Quick $200 Giveaway – Leave a Comment Here

by Gary Leff

Quick giveaway: $200 (2 prizes of $100 gift cards)

I received 5000 Starwood Starpoints from a complaint that I didn’t feel was a great idea for me to take. Rather than trying to get them to claw back the points, I feel better giving something away in its place. A few readers had proactively suggested (I didn’t ask for advice… 😛 ) that I give away Starpoints, but I can’t really transfer them and they’re expensive to buy. So a $100 gift card seems appropriate there.

And in addition I had an extra $100 card I had purchased to do a few experiments with, and that I don’t wind up needing. Obviously it’s money, and I could either use the card or manage to get the funds back into a bank account. But the card was purchased in the name of frequent flyer ‘science’ so I figure it’s worth giving away here as well.

So that’s two good reasons to give away $100, and I thought I’d give away 2 x $100 gift cards. It’s not a monster big prize, so we’re not going to do a multi-day multi-post extravaganza on it. Just a quick giveaway over the course of the next 24 hours. (I’m leaving it open that long to ensure everyone following by email subscription, or regardless of time zone, has a change to participate.)

All you have to do is leave a comment on this post that answers any of the following:

  • What you will do with a $100 gift card?
  • What is the best travel tip you know?
  • What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

Any of these work.

You may enter one time only. By entering you agree that I’m trying to do something reasonably nice and you won’t give me a hard time over the nuances of rules, complain in any way, and agree to be bound by any and all of my judgments are they relate to this offer (and agree that those judgments are final and are not appealable).

Fire away in the comments, I look forward to drawing winners and sending out the prizes.

About Gary Leff

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

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  1. I’ve learned the Gary knows as much about the point and travel industry as anyone and enjoys imparting his knowledge upon others.

  4. Your blog has taught me about the relative rather than absolute value of points! Always first class — no. Buy points — yes but only sometimes. It’s the grey areas that make travel rewards interesting. Thanks

  10. I was just accepted to a grad program in Washington state! Woo hoo!! Because I live in colorado, I’d use the gift card towards my hotel stay in Washington when I’m looking for housing. Every little bit helps considering how much I’ll be spending on tuition 🙂

  11. The best travel tip I know is that in the event of IROPS, you should be both on the phone and line up at the gate/in the club so that you can quickly rebook before alternative flights are taken up.

  13. I would use the 100 gift card for my dogs upcoming surgery. I love her, but pets are expensive.

  14. The answer to #2 and #3 is the same — hang up, call again. I just HATE doing this because it takes SO much time, and I don’t like being evasive (um,lying), but it’s the only way to find out the possibilities/probabilities of what you’re trying to do and then achieve the trip you want to make happen.

  15. 100 $ means a good dinner for my next trip to NYC! The best travel tip: to read your blog ! What I´ve learned from your blog: be smart and use the right credit card

  18. What is the most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog? Keep reading! 🙂 Seriously, this miles/points/travel game changes all the time, like all the devaluations. The best way to stay current is to read, read, read. I know the 2nd most valuable is not required, but I’m going to say it anyway, and that’s sharing. This blog (along with many others) is so good because readers contribute to the pool of knowledge.

  19. $100 would help me purchase my ticket to TPA on US, for a last opportunity to earn Star Alliance miles for Gold status with A3, Great Blog, Thanks

  23. What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    A: That a penchant for details about travel, loyalty programs and airlines goes a long way towards making your life more fulfilled!

  24. Best travel tip is if hotels are sold out in a city to take a look on Airbnb to see what is available. We did this when hotels were $700+ in Austin for the F1 race. We found a house with 2 rooms for $800. Great deal!

  25. $100 would be put towards my trip to South Pacific! Perhaps a new bathing suit and snorkel gear! I think the most valuable thing I learned from your blog is about myself…I’m inspired to be a travel writer!

  27. > What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    Chase Sapphire card. I love having flexible points that aren’t tied to one carrier or one hotel chain!

  28. Best thing I learned from this blog is you Can Travel anywhere in the world with points and patience.

  29. I would use the $100 gift card towards a deposit on an eastbound transatlantic cruise, using frequent flyer miles for the return flight home

  32. The best advice I have gotten from the blog is your credit card strategy for 2014 and the 3 reasons to get a credit card (good sign on bonus, good benefits, and rewarding spending)!

  36. I would buy my wife something nice with the $100. My best tip is using avios for short distances. The most valuable thing ive learned is to never say never and beleive you can travel to anywhere you wish.

  37. This blog always gives me ideas of how to burn miles and points in the most efficient way. In addition, Gary’s travel reports are better than Samantha Brown’s. Enough said.

  38. When staying in a hotel for more than a few days, I find out who will be servicing my room and I tip them up front. Without fail, I have been left extra ammenities, a bottle of wine, even flowers.

  39. My wife travels out of ORD. Not sure when winter will end, so I’ll get her a couple of United Club passes.

  40. I would use the $100 gift card to enter a marathon in a race out of state – travel required. I also think when traveling to be respectful of others and their cultures by doing your homework before your trip. Thanks. And finally I know that this website keeps me up to date on the latest travel deals. I also have learned that there is so much more to learn. Thanks for everything.

  41. $100 gift card: would help supplement my travel budget for my London and Prague Trip to celebrate my 30th Birthday in 2 weeks, especially after just moving from the west coast to the east coast (DC)!

    Best travel tip: always get miles or points!

    Most valuable thing learned: How to travel more! Really have learned SO much (too much to list or pick what was best!)

    I know I didn’t have to answer all 3 but I wanted too!
    Thanks 😉

  43. I would go to dinner if i won!
    My tip would be to reuse amenity kits for future use.
    I learned how to utilize my points.

  48. 1. Trip to Maui in May.
    2. Bring ziplocs, lots of ziplocs while traveling.
    3. How to burn miles wisely.

  51. I will use it for my upcoming 1st Weddng Anniversary trip to New Zealand. Thanks a ton for all the tips and tricks.

  52. Best travel tip: Keep your passport in a zip lock bag or some other waterproof device if there’s even the potential for a monsoon. Learned that one the hard way.

  56. First of all, thank you for the chance and for just being you.

    If I won the giftcard, I would take my mom out to dinner for her birthday and then also buy her groceries with the remainder.

    Best wishes everyone!

  60. The most valuable thing I have learned from this blog is to diversify your points portfolio. After all of the recent devaluations, it’s been very nice having other options to consider!

  65. With $100 I would treat the family to a dinner out to discuss upcoming travel(using points, of course).

  68. Most important thing I learned: where to eat in Singapore. What? It was a really important lesson.

  70. I’ve learned to pay attention to credit card promo offers I receive, sometimes it a great deal with better bennies that I already have.

  73. The big tip I learned from this blog is use points on domestic flights to Europe. It has saved me a whole lotta money. I would use the $100 in Italy when I go visit my daughter in march.

  79. Best travel advice: Plan ahead obsessively (eg, knowing multiple options for, say, train travel to airport on day of departure) & then go with the flow when the day arrives, knowing you don’t need to sweat the details if one plan falls through.

    Also, either buy a local SIM for your phone or just suck it up & pay for data roaming. Wifi isn’t ubiquitous.

  82. I could use the $100 for dinner for the parents on their trip to Hawaii from that Delta fare glitch back in Dec.

  84. TI would use the gift card for 2 of my passions: caffeine and electronics. I would shop at Staples to buy a $60 Starbucks gift card, which would give me 300 Chase Ultimate Rewards and 300 Plink Awards and then transfer the funds to my Starbucks Gold Card to feed my caffeine passion and earn additional free beverages after the requisite # of purchases. I would use the balance on the gift card toward a new laser printer cartridge under Staples rewards program and to earn an addition 200 Chase Ultimate Rewards.

  85. 1) I would use it to treat my wife a small dinner.
    2) Always first check your passport after stepping your feet outside your house/hotel room on travel trips.
    3) Best tip I learn from here is to be patient hangups & callback phone calls.

  88. I would take the $100 and buy my wife a gift… With the money leftover, probably go buy myself a sandwich.

  90. Ask until you like the answer like you say. Most recent example, We were cancelled in CLT due to snow last week. We were rebooked for the next day and we would miss one full day in Paris. They said it was because we were in business they did us that “favor” I asked twice more and we were rebooked in Lufthansa for the same day we were supposed to travel.

  92. What I have learned from VFtW is that being a informed traveller is the number one factor for enjoying the possibilities that exist for any trip!

  93. Best tip- If you want an upgrade, start by asking! I am 8 for 13 just by asking specifically for the room i want…thanks!!!!!

  94. I’ll use it to help with my last minute mileage run to HEL this coming weekend, my last as Executive Platinum before going to lowly Gold!

  95. I would use it to pay for those things you can’t earn points and get free (food, entertainment, etc) on our next trip to Aruba!

  96. The most valuable thing learned is to diversify those points and use those Skypesos when the opportunity arises. (If that happens!)

  97. Best travel tip: if you don’t ask, the answer is always no. If you do ask, you may get a yes.

  98. I think I will donate the gift card to my son’s annual FFA Auction. It is a very good organization that helps children understand more about agriculture.

  102. I live near a few airports. Since picking up at one and leaving at the other is not considered one-way by some car rental companies, sometimes I can do a “positioning” rental to start or end flights, with a significant cost savings over the round trip using one airport.

  104. Most valuable thing learned from your blog: travel requires planning along with a dose of patience.

  106. My kids would totally love for me to take them to the beach. I would use the $100 to take them to sunny Florida!!

  108. I would love to use the gift card for a birthday dinner for my fiancee in March.
    I learned so many good things reading this blog about credit card sign up strategies and booking award travel with free O/W’s and stop overs.
    Also have a plan B and C in place for travel interruptions due to weather i.e. hotel bookings you can cancel before 6pm local time, get on the phone while standing in line etc.
    Thanks for all the great stuff you write about…….

  109. We would use it to help pay the award booker ‘s fee for ou next trip on miles.
    Best tip : always get miles / points for buying groceries & gas & household products.

  110. Need a new camera lens for our summer trip to Hawaii (book entirely with points thanks to what I learned from Gary!)

