. I would like to learn how best to utilize the airline reimbursement credit that some cards offer.

  1202. The host cannot talk to everyone individually or meet everyone’s need, but he/she can ensure everyone walks away with something based on a key theme and possibly have a knowledge center that is login only to recap the information shared.

  1205. 1. best methods of booking award trips.
    2. host hotel – be ready for the greatest number of high status guests conceivable with proper staffing and amenities.

  1208. Most important for host hotel is to have enough staff to efficiently handle needs of attendees.

  1209. How to avoid allowing my stash of Lufthansa miles accumulated from credit card signups to expire.

  1210. The host hotel should have free wifi , refreshments, and signs all over the hotel for directions .

  1215. Would just like to find out more of best practices and actually horror stories, as mistakes can be the best lesson in our game.

  1217. Most important would be to still keep guests in mind, whether part of or not involved with the conference, as I can’t think of the number of times as a non-conference attending guest I’ve been pushed aside and brushed off. Definitely eliminates a property from my choice when I go to book again, or to book a conference myself.

  1222. A host hotel should make sure that each attendee is made to feel extremely welcome from the second they walk through the door.

  1226. I would most like to learn more about award chart sweetspots and creative routings to maximize my miles

  1228. There’s an information overload with keeping track of points/miles. I refresh feed and forum every few hours, and it’s become like an addiction. I would love to learn of the different ways advance users are keeping track of all the information in an efficient way.

  1233. A conference hotel should have a reliable wifi, great efficient ventilation and good acustic environment.

  1234. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?
    I feel like I do a decent job of following your advice to get a ton of miles. But I feel overwhelmed on how to actually get the most out of them. So more tips that could help me get started on cashing in rewards vs. super advanced tips for people who are already awards savvy.

  1236. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?
    Have a charging station or lounge for attendees to charge their electronics. If music festivals can do it, why can’t every business conference?

  1237. I’d like to hear the speakers discuss some of the best award redemption values within each hotel brand’s portfolio.

  1238. Looking forward to my first FTU at the beautiful Hyatt. To me the 3 top items on my hotel conference stay are: parking, free wifi & good food!

  1239. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? – How to sustain the Miles earning after the CC Bonus dries up

  1240. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Providing a customized welcome kit or curated offers based on the participants

  1242. A host hotel should prep their staff members, letting them know that this is a gathering of some of their most loyal customers.

  1244. I would like to learn the best way to maximize points in cities that don’t have your hotel chain of choice (use airline miles,get new credit,etc)?

  1246. I want to know how to get 5 people to Venice in business class using American miles and without paying fuel surcharges.

  1247. Host hotels should let guests know ahead of time if there will be a wait for available rooms.

  1250. For the conference hotel to know/do? They should know attendees need free WiFi and they should provide it.

  1254. The host hotel should ensure that wifi in the conference rooms is available for free to attendees, that it’s easy to log on, that it works (and that any problems are promptly fixed), and is reasonably fast.

  1255. I would like to learn about which awards provide the most bang for your points within a given loyalty program.

  1256. Most important thing for a host hotel is to provide adequate space, both for the seminars themselves as well as the networking that goes on outside of the formal events.

  1258. The most important thing for a host hotel is to never run out of bottled water during the presentations/meetings.

  1259. I’d like to learn more about the smaller hotel chain loyalty programs (e.g. Fairmont hotels)

  1260. Most important thing for a host hotel is to have decent wifi and make it free to elite members.

  1263. Host hotel should have wifi packages that include access in both public areas and conference areas.

  1265. I’d like to learn more about rental cars. Getting the best deal on them is a mystery to me.

  1266. Free wi-fi is the most important thing for hotels to offer at any conference – in room and public areas

  1267. I would love to understand better the free stopover rules included with some award redemption programs

  1273. I’d love some free travel! Which annual fee cards are worth keeping and “easy” ways to increase spend!

  1274. I would like to know the optimal way I could use a particular airline’s miles to fly on other airlines which belong to the same alliance (ex. oneworld, skyteam ect.)

  1276. A comprehensive lecture on the sweet spots of award programs…when to use what type of miles to fly to a certain destination. With as thorough a destination list as possible.

  1278. Hotels need to make sure there are enough outlets and enough wifi bandwith for conference attendees.

  1281. I would love to learn from the pros the most efficient way to use my points to fly across the globe. There is just so many exciting places I have yet to visit!

  1282. I’ve got the process of earning points down, although I need to be better at things like when is the best time to cancel cards and how to better time my signup so that I get the best sign up bonuses possible (signed up for the ink plus just a few weeks before the 70,000 offer).