  111. I would use the travel card to offset part of the cost of travel to visit my mom in March. My best travel tip can be summed up in this statement “be nice to the people you come into contact with who work in the travel world”. The thing i have learned from “View from the Wing” is that there are so many things ‘to learn’! in this wonderful hobby of ours and Gary is so patient. Thanks Gary

  118. We are headed to Phoenix soon to see our one month old grandson and our two granddaughters, so some spoiling by Grandma would be the PERFECT use for $100. 🙂

  119. I’d try my darnedest to apply the gift card to my OzFest trip this year. Australia’s expensive, but so so worth it.

  124. My wife and I are planning a trip to Sonoma/Mendocino later this year and a $100 gift card would help offset those travel expenses.

    Do you have any advice for a wine country excursion?

  129. I used your blog to research cash back cards this morning and learned that active service military don’t have to pay the amex yearly fees and can claim credit retroactively. Thanks.

  130. The most valuable thing I’ve learned is that credit card sign up bonuses are the key to building up your frequent flyer account balance.

  132. I don’t need the gift card. But I read your blog daily and always learned something interesting.

  139. Buy as many Groupons, Living Socials or Travelzoo restaurant deals as I can for restaurants that also participate in the Dining Rewards Network…gotta love double and, by going through a portal, triple-dipping to give the love of my life a great time!

  140. I would use the gift card to take my wife to the movies…….no wait, that is a 5x Freedom category this quarter so I guess I have to save the gift card for something else!

  146. With the $100 gift card, I will use it to offset a spa treatment for me and my soon-to-be wife at the St. Regis Princeville in Kauai during our honeymoon.

  148. What would I do with $100?

    Great question. I would invest half of it in Charles Ponzi’s international reply coupons. Significant potential for growth there.

    Then the other half would go into a Houston-based energy company named Enron. I like the cut of their jib.

    In short, good sir, I am going to give your money legs! I predict the 100$ will soon become at least 1000$

  151. I’d use the $100 gift card on my upcoming vacation to Europe, which was partly made possible by Gary’s sage advice.

  158. I’d probably use it for any spends that I cannot get more than 2X on, so nothing from Office stores, gas station, or restaurants. Perhaps pay the cable bills?

  161. I will use the $100 to dive with sharks when I visit Australia using points that I learned to acquire while reading your blog

  163. Most valuable thing(s) I’ve learned from you, Gary, is how to wrack up huge numbers of miles in a variety of programs mostly via credit card bonuses and spend. Truly helpful.

  165. I’d break the hundred dollars into twenties and use it to score upgrades in Vegas. Fine it a number of times and it had never failed.

  167. The most valuable thing I have learned is how to accrue miles through credit card usage, and then how to redeem those earned miles for the best possible value.

  171. I would use the $100 toward paying the fuel surcharge on a BA award ticket to get home from Europe next summer. 🙂

  174. Pack clothes you are planning to donate. You can still donate at your destination and will have more room in your suitcase for souvenirs. The whole family is doing this in Milan right now but my daughter isn’t happy about having to wear floods!

  175. Share it with my newlywed friends from Montana, who i am gifting with award tix to FL in late March to thaw out!

  176. I would pour $100 back into basic frequent traveler research to supplement government funding 😉

  180. I’ve learned that anyone can travel in style but it does require some work to get the most out of it

  184. Best travel tip I’ve learned is how to most effectively use US Airways Divided Miles for Star Alliance reward to North Asia with free stopover in Europe. I’ve done this reward ticket twice in the past 8 months!

  186. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog: simple economics related to miles. Back when US Airways did that 250% Holiday shopping bonus (aka as either the “trackitback deal” or more simply “the stickers deal”), I was on the fence. Didn’t want to buy a bunch of stuff I didn’t need; didn’t really want to fly US Air. Then, you posted the math, showing how we could essentially purchase miles for very little and use them on amazing award travel. A real light bulb went off for me. My life–and that of my family and friends–has never been the same!

  187. Best travel tip: Don’t spend BA avios on BA long hauls, use them on shorthauls (especially on AA or LAN)

  192. the most important thing i’ve learned from this blog is the importance of diversification! (esp when different promos come up and they require a certain currency….)

  193. What I’ve learned from this blog is the importance of finding the award seats you want before calling to book your trip. Phone agents are too busy and say no too much to be expected to find the most creative routings and their computers don’t necessarily find all stopover options.

  194. I would take the $100 gift card and use it toward a Priority Club stay to get credit towards Big Win so I can get more points!

  199. When you’re in a restaurant in China don’t call the waitress “Miss”. It also means “Whore” in Chinese.

  200. I’ll use the $100 gift card towards expenses when I attend the Seattle FTU in April! That’s a win-win for both us, Gary! 🙂 Thank you for all you do!

  201. $100 will go to buying an AA gift card to add to my $200 in AMEX Platinum credits for a cheap airfare to Miami this summer!

  206. I would use gift card for dinner and a show.
    Best travel tip: put all liquids in plastic a shopping bag so in case it leaks it somewhat mitigates damage.
    Best tip from this blog: CREDIT VARDS

  209. I will use the $100 to offset some of the ridiculous YQ charges for a transatlantic award ticket.

  210. I’d use the GC towards my wedding, God knows we need it…

    Travel tip: Carryon only. Unless you have kids

    Learning about the Aeroplan redemptions way back when – I’ve now channeled that knowledge and sending my fiancee and myself onto an epic honeymoon!

  211. The most valuable thing I have learned from this blog is that despite what every teacher has told me, it is possible to become successful as a writer without ever proofreading.

  212. ■What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    One of the first things I learned: Buy gift cards from office supply stores with an Ink card for 5x, then use those cards yourself. Thank you!

  215. Biggest thing I have learned is Aegean potential, use for card is for trip to Yyz to see friends and get A3 miles! And best tip is to diversify points against devaluations (technically learned here too!)

  217. Best travel : avoid checking luggage .i can avoid the counter and check in online and go straight to security. It may get lost and it also takes you longer to stand by carousel to pick up post flight! tip pack a grocery tote bag just in case . Often times I buy too much and my suit case is full. So I pull out stuff to put in the tote and throw my purse in that tote so it only counts as one carry on.

  218. I’d use the gift card and get the cats some new toys. Small consolation for always being left at home during our world travels.

  227. I’ve learned a lot of things from this blog but the first thing that comes to mind is how worthless my Sky Pesos are.

  229. I would use the GC to pay for my airtrain to and from JFK for the delta platinum medallion promotion.

    Travel tip: always print multiple copies of your boarding passes.

    Blog: always register for promotions, you never know when your travel plans will lead to bonus points,

  230. Thank you for sharing your story and good luck with your readers. With a $100 gift card, I would buy as many cans of tuna as possible and donate them to our local food pantry. Protein is difficult for many to obtain.

  231. What you will do with a $100 gift card? – I will give it to my wife and let her spend it as she sees fit 🙂

    What is the best travel tip you know? – Make sure to buy travelers medical insurance, it has saved us many times

    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog? – I like the reviews of hotels that you have stayed it. The tips from those reviewed has helped us with planning of which hotels to stay at

  232. What would I do with a $100 GC?
    My tennis-playing shoes have holes in them, I realy need a new pair. I’d buy myself an Amazon GC with the rest to ensure I completely cash out the card.

  234. I will use it towards travel expenses on an upcoming family vacation to Australia, maximizing the value of my huge cache of Skypesos thanks to info obtained on this blog.

  235. 1. Buy wife Fairmont robe with gift card.
    2. KVS Tool
    3. Hang up and call back.

    Thanks Gary. Glad you love to write.

  238. When calling an airline be polite and if you do not obtain what you know is possible, hang up and call again.

  243. I will use the gift card for a gift to a 2-year old foster child…. who is being adopted tomorrow morning

  246. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog is the fickle nature of reward points and to diversify your wallet to account for it.

  247. I would use the $100 to buy some jewelry for my fiancee to present to her when we stay at Park Hyatt Sydney in a few months!

  248. What you will do with a $100 gift card?
    Use it to offset my $3.95 VR fees for the next few months!

  253. I’d spend the GC during my upcoming trip to New York.

    Travel tip is to tip! I always tip my airline attendant, especially when flying first or business class. Just a tiny box of wrapped chocolates or some other small token to show my appreciation for their service.

    I’ve been loving your best credit cards by bank series. Thanks for all the great info!

  255. I have learned to use expert flyer for finding award seats and how to book the seats once I find them . Recently booked 3 in Business class LAX to CDG on ATN with AA miles ….Thank you

  256. After being snowbound for five days, I’d use it for a night at an IHG hotel that will count towards the Big Win, and hopefully get upgraded to a suite with the Platinum status I acquired through getting the iHG CC.

  257. The most important thing I have learned on this blog is that I can earn miles and fly first class without being a frequent flyer!

  260. best travel tip I know(or use) is using ba miles on short single seg flights for 4500 miles – sweet!

  261. I would use the gift card to attend my 12 year old niece’s gymnastics tournament. She has Olympic potential.

  263. $100 for gas to fund my car’s appetite to visit every CVS in town & stock up on VRs for my trip to Burma! thanks

  267. Best travel tip I know? Be nice to airline/hotel/etc staff when traveling — esp but not only when itineraries start going awry. They are generally doing their best to accommodate folks angry about problems they didn’t cause. There’s no need to blame them. More selfishly, they may have the discretion and desire to do something nice in return. But be courteous and polite even if not.

  268. Gray taught me to never cancel a Chase CC, until you want another card issued by them. Then move your credit limit to the new card and only then cancel the old card.

  269. What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog? How miles and points can help you to have a great vacation/trip at acceptable costs.

  271. I would use the $100 gift card on baby stuff for our expecting new one! Then take the baby to see relatives in Asia!

  272. What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    2 things
    – Hang up and call again
    – Earn & burn – don’t hold on….

  274. I’d hand the gift card to the first Service man/woman I see on my next flight. They might get quite a bit of praise, but that doesn’t always help alleviate the financial burdens that occasionally come along with the job.

  277. Well, I’m getting married in June, so $100 would definitely help put a (very small) dent into cake costs! 🙂

  282. I would put the $100 towards a new carry-on bag.
    My tip is to scan your documents to your computer in case they get lost.
    I like your reviews of credit card offers. Learned what to get and what to pass on.

  283. Best travel tip I’ve just learned is to check the hotels price guarantee and see if you can get something free if a travel site has it cheaper

  288. I’d use the gift cards for travel expenses. Best advice is to be aware of all the fine print and follow the rules.

  296. I would use the $100 towards my hotel room in the Bahamas. Booked air tickets for July using southwest points!!

  300. I would put the gift card towards a weekend in Nashville. My favorite city within driving distance!

  302. I would use the 100 gift card on an upcoming trip to Vegas – really want to try the brunch at the Mandarin…….

  304. The best thing I have learned is to use a credit card with points that transfer to different airline programs. But I have learned SO much more.