    But really, I need to learn from this conference how to be the wisest spender of points, making sure I’m getting the most bang for each mile.

  1283. A conference host hotel must know that the people staying there are elite travelers, and as such they expect high standards of service and amenities.

  1284. Hotels can be better hosts by providing signs! signs! and some more signs that include maps. If this is going to be the biggest FTU ever, I imagine there will be a lot of rooms associated with it, and I want to easily get from one place to another. Also provide something besides coffee.. I don’t drnik coffee and I’d also like something to drink in the morning, even if its just water. maybe…orange juice? 🙂

  1286. I would like to learn how people find out about ultra cheap fares that have a tendency to disappear very quickly.

  1287. The most important thing for a hotel to have at a conference of frequent flyers is a good bar where you can find things out from the experts that won’t get mentioned in sessions.

  1288. booking awards is lot more difficult than earning miles/pts, I’d like to learn more about award booking tools like kvs & nexus.

  1290. I think the most important thing a conference hotel can do is to have spaces that invite mingling adjacent to the meeting rooms. So many conferences either end up being too sterile to gather between sessions or everyone clumps up in the hallways making it difficult to move and loud.

  1292. What I would most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers is how to know when the websites may not be showing the correct availability for rewards. I know I have come across postings of, “airline A’s website does not show something correctly, so cross reference with another website, or call the helpdesk”. I can never remember all of these nuggets and it would be useful to consolidate this knowledge.

  1293. Hotels need to realize that this group is the type clientele/future clientele that they want to attract to their brand. The property then should utilize their staff to show off the value of that brand during the conference.

  1294. Most important thing for a conference hotel to have is consistent performing wi-fi available to all attendees.

  1295. I’d most like to learn from frequent flyers to what lengths they would go to earn points…

  1297. The host hotel should be prepared to handle a surge of checkins to limit the wait time of guests.

  1298. At a frequent flyer conference I would like to learn how to more easily find flights on partner airlines for which I can use points from a different airline.

  1299. Convention host hotels need to provide wifi throughout the hotel. And if they’re building a new hotel they should think about wider hallways near meeting rooms!

  1300. There are many varieties of “Frequent Flyers” attending: e.g. starting off; business travelers; domestic travelers; those wanting to begin international travel; etc. You might want to consider a breakout session where people of various subsets could gather and build relationships. Consider gather these interest levels during the registration process

  1304. How about offering a live feed of the conference? A modest fee to access it would be great for those who can’t attend in person.

  1305. I would most want to learn on how to maximize my time in searching for saver award F/J tickets. What airlines release space early, close to departure, the best tools and time for searching.

  1306. The most important thing for me is to have clearly marked signs and information for conference attendees.

  1307. The conference host hotel has to have a fast and solid wifi network available to attendees. I have been to conferences where this is not the case and it is invariably a major headache for all.

  1308. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    Mileage runs are dying, but there’s still some value left in them. What route(s) are the best bang for your buck?

  1309. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Know its attendees, and embrace that. Too often I’ve been to conferences where the hotel staff is a little confused by the group, and in turn gets annoyed by things that are just by nature of a conference things that happen.

  1310. I would like to learn some of the tricks regarding award booking that aren’t readily available on FT and other sites.

  1314. I’d enjoy a session about using points to get to unusual places that are not frequently highlighted in most blogs.

  1315. Manufactured spending techniques. If possible, more specifically, how does it affect people that hold foreign status (student/work visa).

  1318. What I’d like to learn most…. sweet spots in the big airline’s programs! Everyone would love to know how to stretch our miles.

  1319. convention host should make sure standard wifi (whether free or not) is stable and not blocking people’s own wifi from working so they can kill the convention with enormous wifi charges, like the despicable Mar-riot.

  1324. Most important thing for conference host to know: coffee service throughout day, not just at breakfast, please.

  1327. What I’d most like to learn: how to maximize hotel award redemptions including best rate guarantees and mattress runs.

  1328. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    Any obscure services I might not be aware of.

  1332. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    Making special accommodations specific for the group which is there.

  1337. I would want to learn which airline to transfer Chase UR or Amex points for the least amount of points in first class to Japan for 2 people

  1339. Answer for #1: I want to learn about latest and greatest MS techniques and best ways to redeem miles.

  1341. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do: accommodate early check in & late check out requests from attendants.

  1344. As a frequent flyer I would like to learn about award booking tips and tricks within the major alliances.

  1348. Q2: I would encourage the hotel to increase staffing levels, pointers in and around meeting rooms, dedicated check in for elite members and F&B should keep buffets clean and stocked.

  1349. At a gathering of frequent flyers, I would like to learn how to best optimize the mileage runs and status earnings for a specific airline.

  1350. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do is to offer unique spa/golf/onsite events outside the attended conference.

  1352. I’d like to know what some of the sweet spots are on some of the unconventional award charts. (i.e. Asian/European/Middle Eastern airlines.

  1354. I would like to learn more on how to maximize redeeming award on international flights at a gathering of frequent flyers. Thanks.

  1355. I love the “special value” highlights – e.g. adding a free domestic segment (after stopover) to an int’l award or using Avios for short-haul US/SAA.

  1357. I want a conference host hotel to know that the group’s representative wants to know about issues in the group. e.g. if you’re oversold, let the group rep know before you walk randoms from the group.

  1359. I’d want to learn more about canceling award travel booked on foreign airlines with the least amoont of fee’s and surgcharges

  1360. I would like to know what the pro bloggers are doing to earn massive points at a discount since the demise of vanilla cards

  1363. Most important thing for a conference hotel to know is that we don’t want to be forced to use your wireless network. Many of us know more about security than you do.

  1364. I would want to learn the newest ways to manufacture spend easily and safely to get more miles/points!

  1366. The most important thing for a conference hotel to know is what elite benefits should be given and to honor them even when/if the hotel is full (or oversold).

  1367. Would love to learn the tips and tricks to get the best out of hard earned miles and points. That is the lesson I would like to have.

  1369. A conference hotel needs to have a point person with a cell number for the conference organizers to be able to get ahold of the right person when they need something!

  1373. i would like to learn more ins and outs of award booking business/first class aspirational flights!

  1379. Conference hotels should make sure that conference-goer WiFi has the backhaul scaled to the capacity of the audience. If it’s a conference room of 5,000 people, make sure the backhaul can support that and you have enough routers.

  1380. What I’d most likely want to know at gather of FF fliers: how is it that fuel dumping still works after all these years? What can I do today to dump fuel?

  1383. A good hotel host should provide free coffee in the lobby for guests and a clean well stocked bar.

  1390. A conference hotel should have fast, free wifi (whoops I guess this entry won’t win since the DC Hyatt apparently does NOT have wifi in its conference area.

  1395. I’d like to find out how to be more in the know for mistake fares and other “Secret” things.

  1397. What to learn …. I am a noob so looking for tips to step up to the next level, and hoping to have a clearer understanding of where to draw the line between taking advantage of a good opportunity and violating the rules.

  1399. I simply want to learn the actual strategies for putting together that once in a lifetime trip to a fascinating destination.

  1400. It’s important for a conference hotel to let the front desk staff know the conference is going on. It’s pretty disheartening for a board member to check into a host hotel for a 7 days stay for a conference with 7,000 attendees and have the front desk not even know what the conference was!

  1401. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?

    Is there a way where I can earn millions of miles without doing anything and not spending more than $124?

  1409. I would most like to learn about the merger between american and us airways and how to benefit from it in the future

  1412. I would have to echo the wifi request for conference organizers. Though giving some large chunks of free time to explore the location is always nice.

  1417. Host hotel should know that a crew of miles and points-crazed fanatics (like me) will be invading their space and running up big bar tabs

  1418. Thing I would most like to learn is what excuse I can make to my SO to disappear for a few days for one of these without her thinking I am a total freak

  1419. Give them hours of stories of the DYKWIA variety, so they will be embarrassed to take their newfound knowledge and flaunt it. Noblesse Oblige.

  1421. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?
    Ensure their wifi is strong enough to handle all the guests!

  1422. 0.000000000000000000000001% is better than 0% of winning?

    The host hotel SHOULD try to make every possible way to leave a VERY positive impression on a large group of guest, especially those who go on giving away free advertisement via blogs, facebook posting, twitter, and what have you.

  1423. i would like to know specifically how to know about promotions ahead of the curve, ways for this seem to differ from company to company. Also, an in depth reminder of the sweet spots for certain hotels/airlines too.

  1425. “What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers?”

    I would most want to learn about different ways of “spending without spending” meaning using bluebird, gift cards, etc.

  1426. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do?

    They must know to treat everyone with respect and with a smile. Yes it’s hard when they’re standing on their feet all day (night shifts etc.) but walking into a hotel and being greeted with a smile makes the patron feel welcome and “at home”

  1427. What I’d love to learn from frequent travelers… how do you consistently generate high quantities of miles/points at around or less than a penny apiece?

    The options I’ve been using seem to keep getting pricier and pushing up my cost per mile/point.