  306. My number one travel tip would have to be using AAA rates at hotels. Here in Australia most people don’t realise that our local Motoring services (in my case the NRMA) are AAA affiliated and can be used to book AAA rates both here and when travelling. Such an easy way to book a cheaper, cancellable rate and so many people here just assume it is only for AAA card holders!

  307. The most valuable thing I have learned from this blog is a range of ways to maximize the value of Hyatt points.

  309. Best travel tip – Be friendly & Smile often! I would use the $100 on my upcoming trip to Seattle and Portland with my daughter. It’s her first trip to the Pacific Northwest.

  314. Best travel trip….if you call in to customer service be polite and if you don’t get the answer you want, politely hang up….and then try again!

  318. I’d use the $100 gift card to buy early bird check-in for the 4 flights I have booked using Southwest Companion Pass.

  320. The $100 gift card will allow me to do something fun with my fiancé and kids in between the 4 jobs I’m working to help pay for a wedding and put food on the table!

  323. There’s some randomness to Pre-Check eligibility for each flight. Check your boarding pass before you get to security…or you might have an unpleasant surprise.

  328. What you will do with a $100 gift card?

    I will use the $100 to help get my miles/points charity project off the ground.

  331. Here I’ve learned to Earn and Burn in roughly the same timeframe due to devaluations. Thank you!

  332. Use it for caddie fees during a surprise trip I’m taking my dad on in April (St Andrews golf trip via Aer Lingus!)

  340. I am new to the world of miles and points. I am going to use the $100 to cover the fees for experimenting with the spend.

  341. I’ve learned that flexibility is key. Appreciate the fact you’re getting to experience something great, and don’t get super worked up if it doesn’t go just as planned.

  342. Going on a 5 day trip to Nashville this summer and would love to use the $100 towards expenses on this trip

  343. The best travel tip I’ve learned is to know what you want/expect the outcome of a call to be, and if you don’t get that: hang up and call again.

  345. Most useful thing I learned: Getting status-matched Turkish Miles and Smiles Gold which gives me access to United and Air Canada lounges!

  347. Best tip: but now, you can always cancel it within 24hrs. $100 goes along way towards a night out with my man.

  349. I will do you best and answer all three:

    1. In the event it is an unrestricted GC (Amex/Visa etc.), I will definitely apply it to my upcoming latecoming Valentine’s Day stay next weekend.

    2. Hang up and call back (really came through in booking last minute C+P reservations recently).

    3. Where to eat in Las Vegas (among many other places).

  350. Best travel tip I know: Travel with a spare zip-lock bag. At your hotel room, slip the remote control in the bag and press the buttons through the bag, so you don’t have to touch the dirty remote that the hotel probably hasn’t sanitized or cleaned in years.

  351. I’d use the gift card for my upcoming stay at the westin in napa for a nice weekend with my significant other.

  359. I have learned to tailor cards to my needs. Protect my fico score as an important asset.

    thanks for all you do.

  363. The art of calling US Airways to book a difficult award ticket. 1. Hang up call back, 2. chat with, 3. pray 4. drink. Not necessarily in that order.

  364. I would use the $100 GC towards the Mexico trip coming up later this year. Travel tip would be to be nice to agents .. never know what you may get in return. This blog has been very informative in terms of promos / cc sign-ups / etc.

  366. when searching for awards – keep calling until you find someone knowledgeable and willing to help

  368. the existence of this blog is worth much more than $100 in GC but I m not say this just to get one. I think the readers have much more to give back to you for what you provided to us . Thank You

  369. What you will do with a $100 gift card?

    Assuming it’s a $100 Visa GC, I’ll deposit the amount into my BB and use the money for my upcoming trip to Rome.

  370. Always take a pair of extra clothing in cabin luggage on international trips, will come in handy if luggage does not make it in time.

  373. The best thing I’ve learned: diversify! In particular, in those programs that offer some spectacular value and redemption opportunities, like Avianca’s 🙂

  377. Most valuable thing learned from this blog : do the math, you will be surprised to see the savings!

  378. I would use it towards a laptop. Have been without a laptop/computer for 2 years. I have been sponging off my husband’s broken laptop (it’s over 6 years old and certain keys do not work like the mouse button grrrr)
    I need a laptop to work on my resumes and to find a job in a new city. Moving soon without any job prospects really scary man!
    Travel Tip: always bring a pen to fill out immigration, customs, and other forms. it saves you time to fill them out on the plane vs when you are in line. also your fellow neighbors would appreciate it as well. make new friends!

  383. The best travel tip – Always check and re-check your confirmations. Make sure you have right dates, times, airports, airlines etc..

  386. What you will do with a $100 gift card?
    $50: Drinks with the girlfriend / $50:buy drinks for the nearest 8 people on my next flight
    What is the best travel tip you know?
    Be nice. Travel, even on the worst of days, is an incredible luxury.
    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?
    Too many to mention – keep at it!

  387. I would use it to take my daughter to the Cubs vs. Indians Spring Training game in Mesa, AZ while we are there during spring break! It also happens to be her 7th birthday. She LOVES cubby bear! Lol. Go cubs go!

  390. Best travel tip that I’ve ever received (and now am submitting) is from my late mother-in-law: when your underwear wear out, hold onto them for your next trip. Discarding them after use on your trip makes more space in your luggage for purchases during the trip!

  391. “What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?”

    To read your blog!

    You can’t possibly know how much I have learned from reading your blogs. There are some incredible deals/ways of thinking/creative ways of handling situations that I might never have discovered, had I not read your posts.

  398. I would use the $100 Gift Card towards seaplane transfers for our Nov trip to the Maldives. I learned how to maximize my Hilton points before devaluation and extend the booking times from your blog!

  399. 1) buy my kids some toys as I always run out of time on trips
    2) Get a VPN for Internet usage in China
    3) Pack lots if spare time when flying with a connection

  400. 1. This gift card will go towards a nice WARM vacation to Bermuda out of this polar vortex…

    2. Best travel Tip I have found most useful would be HIDDEN CITY TICKETING

    3. MOST valuable thing I have learned from this blog is how to obtain instant free Hilton Gold status.

  401. Gary your bog has taught me how to maximize my points I earn from my business travel… Case in point, off to Europe and was able to book a nice LAX-CDG-HKG-FRA-LAX for 180K for two people, with a stop over and destination. Thank you

  402. Wow lots of comments, you’ve got a lot of readers these days. Probably get an appetizer on Bora Bora if I win a GC.

  403. I’d use the $100 GC to give my wife something unexpected since I’m not expecting to win the GC.

  404. 1. Take my fiance out on a long over due date.
    2. It never hurts to ask for anything. (Advice/upgrades)
    3. How to meet minimum spending on credit cards through manufactured spending.

  406. Best travel trip? two: 1) keep your phone charged 2) before you pay for anything, see if you can get miles–or preferably double or triple miles–for it.

  408. The most useful tip for me has been learning how to meet minimum spending requirements through Vanilla Reloads.

  414. Best thing I learned is that there is no scale of travel that is not achievable if you have good credit and avidly follow the advice given in this column.

  415. I’d use it to go out to a nice dinner with my husband, something we’ve somehow managed to go without doing for the last 3 months (new baby, sickness, busy job, etc. We need a date night!)

  417. The best thing I have learned from this blog is that if you are willing to put the time in in terms of research, frequent flyer miles can help you take trips you never thought possible!

  418. With $100 I’ll pay fees/surcharges on all these amazing First Class award redemptions I book using tips from your blog!

  422. What you will do with a $100 gift card? Take my Mom to dinner. AND thank you for doing something MORE than reasonably nice. 😉

  424. So many valuable things I’ve learned from your blog! If I have to pick one – Hang Up Call Again. 🙂

  426. Going to Greece with my family on points, thanks to your blog advice and tips. Best travel advice: be flexible and stay away from the tourist herds, do something different.

  429. 1) I will use $100 to pay for the air-fare, because
    2) I learned that one of the best travel tip is usually to book open-jaws (or even double open-jaws) to travel cheap and earn miles
    3) I learned from Gary that following his blog on a day-to-day basis may stretch not only your points and miles, but as well the Franklin dollar bill, from question # 1)).
    And lastly, Happy President’s Day Gary and all followers of this awesome blog!

  437. Best thing I’ve learned: The power of credit card sign-up bonuses and the use of Avios for short-haul flights, particularly in the U.S. (In four short months of reading this blog, I’ve been able to accrue enough miles to take my wife on her first international flight in anything other than coach (and our first trip since having a baby)!)

    Use of $100: Gelato for two near the Trevi fountain (and the rest for pesky fuel surcharges on BA).

  438. * Use the GC to buy a ticket to BWI to surprise my wife whose there for work.
    * Always keep your toes in your socks.
    * Hang up and call again.

    Thanks Gary!!

  439. What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    I am much more smarter and wiser than ever before. Without your and a few other blogs, I am not sure if I could ever make so many trips abroad with my family.

  442. Best thing I’ve learned on this site: using Bluebird and Vanilla reload to earn miles. Last year I effectively bought 20,000 UA miles for $79.

  445. When I first started looking at frequent flier and stayer programs yours was one of the very first I learned of. From you I learned how to transfer enough points etc. to American Airlines that I made lifetime platinum (I was already gold). And I made it under the AA deadline. I have been a fan (and loyal reader ) ever since.

  446. Luckily, I have enough for my needs so I would give it to a charitable organization.

    Best travel tip: You need to be informed and you need to be ready to take advantage of deals which you really need and want.

  447. What is the best travel tip you know?

    Be flexible. The more flexible you are in terms of dates, location, etc., the more you can make your travel affordable (or cheap!) and consequently be able to travel even more.

  448. Tip: book your hotel early and then check for price drops as you can usually rebook at the lower price.

  451. I’d use it to pay taxes/surcharges for an upcoming business class flight to Paris. Before this hobby, I never would have dreamed I’d be taking this flight.

  452. What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    Helped me make more trips abroad than I could normally afford.

  461. In addition to gaining valuable advice on how to book my first class award tix to Australia for later this year, the best non-travel thing I’ve learned form this site is the lead on a great coffee roaster out in AZ!

  465. Use the $100 towards serving Gary’s favorite drink at my wedding in April… Costa Rica no less. Aim to travel during shoulder seasons and stay twice as long. If it wasn’t for you, me and my fiancé wouldn’t have gotten in on the 100k Amex plat deal last year!

  467. What is the best travel tip you know?
    If you are travelling to China, it’s always better to make sure the taxi driver use meter rather than negotiate a price. Usually they won’t start the meter until you notice that and ask for a high price.

  469. I have an upcoming trip to Hawaii thanks to Delta and would love to use the $100 towards some Mai Tais.

  470. What would I do? Give it to our babysitter.

    What’s the most valuable thing I’ve learned? Apply for credit card signup bonuses.

    Best travel tip? Apply for signup bonuses.

  471. I would totally splurge on a meal at Bohemic in Barcelona this April if I won $100! My friend raved that it was the best meal of her life and went back twice with her husband…

  473. I have learned many valuable things from this blog. The most valuable thing is probably how to optimize credit card spending by being selective — by using certain specific cards for certain specific categories of spending.

  474. I would use the $100 to help pay some of the meal costs on our November post-United/Hyatt devaluation blowout in the South Pacific.

  480. I’m going to say spend it on half marathon entries, or as general travel funds for upcoming trips.

  481. I’ve learned so much from Gary. Beyond the piles of points I’ve “earned” thanks to his guidance, I’ve learned that few good deeds go unpunished and he’s sure to get flack from readers for something about this giveaway!

  482. I would use the $100 gift card to help reschedule our 5 year anniversary trip that was completely cancelled this weekend due to the snow storm on the east coast.

  483. I very appreciate your blog – I have learned many things, from how to use credit cards and what a 5x is, to routing ideas, and some cool promos along the way. Thank you, Gary

  490. I would use the $ pay the taxes on a free flight I will take on my next vacation which was given to me by Gary with all the tips I have gotten. The best tip I can giveback is to be aware of how to use the credit cards to maximize your points.

  494. What you will do with a $100 gift card? Use it for my wedding anniversary coming up next weekend
    What is the best travel tip you know? The power of credit card sign-up bonuses
    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog? Learning to use the right credit cards for spending!

  498. What is the best travel tip I know?

    A tip that I live by is to always travel light (carryon only). This allows you to get to the airport later, leave your arriving airport earlier, and saves you headaches for filling out baggage claims.

  501. the best travel tip that I know? Is probably to check in on all the “best” travel blogs – several times per day!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  504. I would use the $100 gift card to take my 4 step-kids to the Children’s Zoo, and to buy them the toy animal of their choice

  505. – I don’t know, $100 would probably go towards pocket money on our next trip (to Paris!)
    – The best travel tip I can give is to parents: don’t let fear of traveling with kids prevent your from getting out there and seeing the world.
    – I’d say this blog gives me a unique perspective on the business of travel.

  507. Travel tip. Just be kind to those in the travel industry. When your travel plans go from good to bad; just be kind and smile. This attitude can move mountains.

  509. The most valuable thing I have learned from this blog is the great value of credit card signup bonuses. Imagine ……. I used to think the best way to earn miles quickly was to buy airline tickets.

  510. Tip: haven’t heard this discussed much, but signing up for Avianca’s life miles allows you search the entire star alliance availability. There’s a drop down button that literally says search star alliance.

  511. One of the most valuable things I’ve learned on this blog is how to use AA award rules to get free domestic trips tacked onto the beginning and end of a trip.

  513. What is the most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog?

    I have learned so much from this blog to where I cannot possibly list it all; so instead I say: Thank you!

  515. I’d use it toward scuba certification so that I can dive on my honeymoon in hawaii this spring!

  518. The best advice I’ve learned from this blog is to stick to your guns. You have a passion for doing this and in spite of negativity you receive, you continue to play the game and win. Thank you for all of your contribution.

  519. Award travel is not a piece of cake, plan in advance, know all your options and do your homework to get best out of your miles. Hangup and callback if you don’t get it right.

  521. I’ve learned so much about points and miles travel from your blog and excitedly we are going on our first real trip to Mexico. Staying at an all inclusive resort for 6 nights. Had enough miles for flights and points for 5 nights. Opted to stay another night paid so would use the $100 to offset that one cost of the trip!

  527. I would use the $100 gift card towards my upcoming trip to Iceland to hopefully see the northern lights!

  534. The best travel tip I know is to spend 5 minutes doing a google search for XXX promo code. Can save hundreds of dollars in seconds!

  540. The best travel tip I have is to be courteous and friendly with the gate agent and let them know you have FLEXIBLE travel plans should they need a volunteer for an oversold flight. I can’t begin to tell you how many free or nearly free flights I’ve gotten over the years….. it pays to be nice too.

  542. The most valuable thing I’ve learned is that I don’t have to be scared to churn credit cards.

  547. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog is that I should order the lemon poppy seed pancakes from the Andaz 5th Avenue. (Which I did!)

  550. Most valuable thing learned: free domestic one-way flights on an American international award. Huge value!

  555. What you will do with a $100 gift card?
    I have been traveling for 2 years now and its quite hard for me to admit but I still haven’t purchased a backpacking backpack. Help save me from the hand-me-down suitcases! Please!

  560. Best travel tip is to put small quantities of facial care products and creams into a contact lens case. Plenty to get through a weekend, and incredibly cheap to buy. Easy to stick in your carryon freedom baggie!

  566. 1. I’d spend the $100 on breakfast at the andaz maui this summer – on a points stay learned through this blog.

    2. Best travel advice: hang up try again.

    3. Most valuable blog advice is the impact of many cards on ones credit — not just the hows but the whys.

  568. Best travel tip I know: be mentally prepared to change your schedule and don’t as sweat the changes when they happen.

  574. I would use the $100 gift card to help defray some rather heavy dining expenses on my summer trip to Sydney and Melbourne for a conference this July.

  575. The most important travel tip has been trying to tailor my credit card applications towards future travel. Would love to use it for 5th anniversary trip to Italy in April.

  578. ■What you will do with a $100 gift card?

    I would use the $100 gift card towards a flight back to the Phillipines to see my friends.

  579. 1. Buy my wife a belated dozen roses
    2. Rent your car as early as possible & keep rechecking prices
    3. SPG is THE go-to card

  583. I would use the $100 gift card to purchase admission to a future FTU to talk more about travel hacking.

  586. I have greatly appreciated and utilized the heads up on point bearing credit card offers. We have children in college in NY and Baltimore and a recent grad in Philly, so being college poor we have reveled in free stays in these cities, which is how we would use the Starwood $100.
    Thanks for the good work!

  588. I would use the $100 gift card to have a steak dinner with my nephew who is a marine stationed in San Diego next week when I am visiting him. He just got back from Afghanistan. Before he went to Afghanistan, we had a great steak dinner (he had a 24 oz bone in rib eye) and I promised him that we would do this again when he comes home. Time to fulfill that promise.

  590. Valuable travel tip: rather than splurging money on premium seats, get the 2nd row of exit row seats. They refine as we RL as he save more my reg room than in premium economy.

  591. Learned so much from the blog but Using United Miles on partners a few years back when I started this points habit.

  594. This is easy–I would gift the card to Valley Food Bank– http://www.valleyfoodbank.org/‎ which is a charity ranked extremely high in terms of its efficiency and transparency in fulfilling its mission of feeding undernourished and deserving folks. Disclosure: I have none other than I read about the organization, checked it out, and greatly appreciate their work.

  598. What you will do with a $100 gift card?
    -I could try to answer this but I think my wife would have a better idea 😀 ;P

  601. I would put it towards VR fees on the $10k spend requirements on our four new AA Executive cards.

  603. Best tip would be to try call centers a few times for your request before giving up! You never know which nice agent might be able to help you out.

  609. travel tip? Global entry not only speeds you through US immigration but as a trusted traveler you can use TSA pre.

  610. I’d use the $100 to book a stay for my grandparents on their next anniversary who have never been fortunate to have ever stayed at a Starwood property

  611. To pay for partner’s bday dinner..learned the best way to accumulate and use of points/miles…good luck everyone..thnks!

  612. I’ll use the $100 gift card to send thank you notes to each and every member of Gary’s favorite government agency — the TSA.

  613. I would put that hundred toward my summer National Park fund – one of my life lists includes visiting every National Park in the country. Every bit helps. Thanks for all the advice.

  616. My best travel tip: set your watch to the time zone of your destination. It will help your body adjust to the time change during flight and reduce jet lag.

  617. I’ve learned so much from this blog and all the other Boarding Area blogs that it’s easier to answer the question about the gift card… It will go toward some of the required nights for my IHG Win Big promotion! Thanks for all you do…

  620. you’re a good guy
    thanks for being fair always
    and for putting up with people’s whining when it’s not their forum to whine on in the first place

  621. Put it towards a plane trip home to see my parents.
    Double or triple dip your airline purchases with gift cards and airline gift cards when possible.
    I’ve learned that anyone can redeem points but it takes skill to maximize value

  622. I’ve learned that credit card bonuses are where it’s at! I’d apply the $100 to a car rental (we’ve not learned how to get that free yet) on our next trip.

  626. best tip for me was, when my flight got cancelled, you don’t have to just take the option they give you, do some research and you can request to be put on a another airline if that schedule is better for you. Thank you!

  628. I think the most valuable thing has been (and is hopefully ongoing) the top 5 credit card series. Really helps narrow down the potentials and possibilities. Thanks for the giveaway.

  629. Best lesson learned? Read the relevant blogs more frequently.

    Of note: That give away sure generated a lot more responses than normal! Wow.

  633. That’s very nice of you — thank you!

    What you will do with a $100 gift card?
    I’m going to take my family out for dinner! We don’t go out regularly since my mom is a good cook, so it’ll be a treat. 🙂

  640. Thanks, Gary—
    I would look to figure out how to give it away to a good cause, perhaps something netting me some miles too.

  641. I would try to pay our house’s utility bill using evolve money and ask my roommates to pay me back in cash so that I could pay my credit bills.

  642. I could buy something for myself, but it seems more prudent to spend it on the wife. Proceeds to go toward a nice dinner and a show seem reasonable!

  643. I am having baby #2 tomorrow, so I would give the $100 gift card to my friend, who is taking care of our daughter while I deliver. It is the gift I was planning on getting her anyways.

  647. $100 if spent on myself would probably go towards fuel or cell phone bill.

    $100 spent on someone else would mean either a birthday present for a friend or a family member’s wedding present.