  1428. The most important thing for a conference hotel to do is to stress-test the conference WiFi. Too many conferences are plagued by poor WiFi… my guess is it works fine up to a certain number of people/connections, but then the conference has more people than that connecting, and it slows to a crawl.

  1433. I would like to learn more about the award booking process and hear more about booking services or an easy way to diy.

  1436. the host hotel should have another gift card giveaway during the conference since it’s a conference for travel junkies!

  1437. Q: What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? —

    A: I’d want to learn about what is on the horizon with regards to programs, changes, or opportunities and how to react before the other 99.9% of the people.

  1438. I would want to know how to make the most of frequent flying and miles when you don’t fly that often (status through hotel stays instead, credit cards, etc.).

  1442. I would want to learn the ins and outs of using points for flight upgrades, which I still find kind of mystifying!

  1443. A conference host hotel really needs to make sure its wifi is boosted as so many attendees will be using the internet at once.

  1447. It is important for the host hotel to make sure their network is ready for the load created by such a conference.

  1448. I read answers and wonder if the writer read the question???
    Anyhoo – I want to learn more about booking – because I feel like I haven’t always gotten the best deal and I ALWAYS seem to be stressed when I book a reward ticket.

  1449. I could use some tips for organizing. I missed deadlines and paid annual fees I didn’t intend to pay.

  1457. I will be there and would love to learn more about how to seek out award seat availability on flights.

    As for Hyatt, I love their product and I feel the best thing they could do is expand upon where they see their awards program going in the next few years.

  1458. I always like to hear other frequent flyer’s opinions on program devaluations and at what point they consider switching programs – something I am always trying to figure out for myself!

  1459. Hotels that host conferences really need to make sure that their Wifi can handle the number of conference attendees using bandwidth simultaneously without significant performance lag. Seems so basic, but it is SO important.

  1460. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is provide reasonable internet access.

  1462. I’d want to learn the secret stuff that can only be learned in the hallways at the Frequent Traveler University.

  1464. Most important thing for a host hotel to know – location of the conference, hours, how to get there, logistics of all the events.

  1465. I would really like to know how some frequent travelers literally rack up millions of miles without being shut down

  1466. What to learn most at a gathering of frequent flyers – some lesser known awards that could get you either a better deal on points or an unexpected routing that may be interesting.

  1468. give the organizers what they need – especially a first time organizer – giving them some advice is a big helpt to everyone

  1470. What would you most want to learn at a gathering of frequent flyers? Things you don’t want to tell a large group of people!

  1471. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to know, or to do? Make sure the seats are comfortable!

  1474. Things at a FF gathering I’d like to explain is valuable airline partner routes and how best to achieve them.

  1475. The host hotel should have a separate floor or floors for the attendees and be able to keep them together.

  1477. I would love to have a walk through on different ways to book tricky complicated routes with different paid/non paid programs.

  1479. I want to learn how I can stretch my trip with small amount of mileage. I also want to lean about paying bills with credit card with less fees.

  1480. I would like to learn the in’s and out’s of finding award space when I want to travel and not when the airline wants me to travel.

  1483. question 1 – I would want to learn how to make the wisest decision on which airline to fly and hotel chain to sleep at.

  1485. question no 2. – the most important thing for the host hotel to know (and do) is to recognize that attendees are intelligent travels and better be at the top of their game and not full of BS when problems arise

  1487. 2. Conference hotel needs to ensure that when things go awry, they are proactive in trying to find a solution and also apologize for the inconvenience.

  1488. A host hotel needs to know when everyone is coming (reservation time) and leaving (wake up call is usually a good way to tell) and make sure that housekeeping is ready to clean rooms so that guest are able to check in and out quickly. Guests traveling from far away may need to get some rest. A hotel that keeps tabs on the rooms would be greatly appreciated.

  1489. Since it won’t be possible to retain everything, I would want to learn where I can go to find the information I’ll need to travel well yet affordably.

  1490. conference hotels must ensure a great customer experience since so many of the attendees of a conference can influence new business.

  1492. The most Important learning at the conference is that you are not alone in your crazy pursuit of miles and points.

  1497. It would be good to learn more about how to book awards more complicated than simple round-trips.

  1498. A conference hotel needs enough comfy chairs and groupings for people to congregate and free WIFi. Also, lots of coffee around

  1501. i think that a host hotel should be adaptive. they should be aware of what conference or group they are hosting and make arrangments for specialitys for the certain group to there taste

  1502. I would like to learn guidelines on how to search/book awards effectively to redeem miles at the maximum value!

  1503. I would like to learn how to maximize utilizing my points and tips on how to book award flights easier…

  1504. The best way, fastest, and cheapest way to meet minimum spend requirements for someone that doesn’t spend a lot of money each month!