  649. Will spend the $100 on our upcoming family vacation to London. Perhaps on our planned train ride through the chunnel!

    thanks

  652. The most important thing I have learned from your blog is the importance of sharing information and “paying things forward” — something you do on a regular basis. I learned about Kiva and the Kiva Lending Team from your blog. I would use a $100 gift card to pay it forward and fund microloans with Kiva. Also, thanks for all you do — we don’t tell you often enough how much we appreciate you.

  657. I’d use the gift card for a weekend getaway that’s desperately needed! I’ve got the points for train and hotel, just need some spending money 🙂

  661. I’ve learnt that following a lot of the offers out there takes a great amount of organization and patience. Great job on the Site.

  663. Best travel tip: hostels are not just for young people, they are great places to meet fellow travelers, and some of them are nicer than hotels.

  666. I would definitely get a stripper depending which country it could one or two ……

    I love this blog for the trip reports

  672. Always bring more chargers & cables for your electronics on a trip than you think you’ll need. You’ll end up using all of them.

  673. I would love to win one of the cards; I’d use it on an upcoming trip to NYC. As for best travel tip, I always take a photo of all of my checked luggage, so if any of it goes astray, I can show a picture rather than try and describe the piece.

    I’ve learned so much on this blog…the most valuable piece of info might be the difference in point values, and where and how to best use various points.

  679. Most valuable thing I have learned is the 100,000 mile BA charge card sign-up, combined with the two for one first-class redemption opportunity—can’t wait to try to book it 11 months in advance!

  680. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog is the excellent value that can be unlocked with the transfer of Ultimate Reward points to United & Hyatt!

  683. My best travel tip is buy a toiletry bag and pack it with all your travel size stuff. It makes packing much quicker!

  684. Thus far, the most useful (and immediately actionable) information I’ve learned on this blog is your ongoing Top 5 credit card series for different banks. I like that you pinpoint quickly the top value each card brings, depending on your goals. Thanks for sharing this information freely.

  685. With the hundred dollar gift card I would buy diapers and baby stuff for my first child! She’ll be here in less than two weeks!!

  686. What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    Use the Chase Business for 5x office supply stores. Through the remodel of my house I’ve been buying $$$$ in gift cards to Home Depot, Bed Bath & Beyond etc at Staples. Amazing point action!

  687. The most important thing I have learned is that people come out of the woodwork when a prize is involved! even a small one.

  689. Absolutely across the board best info you’ve provided–it’s in the details. Whether it’s the nuances of credit card sign ups, knowing what you’re entitled to during IROPS, or how to get a suite in Vegas!

  690. The $100 gift card is too small to drive to Walmart for, so I’ll load it up onto my Amazon account

  692. I have learned so many valuable things from your blog that I could never just choose one, so I will instead say that I would buy a new pair of running shoes with the $100.

  693. Best travel tip? When your plane gets cancelled, call the airline as you walk to the next flight’s gate. Don’t wait in the customer service line at the airport.

  697. The one thing I learned from this blog it to earn and burn. When you got enough miles for an award, use them and dont hold on to them because eventually unless you use your miles, theyre useless sitting in your account.

  700. BEST TRAVEL TIP I know is that it pays dividends to utilize an airport hotel either for arrival and/or departure. Works best for flights that arrive late at night or depart early in the morning. I flew LHR – ARN w/ an 8pm (BA782) into Stockholm. Stayed at the Radisson (Carlson Club) Sky City Arlanda Hotel. Worked out great for jet-lag and was half the cost of central city Stockholm hotels – and came w/ a super breakfast that started serving @ 4:30 AM.

  703. Knowledge and points save money, but always have local currency and amex platinum helipcopter service to get you out of a bind

  704. I think contacting a hotel GM before arriving almost always guarantees better service of some kind and I’ve always had very favorable results doing so.

  708. What you will do with a $100 gift card?
    Take my 94 year old father out for a nice dinner!
    What is the best travel tip you know?
    Travel early in your life and not wait till you’re old!
    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?
    With your tips, each dollar you spend can equate to a free trip or hotel room!

  709. My ravel tip:
    If you are like me and buy a SIM card for your unlocked cellphone while traveling, find out the best place to buy it at your destination. For example, in Johannesburg, South Africa and Buenos Aires DO NOT buy it at the airport, but in San Jose, Costa Rica you should buy it at the airport.

  711. Best travel tip ever: Don’t Panic. Oh-and always know where your towel is. Though that’s more of a life lesson I suppose….

  712. The best travel tip I know is to think carefully about your personal situation and what you want, and not get caught up in the hype surrounding one particular credit card or another. For us, American Airlines miles, British Airways miles, and Hilton – yes, Hilton – points are the most valuable, simply because of the trips we want to take and the things we want to do. Recognizing that, I can form may credit card and spending strategies accordingly, even if it’s tempting to jump on every credit card bonus deal that comes along.

  713. I would use the gift card towards some new luggage for an upcoming trip to France using bonus air miles I learned how to get from your blog.

  718. A public school teacher, just about to go on strike, I’m only dreaming of my next trip….I’d use the money to offset the income I’m going to lose during the strike.

  719. What is the best travel tip you know? Build fluff time into your schedule incase things don’t go smoothly. If they do, then your trip will be more relaxed and you’ll be able to do more with the newfound “free time”.

  724. My tip is for those who are not preCheck with TSA. If you want to avoid taking long flights in dirty socks after going through TSA when you remove your shoes, just carry a pair of paper booties with you to put on. Any medical supply store sells them.

  728. the $100 would be used to pay for my one-way car rental from BWI – PHL as part of my family’s summer trip to Italy and Greece, using United miles to fly on Lufthansa there, and back on Turkish Air into IAD.

  729. I’m losing my job at the end of the month (thanks sequester) so $100 will go towards buying me groceries.

  730. The gift card will buy a couple of admiral club day passes, since I downgraded from Platinum. Best tip: don’t risk loosing a very good fare while waiting for a truly great fare.

  731. I would use the gift card on some nice presents for my friends and family while I’m traveling to China. Best advice: definitely the Global Entry fee credit!

  734. I’ll use the $100 to pay for my hair appointment. It’s one of the few places I don’t get bonus points due to the category! I’ll buy my groceries and travel on my points earning credit cards!

  737. Best travel Advice! Always use a moneybelt!! Use shields on your chip credit cards. Thieves are everywhere, so don’t be a target. From a retired 30 year travel agent, who still loves to travel!

  741. The best tip I’ve received has been about acquiring miles/points thru credit cards applications. Also have loved the Chase Ink Bold and getting gifting cards for 5X.

  745. Your trip reports have given us the courage to choose the best inspirational trip and follow through with selecting the best flights.

  746. I’ve learned too many things from your blog to mention! One important thing I learned was to hang up and call again.

  750. 1. I would use the gift card to offset the massive YQ we experience up in the Great White North

    2. The best travel tip I know is to take your travel budget and add 50% to cover unexpected surprises (great future blog post on managing travel expenses vs points)

    3. The most valuable thing I’ve learned on this blog are the different star alliance redemption routes (and probability of availability).

  751. The most valuable thing I’ve learned is when talking on the phone with reservation agents, sometimes it is best to hang up and call bak in order to find an agent who will help

  757. Always travel w a few alligator paper clamps ( or whatever they r called) to keep your room curtains clamped together to keep ut nice n dark (especially for Intnl teavel!)

  760. best thing i learned was going to australia on US with a free stopover in Asia for 110,000 miles in business

  764. I would use the gift card on travel expenses since this is a travel year for a big birthday and a silver anniversary.
    I learned about Delta’s miles being relatively affordable flying Australia/Asia from the blog.
    My travel tip is to have some form of small snack/granola bar at all times in case of delays especially if there is a possibility there is no suitable place to purchase food or if all my currency has been used up.

  765. If you’re late for a flight and the security line is too long, don’t be shy and walk through the line politely and desperately asking people if they mind if you go in front of them because your flight is taking off in 15 minutes. If you get everyone’s buy in (which I always do), TSA will have no problem letting you go to the front of the line which could make or break you getting on your flight. ALWAYS works for me… In addition always print your boarding pass in the event that your phone battery dies right before you arrive curbside; paper can never run out of batteries 🙂

  767. I’d use the $100 gift card for changing my last United Mileage Plus first class redemption to get on LH first!

  768. Don’t use the old – fashioned coffee brewing machines…flight attendants use them to wash out their panty hose…A current flight attendant told me this.

  769. Best tip: Always carry your keys and your wallet with you, as sometimes even the gate-check bags get left behind!

  770. Not sure what type of gift card, but I’d like to use it toward the cost of my next hyatt or spg hotel stay. Gotta get to work on my 2015 elite status! Thanks for being so generous!

  772. Thank you for the awesome giveaway.

    What would i do with the $100 gift card? To be honest i dont know as of right now but it will def go to a future travel related event and planning.

    Most valuable travel tip i know is maximum on points and taking advantages of vdb and being flexible.

    I would say your post on travelpony personally saved me about $245 around there when i took my recent business trip this weekend.

  773. I’d use the gift card for gas on an upcoming road trip to visit a friend in New Orleans. Thanks for the giveaway!

  774. I’ve learned that my original travel aspirations were too low and have certainly raised the bar spoiling myself in international first class and 5* hotels for free

  775. Step 1. Go to Walmart and load it to my BB.

    Step 2. Write my office lease check with a BB check.

    Step 3. ???

    Step 4. Profit!

  776. Probably the best thing I’ve learned is about how to use stopovers on award tickets. Flying from the Middle East, it’s going to give me a free stopover in Dallas to see my family and then all the way to Hawaii for a wedding, all for the same amount of miles.

  780. I would use the 100$ to buy some cool stuff for my next trip. My best travel tip is to always take at least one pair of extra clothes with your carry on just in case you get delayed or the airlines looses your luggage. And the best thing I learned from your blog is always look for promotions on travel there’s always one out there. Thankx.

  783. Carry to different types of government IDs when you travel and store them separately – this way, if one gets lost or stolen, you have the other to board a plane and get home.

  786. The tips I’ve learned from this blog are invaluable. I especially like the best cards from each bank, it helps with my app o ramas!!

  788. What would i do with $100? I would take my girlfriend out to a special dinner, somewhere i can earn some points via reward network

  790. answering Q#2: we all work hard to get those miles,maximize them,fly the best F classes(yes cause we get picky-nothing bad with that;) but every time i arrive to a wonderful new place i realize that’s what matters the most…not krug,caviar or a ride in a porsche around the tarmac.

  791. Learned first and foremost to protect your credit rating by not going overboard and to be selective with credit cards.

  799. Wow, you got a lot of entries already!

    I’ve learned so much that I don’t even know where to start – but I first read about the Andaz Fifth Avenue and the lemon poppyseed pancakes here – and stay at that hotel often. Also generally the top end hotel redemptions

  800. Gary – what I’ve learned from your blog aside from the points/miles aspect is your take on the travel business in general and the hotel and airline business in particular.

    There’s value in knowing about why or why not something either might or might not happen – not saying you always get it right – but I think I am more informed about things than I would be otherwise

  801. 1. Pay for transit stay at Marriott with $100 gift card.
    2. Look for sweet spots on award charts.
    3. Book US Airways award through agent roulette.

  804. Thanks Gary!
    From your blog, I’ve learned to consider multiple options with different carriers/alliances in order to maximize my miles usage. Thanks for the contest.

  805. I would use the gift card to reimburse myself for the $100 I’m giving to my sons mom for caring for my son while I was in San Diego this weekend. 🙂

  807. What would I do with a $100 gift card? I’d splurge on the new hard side suitcase that I’ve been coveting, but can’t really justify buying. 🙂

  809. I’m a college student – you taught me how to fly LH F through FRA to my semester abroad! Thanks!

  812. The most valuable thing that I learned in this blog is that the almost impossible is possible “DELTA”.

  821. What you will do with a $100 gift card? – use it to help with the expenses of my upcoming trip to CO, TX and VA

    What is the best travel tip you know? – always pack an empty bag to serve as an additional piece of luggage to haul all the stuff you bought at the place you visited

    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog? – four words: “hang up, call again”!

  824. I didn’t know anything about miles and points until I happened upon your blog a year ago. Happily, I can now afford to take more vacations!

  825. Before this blog, I was unaware of the points game and I feel that the points system has showed me what life is all about. The more you give, the more you get.

  826. What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog? I can now travel in a smart & decent way!

  831. What is the best travel tip you know?
    Booking SIA flights using cash and points for the family. Our kids’ account have a few thousand points about to expire but don’t have enough for awards tickets and I realized we can book tickets in SIA using cash+points. However, when booking 3 tickets together, the system only uses points from a single account and it was not possible to book a kid’s ticket separately as since there’s a minimum age requirement. Then I realized I can book the kids’ tickets as “adults” and could use cash+points. To be sure that I don’t get in trouble, I called SIA support and they tried to assist but at the end saying “Go ahead and book them as adults”. Sure enough, SIA was fine with that and we were able to used up almost all the SIA points in each account that were about to expire for cash+points tickets.

  832. I’m going to Russia to take the Trans-Siberian Railway from Moscow to Vladivostok. The gift card will help to offset the crazy summer hotel prices in Russia!

    Thanks, Gary, for the tutorial on booking Meridien Airlines first class to Moscow! Can’t wait to try the hot-tub 🙂

  834. Always carry a plastic garbage with you. The big ones. You won’t believe how many things you can use it for when things go wrong. They only weigh an ounce and take up hardly any romm at all

  836. Ive gotten to know of cash back portals from this blog. Sometimes, the pay out+ points are enough to get 20-25% back from the expense.

  838. I would use the $100 on a trip that I can now take because of this blog. I was new to this and this site has taught me a lot. Also, I learned a quick travel tip: When your suitcase is full, use a garbage bag, vacuum and rubber bands inside of the suitcase and suck the air out. It works every time!

  839. The best thing that I learned from your blog is New Zealand is a crappy place to live in terms of those frequent traveling programmes. Not many good hotel chains, no good credit cards, not many good FFP. Thanks

  840. Best travel tip? Always carry a backpack or small bag and have a sweater or something warm in there; airplanes and airports always differ in temperature.

  842. When traveling, always a use a VPN, especially when logging on any financial websites (banking, PayPal or anything else where you enter in a password).

  843. If you want to burn points most effectively, be flexible about your destination and departure.

  845. Travel tip:
    Always carry an extra pair of a shirt and undergarments in the event of a delay of cancellation.

  849. What you will do with a $100 gift card: Take my son to MIA.

    What is the best travel tip you know? During IRROPS when there’s a huge line to rebook with a gate agent, call the airline and work it out on your cell as you stand in line.

    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog? Hung up, call again.

  850. Best thing I’ve learned is … be nice! If you don’t get the answer you want, HUCA. Sometimes you can get what you want by getting the phone agent on your side with a little bit of extra info. “I want to take my granddaughter to Japan, but I can’t figure out how to do it with _______ miles/points.”

  856. I recently viewed your clip on the $20 buck trick for hotel check in. Want to try some day just to see if it works or not.

  859. My sis is going on her first overseas trip
    Next week. I’d give it to her so she can treat herself to a nice meal…

  860. Hang up call again is the best tip I’ve learned here. Third time was a charm in getting an economy ticket to from the US to the Middle East to price out at 60k US Airways miles.

  863. I’m going to pay it forward and give it to someone who used to work for me and who could use it more than me.

  866. What is the best travel tip I know? Research as much as possible before leaving. Whether it’s a short business trip or a long holiday overseas, I feel so much more confident by preparing in advance so I arrive informed and intelligent. Besides, nefarious ne’er-do-wells can spot confused tourists and target them; by being confident, I *look* confident and this has helped me avoid issues with muggings, assaults or the like.

  868. My dad is in hospice. I’d use t :(e gift card to send a thank you basket from Harry and David’s to the angelic staff caring for him.

  872. I would use the card for a massage when I travel to New Orleans with my husband in a few weeks. I will have some time to occupy while he takes meetings.

  874. It’s still February… all earnings are earmarked for “the man”. I’d deposit my $100 GC into my Bluebird account and then use it to pay taxes, of course!

  875. Go online and review your upcoming United award trips regularly. The computers will make changes and maybe you’ll be notified, maybe not. Two changes on an upcoming trip created a 20-minute connection between flights in separate terminals at O’Hare and a 40-hour layover at an intermediate stop in Europe which would have forced me to miss a prepaid tour and hotel night. Fortunately I was able to get an alternate routing rebooked when I found the changes, which they didn’t notify me about.

  877. I will donate it to my friend Robin whose son Ben is having heart surgery and has to travel from FL to Ohio for the surgery.

  884. I would use a $100 gift card to buy my two new grandbabies something. My best travel tip is to relax and enjoy the journey. And, the most important thing I’ve learned is that there are a lot more people reading this blog than some of the others on BA.

  890. I’m in southern India right now and I learned about the Grand Chollah from this blog–staying there this weekend. Am overwhelmed by the surrounding poverty. En route discovered a marvelous vet that is helping street dogs. This money would go straight to his place,the Arc, where it can do great good!

  891. I’d use that $100 to pick up some otherwise hard-to-find in-New England Passive Aggressive wine when in Portland, OR, later this week–plus a coffee or two at Stumptown, of course.

  895. I would use if for a donation to the local food pantry. If your kids don’t actually help you take the items there, they don’t realize it ever happened. I want my children to be able to empathize with those in need.

    You best piece if advise: hang up and call back!

    Thank you.

  896. First off, I think any service industry resource needs to be properly trained and held accountable when that training fails.

    As for the $100, I would use it to pay the fees associated with using United Award Miles for a flight from Frankfurt to Rome.

  898. I have an anniversary coming up soon – there is a restaurant that I would like to try but never had becase of the cost

  903. I have learnt way too much from this blog and continuously look forward to it to keep me inspired on my passion for travel adventures and experiences. Besides HUCA, your best advice without being an advice has been to always be fair. This give away is a prime example of that. The $100 goes in my trip to see my mother for her upcoming birthday.

  904. $100 bucks to pay lounges to rest between long flights.

    Best travel tip I know: Ask nicely before enter the plane for an emergency seat (more space)and if its denied ask later again to the attendant inside the plane

    Most valuable thing from this blog: Being NICE with over stress airline workers get you more results than being a jerk

  905. I’d use the gift card during my upcoming trip to New York. The hotel is covered by award points but the gift card would come in handy for meals.

  906. WOW 900+ comments.

    Best travel tip learned from this blog: Hang up and call again (to an extent)…

    Also, how to maximize points and rewards!

  907. My tip: You will only ever use half of what you pack. after my wife packs, I ask her to remove half of everything in her bag (and it’s still not a carry-on!).

  908. Travel tip: use you camera phone to take pictures of parking spots, hotel, luggage, luggage tags, passport and anything else you might lose or have difficulty finding.

  909. What you will do with a $100 gift card?
    – use it for my upcoming trip to Israel, I’m taking my parents and any help counts.

    What is the best travel tip you know?
    – If you’re patient and courteous to those who serve you, your life is easier on the road.

    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?
    – Take advantage of sign ups and bonuses because once they’re gone, you might be out of luck.

  910. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from reading the blog is to keep reading the blog. I would use the $ for a Spring break trip home for my nephew’s birthday.

  913. The best travel tip I’ve learned is to never stop following the travel blogs like yours, even when you think you’re out of the game. There’s always something new happening.

  919. Expecting our first mini-traveler next month – we’d love to use the $100 towards baby’s first passport!

  920. I would use the giftcard to pay for a part of a hotel night on my upcoming trip to Portland and Seattle. Turns out, there are not many chain hotels near Crater Lake.

  921. I know someone whose 55 year old husband has an inoperable malignant brain tumor and their medical bills and copays are thousands of dollars a month. I will give the gift card to her as a small token of encouragement. I will give you her name, postal address and email if my name is drawn so that you can send the giftcard directly to her. This is not an attempt to look ‘holier than thou’ but rather I want to help Christine in any way I can.

  924. I’d use a gift card for our upcoming trip to Wisc for a friend’s wedding and house hunting for us as we plan to move from PHX to Wisconsin this summer

  925. The most valuable thing(s) I learned from your blog is the 100,000 sign-up bonuses for the Chase BA Visa and Citi AA World Executive MC. And the companion passes that I have earned by spending $30,000 on the Chase BA Visa.

  927. I would use a 100$ gift card to take my sister and I out to dinner on our upcoming trip to the Keys.

    As for a blog, to just keep reading it. I learn so much i can’t point to one thing.

  928. I’ve learned to never put my car and house keys in my checked bag. My bags have been delayed for a few days more lately.

  929. I would use the gift card for my upcoming trip to Key West which I paid $50 for on the Delta glitch

  930. The most valuable thing I’ve learned is to use British Avios for short domestic hops! We’re going to DC for 5 days, two people, 18,000 Avios and $10.00!