  1505. As a person who lives outside the United States I’d love to hear about opportunities for earning miles and manufactured spending available to people abroad at an FTU event.

  1508. Hi,

    I am interested in learning how to use my miles wisely when booking international flights. I live in Charleston SC and feel I am limited to Delta.

  1511. I would like to learn how to use my rewards to the fullest! More in depth and helpful.

  1512. At a gathering of frequent fliers, I’d most want to learn how best to maximise opportunities when living outside of the US

  1513. Conference hotels need to get the staffing levels right for peak checkin/check out times for the attendees, and to hopefully get the attendees on the same floor/near each other where possible.

  1514. The conference hotel should have a staff member located outside of education rooms, conference lunch areas or meeting areas for guests to help with answering any questions. For instance help with finding the restrooms or directing the guests to where the next room would be found.

  1515. This is more for the speakers at the conference than the guest hotel. When someone asks a question the speaker should repeat the question. Often, the guests in the back of the room can’t hear the question asked from someone with a soft voice from the front of the room.

  1516. I would most like to learn from a group of frequent flyers, how to get the best deals on travel. Thanks 🙂

  1517. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is make everyone feel comfortable and welcome.

  1525. I need to learn cheapest way to fly to Hawaii with a free LAX stopover so I can take my wife for our anniversary.

  1526. What is the most important thing for a conference host hotel to do? Have fast, reliable wifi throughout the hotel.

  1527. The most important thing for a conference host hotel to do is provide free Wifi for conference attendees.

  1530. A host hotel should be appropriately staffed for keeping up with the size crowd at the conference – it is too easy for the event to reflect poorly on the host if they become a bottleneck.

  1533. The host hotel should be fluent in conference schedule and attendee profile. Adapt service and staffing to provide maximum support given activities and expectations.

  1536. The most important thing I want to learn at FTU is some of the travel strategies the the most frequent travelers have to make their experience easier

  1537. I think the most important thing the hotel can prepare for FTU is a free flow of Krug 😀

  1540. FTUs are a fantastic place not only for the seminars but also the great networking with new and old friends!

  1542. The host hotel should make sure they have enough staff to check guests in quickly. And STRONG wifi!

  1544. The hotel should make sure the WiFi is good enough for the number of people that will connect to it and offer good rates for attendees staying at the hotel.

  1546. I feel like the host hotel of the FTU should know the group of guests that they are catering to. The attendees are all experienced travelers so the expectation would be high and the hotel should plan accordingly

  1548. The most important thing for a host hotel to know is that free WiFi and a good breakfast are very important.

  1549. A conference host hotel needs to have enough staff to handle the influx of requests from all of the guests and organizers. Nothing worse than getting horrible service and the comment ‘Im sorry sir, as you aware the hotel is quite crowded’ – ummm, thats what a hotel is for.

    Strong wifi is also important these days and can be put under a lot of stress during conferences.

  1550. I think it is most important for hotels to know exactly what kind of event they are hosting in order to provide the best customer service and amenities. They should know the right questions to ask the clients before arriving.

  1552. For the conference, I’m usually looking for easy and innovative MS strategies and redemption strategies! Thanks!

  1553. Depends on the type of conference or meeting but being clean and free WIFI is a must, the rest can be cobbled together 🙂

  1555. I would like to learn more about putting together the once in a lifetime trip I have been saving my point toward.

  1556. I would like to learn techniques to achieve and maintain elite status for hotels and airlines on limited travel arrangements in a year.

  1558. Most important thing for the host hotel to do is keep Wifi up and running at reasonable speeds

  1559. The most important thing for a conference host hotel is that it create a welcoming environment that gives the guest a favorable view of the city. They should have plenty of information about local attractions (not just tourist traps), and be helpful with transportation.

  1562. Hotel has to have public meeting areas – couches, chairs, etc. A lot of networking “just happens” vs. planned activities.

  1563. The most important thing for a host hotel should have is a strong internet connection in all areas of the hotel and rooms. thanks!!

  1564. I would like to learn an easy way to manufacture large spend besides credit card sign up or running to a store (most are not near me) to load and unload varying cards. thanks!

  1565. I love hyatt properties and would like to stay at some hyatts with the best redemption for points

  1566. I would like to know the maximum level of MS you recommend across an entire portfolio. What is too much, where is there opportunity for more MS?

  1567. I would like a conference host hotel to know that conference goers should be treated as well as any other guests. I sometimes get the feeling they get sort of a downgrade on some services/amenities. (Although this depends upon the property, as sometimes it is fantastic.

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