  934. Best thing I’ve learnt? How accessible this game is to everyone! Since I started, my fiancee and I have been to Spain, Hawaii, Israel, Jordan, Mexico, and on several domestic trips. It would not have been possible without you!

    Just got approved for the AAdvantage World Elite MasterCard. The fun continues!

  935. I learned the hard way to always make reservations for things you really want to do when traveling. You never know when the restaurant or tour you are really interested in will be sold out. Many, especially restaurants, can be cancelled without penalty later, so why wait?

  936. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from your site has to be the benefit I’ve had from all your research comparing cards. I used your research to get sign-up bonuses and extra miles – enough to help pay for 3 of us to go to Australia last summer. Huge savings!

  938. I would put that 100 toward my summer trip to visit my sister who I miss very much.I have never been in a plain…and at my age…that is just sad….so I will be flying for my first time this summer. 🙂 THANK YOU

  939. I would use the gift card on a vacation to California. Best advise I’ve received is to bring an outlet to the airport so that you can always connect your computer at the gate.

  940. I would use it towards hotel stay for my upcoming trip to San Francisco. Also, I’m impressed with how many people have left comments. You have a lot of followers and we actually read what you have to say!

  941. If the gift cards are generic (Visa, MC, etc) they would go towards paying airfare for my NYC trip in May.

  942. What you will do with a $100 gift card?
    A: Apply it to upcoming travel expenses.

    What is the best travel tip you know?
    A: Take a moment to search online for discount codes and you will often find one that will save you considerable money on your hotel, car rental, addmission fees, etc.

    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    Too many to count. I especially like the trip reports as they give me ideas for my own itineraries.

  943. Hubby and I are headed to Waikoloa Village on the Big Island soon, and I’d your give-away to help cover the valet parking expenses there.

  944. Will use the card to pay for a hotel for our upcoming trip to Western Canada. Travel tip – bring lot of US 1 bills – I use them for tipping in foreign countries. Never been rejected yet. You have way to many contacts and give away many good prizes.

  946. In case of flight disruption, always be proactive and find solutions before airline propose you flights that you don’t want to have. Having a back up plan makes agent job easier and more efficient!

  948. We are headed to O’ahu and would use the give-away for sushi dinner at the Hyatt Regency Japengo’s!

  951. I would use the gift card to help pay for some of my wedding expenses. The best travel tip I know is to be flexible and spontaneous. I have learned some valuable tips on award booking.

  954. The most important thing I’ve learned is to be grateful for the opportunities to earn lots of points and travel free. To be slightly obsessed but not so much as to get stressed.

  959. I’ve learned to always behave nicely even if you are asking for an upgrade to which you are entitled. Of course, sometimes $20 helps as well.

  960. One of the best tips I’ve learned is to call American Airlines if you change your original flight and had put in for an upgrade. By calling AA, you can be sure that you can have the upgrade request restored to the original date of ticket purchase – not the date of the change in schedule.

  963. I would love it if you gave one of the cards to the grad student because grad school is expensive and they need all the help they can get.

    But for the second card, my mom has been through cancer and back surgery last year, so now that she’s feeling better, I’d like to take her for a long weekend on Amelia Island, Florida. One night will be paid using my Marriott Free Night certificate that I got because Gary mentioned the Marriott Visa 70,000 signup bonus (even though he didn’t get any credit from our signing up). So the $100 would apply nicely toward the second night.

    My travel tips — use newspaper bags to pack your shoes and search for discount codes before you buy anything, including travel, and do your homework!

  964. Ladies, get your hair cut into a simple style before traveling. Something that doesn’t require a bunch of gadgets and styling products. Lightens your load and makes it quick in the mornings to get out and explore on your awesome travel adventure!!!

  965. $100 means I can take the Amtrak next time I travel on a weekend trip instead of smelly Chinatown buses!

  966. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog is how to control the temperature in any hotel room. Thanks!

  967. I would use the $100 towards a trip to Disney World. (My four year old has started paying waaay too much attention to commercials on TV lately).

  969. Best Travel Tip

    When going to Mexico wear a hat or T-shirt from the area your going to. The time share people will leave you alone knowing you have been there before.

  971. I would use the $100 gift card to buy my American friend’s beer in Portland (when I’m there for the first time in May).

  975. I would take my fiancé out to a celebratory dinner for getting a new job and for us moving to London!

  976. I’d take my husband out to a nice restaurant. We rarely go out due to my health and diet restrictions, poor guy has been suffering.

  980. I would use the gift card towards lift tickets for a weekend in VT, to make use of the mental amount of snow this year in NYC.

  981. What you will do with a $100 gift card? – use it on my Danube River Cruise trip coming up.
    What is the best travel tip you know? – always carry bubble wrap and baggies.
    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog? – hang up and call again for FFY travel, and it has worked. I had to book a trip to Italy almost segment by segment before it was done.

  982. Best tip I’ve learned from this blog is how to use credit cards to maximize my miles. In the fall I blew 250,000 BA miles on an awesome Asia trip — despite having not set foot on BA metal since 1997!

  984. My best travel tip is for when taking a long international flight that leaves early morning… Stay awake all night so you can sleep on the plane and already begin adjusting to the time change. This applies regardless of the class of service you’re flying.

  985. Always pack immodium when traveling. It really sucks having bathroom issues when you are stuck in a remote area – like hiking the Inka Trail to Machu Picchu!

  991. The #1 tip I’ve learned on this blog is the VIP override on hotel thermometers! That has improved my quality of life significantly. Thanks 🙂

  993. What you will do with a $100 gift card?

    Use it to pay my cell phone bill to free up cash for travel.

    What is the best travel tip you know?

    Wear a shirt with a pocket on it while flying, and store anything small needed on my flight in that pocket.

    What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?

    How useful BlueBird can be.

  994. One hundred dollars to pay for another AF on my CSP card. My best advice even though specific and not general was your first or only trip to Rome book downtown and not in the ‘burbs’. Thought about booking at the Crowne Plaza but switched to Westin Excelsior. Great decision. My wife loved it as did I.

  995. My favorite travel tip is to always travel with a mini power strip. (1) In an airport with two few power outlets this increases the likelihood that you’ll get power (since you can share an outlet someone is already using. (2) It means you only need a single power outlet converter when traveling in a foreign country.

  997. The most valuable thing I have learned is how to wrest control of a hotel room’s thermostat! With a simple video to boot!

  1000. I’ll spend the $100 of course, probably on my upcoming trip to Aruba.

    Favorite tip is to always be flexible, it’s amazing how much difference a week can make in the cost of airfare/hotels.

    Best thing I’ve learned from the blog would just be to remain flexible and there will always be a way out of any given situation, typically to my benefit.

  1001. probably save it for future vacation funds, and the best tip i got was to make a speculative booking pre hyatt devaluation. locked in the Paris Vendome and was able to add a night and even move the dates without the extra cost. would also probably be the best thing I learned is to jump on something when it’s present and not to wait

  1005. 1. Use the money towards a chainsaw so I can clean up my yard after all that this winter has done.
    2. a)always bring Clif Bars b) stop caffeine 4 – 5 days before an overseas flight and start again the morning of your arrival time zone.
    3. During IRROPS use all available resources simultaneously (call, stand in line, look online…).

  1006. We’d use the gift card for our trip this summer. The most impressive thing I’ve taken away from reading VFTW is the amount of quality posts you are able to tackle each and everyday. Maybe it’s because you get to spend lots of time sitting in airport lounges, planes, and hotels. Regardless, it’s still impressive.

  1009. My netbook that I took on all my travels recently broke and so i would spend the voucher to help me get a new pad/laptop to take with me to help document and capture the places i go…

  1013. If you don’t like the answer you’re getting from the airline awards desk, hang up and call back.

  1015. The best travel tip I know is to pack about 2/3 of the stuff that you want to pack, especially if it’s your first of any specific type of trip.

  1017. Had a standard size car booked at Tampa Airport through Costco for $175 for a week, a good price. However, they were trying to give us a 2013 Chrysler as a standard car and we were not happy with that. At time of reserving, a full size car, a 2014 Ford Fusion, was only $10 more for the week. But at the counter, they wanted $80 more for the week to upgrade at the counter. Using my smart phone online, at the counter, I was able to get a rate for that exact time for $125 for the week for the full size Fusion! In the end, their uncooperative behavior saved me a nice little chunk of change. The advice is that with car rental prices being so fluid, check again, online, at the counter when checking in. And Costco has the lowest car rental prices by far in my experience.

  1019. I would spend the $100 on an upcoming trip to London. First trip in 8 years and first time to London since I was 14 yrs old and I am not 50.

    The best travel tip I know is to keep calm and rise above it when things go awry. A smile and kind word usually helps improve things in any situation.

    From your blog, which is a new discovery for me, I have learned how much valuable info is available – things I never knew I need to know. Looking forward to learning and using your advice as I plan for my next trip which is December of this year. I appreciate all your travel experience and feel fortunate to be able to learn from you.

  1020. Points and miles are everywhere if you are just willing to put a little time into making it all come together.

  1023. Most valuable thing I’ve learned:
    A well planned trip is so much more fun, and investing some time in learning the tips and tricks and help alleviate any last minute emergencies.

  1027. Hi!

    Id use in on a vacation to Austin that im trying to book real soon.
    Using British Avios from LA to Hawaii for only 12.5k avios each way.
    You taught me about thr companion pass Southwest offers which im currently waiting to get!:)

    Thanks! !

  1028. Thanks for the giveaway!
    I will use the $100 gift card to get a keyboard for my partner’s iPad, so that we don’t need to lug our laptop during travel.

  1031. My laptop was just stolen, so I’d use the $100 towards a new one. Thanks for your blog, Gary! You’ve taught me a lot over the years, most importantly the foundation of free travel through credit card churning. Looking forward to more years to come!

  1033. Hi Gary – thank you for this very generous offer. I have to be honest I would probably use the gift card to buy dress cloths for work or use it for my upcoming wedding. The one thing that has been the most valuable things I have learned from your blog is the endless possibilities that miles and points provide. The best travel tip I have is to use SPG hotel points in Europe where the room rates are very high – especially London and Paris. I find it best to use the fifth night free SPG redemption to maximize your points when staying at hotels. Thank you for taking the time to share your tips and posts each and every day. I truly look forward to reading them all. I also like when you talk about some of the tools out there to book awards, such as the KVS tool. I find that type of knowledge invaluable. Thank you again for all your insights and effort you take to make this blog such a valuable asset in the travel community.

  1034. I’m a handful of American miles away from having enough for a Cathay Pacific ticket to Hong Kong (a dream since starting to read your blog). I’d use it to buy those miles with the current Aadvantage bonus miles when buying miles promo… and make the trip a reality!

  1036. I’ve learned way too much from this blog to post everything, but I would use the $100 toward the status match program with USAIR as I make the transition from Delta. 🙂

  1037. My ultimate travel tip is to pack one carry-on only and bypass checking luggage. This has saved me so much time and hassle at airports!

  1038. Many valuable tips, but my favorite was how to get Star Alliance Gold through the Aegean program. That was an easy way to get into the premium lanes and get free lounge access. Thanks, Gary!

  1039. Best travel tip I know: Always travel with a smile! A smile is not only universally understood, but a simple smile to a complete stranger can help to brighten their day! 🙂

  1040. Well since I am currently suffering from acute bronchitis, all the money will go towards my drugs for recuperation. Exciting, ne?

  1043. I have learned about focusing on the marginal benefit/gain (and cost) from using miles, rather than just on the total gain/cost.

  1052. The most valuable thing I learned : cost of different miles; hang up, call back; and keep asking!

  1053. I don’t get it. I was wrongly billed twice by Westin Chicago back in July, and had to call them a few times to follow up to get a refund. It ended up with me losing out a few dollars due to the currency exchange. I asked for SG points and I get none. Not even a reply email to say no.

    And then I read here that you get SPG points for a complain. >_<

  1055. I will use the $100 giftcard to upgrade my hotel room in Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens when the whole family travel there in April.

  1058. What I’ve learned most from your blog isn’t any specific trick but rather your sensible attitude to keep things in perspective and literally enjoy the ride. Don’t sweat the small stuff, and have fun. Way to go!

  1061. I’ve learned to always always always always ALWAYS make sure that multi-carrier awards are ticketing properly 🙂

  1063. “What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this blog?”

    Churning! You basically taught me how to actually get into this whole crazy game. Thank you!

  1065. I am taking my son after his first year in college on a trip to Europe using frequent flyer miles…the gift card would help defray costs there..

  1066. Pay the registration fee ($180) for one of my son’s good friends so they can play in same rec soccer league. Parents are struggling and the kid wants to play. I will send you the receipt.

  1073. A tip that has saved me thousands of miles: Recheck your itinerary EVERY DAY after booking an award flight with Southwest. Routes often drop drastically in price and making changes is free!

  1075. Best travel tip is buy a portable phone recharging battery. Really small ones available at the airport.

  1079. Taking my husband to DC for the first time. $100 would be put towards a nice dinner out (without the baby!).

  1081. I would use the $100 towards the remaining costs of the very first “first class” Asia trip I booked using all the tricks I learned from your blog!

  1082. I learned from your blog I could travel more for less. You taught me how to earn miles quickly and fulfill my passion to travel, in ways I never thought possible. Thank you!

  1083. The most important thing is call back to get a more favorable response to anything. $100 would go towards my upcoming Cancun trip.

  1084. Best travel tip: never book any reservations without looking for a promo or discount code on the net

  1086. I would use the $100 gift card to pay for travel expenses to LA for two upcoming weddings in March. Thanks.

  1090. What is the best travel tip you know?

    Install the app named photo translator on your smartphone, so that you can take a picture and translate whatever word on it. Pretty useful when travelling some non english countries.

    Cheers，

  1091. I’d use the $100 bucks to buy gas so that I could get to Office Depot to buy more gift cards at 5x.

  1092. Best travel tip – if you are going to Japan and plan to do extensive travelling, please buy a Japan Rail (JR) pass before leaving your home country (geared for foreign visitors, can only be purchased outside of Japan). You will save a bundle and get to travel in comfort in one of the most amazing mode of transportation, the Shinkansen (bullet train).

  1094. Hi. I would put the $100 towards my 1yr old son’s first holiday in June. We would never gave been able to afford it without the info and advice from this blog. You have helped me to be very savvy with my miles, in particular making use if the free one way extra leg with AA when flying via a gateway city. My tip is be kind, courteous and polite to the telephone agent and you often get fees waived. I’ve changed a flight a few times and avoided booking/amendment fees with a few airlines 🙂

  1097. I would tuck the $100 gift card away and save for an upcoming trip to Florida, and use it for activities or a nice meal out.

  1100. The best thing I’ve learned from VFTW is that even though I was only flying 20-30K miles a year, I could (and can for a little while longer) get free access to US Airways’ own lounges by crediting a handful of long US Airways flights to Aegean. Thanks, Gary!

  1102. I’ll use it when I’ll visit Turkey this May. $100 will go a long way since Europe is so expensive!

  1106. What I’ve learned is too vast to mention. Seeing the eyes of other travelers light up when They start reading your blog for the first time, after I suggest they check it out.

  1111. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog is the importance of reading to keep my knowledge current!

  1113. Hi Gary- Thanks for the chance to win. I’d use the gift card for our next family trip this summer to the southwest!

  1114. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from this blog is that no matter how much I think I know about travel, there is always more to learn!

  1116. About 3 or 4 years ago, I was clueless about credit card bonuses. About a million miles later, I stop in to read your suggestions on a daily basis! Thanks!

  1118. I’d use the $100 on a purchase for which I don’t get bonus points or miles with any of my existing credit cards

  1121. I’d use the $100 to offset some costs on my upcoming trip to Belgium and the Netherlands. And the most important thing I’ve learned from you? You can never stop learning new things in the world of miles and points – it’s a constantly evolving landscape.

  1124. $100! It’s money!!! It will be a difficult task, but I know that somehow I could figure out how to use it!

    I love your postings. You constantly alert me to deals, offers, insider information. I’m not a pro, I’m just an occasional traveler who learns a lot from you. Thanks.

  1127. I’ve learned to hang up and call again and not have any bad feelings about it.

    Once when trying to get to JFK (I was stuck in traffic on the expressway) I called UA and told them I was going to SMF but would take SFO from LGA or JFK. I think I broke the agent. A redial and I was off to LGA on a flight to SFO.

  1131. I will put it to good use in my travels.

    I always check for alternative parking in big cities where parking at hotels is outrageous.

    Have learned lots of neat tricks here over the years.

  1134. Most valuable thing I’ve learned…keep reading this blog because it’s giving me some really great pointers on how to gain more miles and how to save miles!

  1135. Use it to fly to visit my best friend at LAX

    Use SW Points to book trips you aren’t 100% about, since they are fully refundable.

    Avios are great for no close in booking fees for emergencies.

  1136. There is a small, struggling zoo about an hour from Las Vegas that just finished doing a fundraiser. I’d use the gift card to add to that total raised, to donate food for the various critters.

  1137. The most valuable thing that I learned was the Capital One would also do a buisness card. During the 100k promotion that was a great thing to know!

  1139. Most valuable thing I have learned is the “Hang up, call back” method for dealing with airlines over the phone.

  1143. I will use the $ to buy VRs. During IRROPS take advantage of 24 hour holds/fee-free refunds. Save miles for C/F redemptions.

  1148. Earn and burn! Because you never know when your points will be worth less than they are right then.

  1149. Best Gary tip – for domestic travel forget using points- don’t. Use a cash rebate card like the Barclay Priceline Visa with a 2% cash rebate. $15000 in spend gives you enough to buy a $300 ticket.

  1151. Travel tip: take full advantage of relaxed change fees during weather conditions to get the flight you really wanted

  1158. I would use the $100 towards my future trip to Italy! There’s lots to spend 100 dollars on…

  1162. best travel tip..take along small ballons and some string to give to children as you travel. Best gift in the world is a child’s smile.

  1168. I’ve learned to closely look at the Delta website when i check in–today I received a free upgrade to Economy Plus on one segment and then to 1st class on the second segment!

  1178. The most important thing for me about your blog is the example you set of not being too greedy, too excitable, or too entitled. This hobby seems to put us all at risk for these traits.

  1181. I’d use the $100 gift card to help support an upcoming conference trip this July. I’m a graduate student without financial support for this trip (where I’ll schmooze and self-market to get a job!) and every little bit helps.

    What I’ve learned? Being reasonable brings great rewards!

  1182. Because I love to travel and hate the noise, the $100 would go towards new noise cancelling headphones. My best traveling tip is sign up for Global Entry. Even if you do little traveling abroad, it will get you through TSA check if you add the Trusted Traveler number to your airline profile and have View From the Wing updates sent to your email. I love knowing the latest tips so I can cash in on the best deals.

  1184. Give the card to my brother, who has a non profit that works with desperately poor in Tanzania and Cambodia. He just spent $2100 to fly to Tanzania to deal with an emergency. He doesn’t qualify for a lot of credit cards….so no miles for him.

  1186. I would use the $100 gift card to take my fiancee out to dinner for her birthday next month. Thanks very much!

  1187. No doubt–I’d use the $100 to help pay for our upcoming family trip to Disneyland….time with my wife & daughter is the best investment I’ll ever make!

  1188. It’s not one thing that I’ve learned from your blog, but multiple items, for example: 1) The seemingly never-ending list of “unique” partners and ways to use miles and points, 2) warning of forthcoming program devaluations and options to use those points (I zeroed out my Wyndham Rewards account about two years ago after the last deval, so I wasn’t impacted by the recent one), 3) The insight into award and credit card programs (“The Ultimate Guide to AAdvantage Rules” and only using my Chase Explorer card for car rentals), and 4) simple, awesome things like how to override a hotel room thermostat! The list is endless.

  1189. Most valuable thing I have learned is the free stopover at the North American gateway on AA reward tickets – effectively getting two tickets for one mileage price.

  1191. My number one tip to all travelers, no matter where they’re flying or whatever hotel they’re checking into….”Be extra nice to the person at your gate or to the hotel clerk checking. You will be amazed at what they can do for you just because you’re nice to them.

  1192. Best travel advice: No matter where you go, how you go, what the weather is, take a scarf/wrap. It can block the sun, become a towel, take the chill off, carry things, become an attractive accessory, it is small and light… Perfect companion!

  1193. I’d use it toward a trip for my wife to visit her brother who has become paralyzed from the waist down.

  1194. The most valuable thing I’ve learned is to always check your blog before applying for a new credit card (and to trust your link if there’s no landing page).

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