TMtravelworld

If you happen to visit this blog, please go to

2009-12-15T23:37:00.001-05:00

http://boardingarea.com/blogs/tmtravelworld

Finally, I don't need to use Proxy o to access blogspot

2009-06-30T11:44:00.002-04:00

China has blocked blogspot and many other websites recently, so I have to use Proxy to access, which is not so convenient.

Just left china to US then Europe for next months, no need to use proxy anymore.

25K RT from UK to various destinations on Virgin Atlantic.

2009-06-21T08:46:00.003-04:00

for 25K, you can travel to NY, DC, Orlando, LA, Boston, Dubai and Nariobi.

for 37.5K you can go to Babados and 45K to Shanghai

Premuim Economy also dicounted by 20%

Detail is here

Free Hyatt Platinum status and fast track to Diamond

2009-06-21T08:43:00.003-04:00

Found this promotion via flyertalk today, you need to sign up btw now and Aug 31st, 2009 and receive a free Platinum status valid for 120 days.

To keep ur Platinum status until 2011, you need to have 5 nights stay within 120 days of enrollment.

To achieve diamond status untill 2011, you need to have 15 nights stay within 120 days of enrollment.

Existing member must call to signup.

Hyatt summer promotion is here(not that great)

2009-06-14T21:58:00.002-04:00

Hyatt just announced their summer promotion, 2500 bonus points per stay with mastercard.

Not that great compared to FFN that SPG and Priority club are offering.

Delta/Avis 5K offer!

2009-06-14T21:51:00.003-04:00

From now through July 31st, earn 5K bonus Delta miles at participating Avis Airport Location for rental 2 days or longer up to 5 rentals. Use coupon code MUAA088

Detail can be found here

Earn 10000 bonus miles on ur favoriate airlines

2009-06-09T18:35:00.002-04:00

You need register and book before Sep 10, 2009 and stay before Oct 10, 2009 at three diff brands from Wyndham rewards program such as days inn, super 8, travelodge.

detail is here.

If u stay before July 31st, and put miles into Us air, you can earn 50% extra bonus. detail is here for us air promotion

50% Us airways bonus miles when u stay at hotel or transfer hotel points to US airway

2009-05-27T15:27:00.002-04:00

You have to register first, then transfer/stay ur hotel points/car to US airways.

keep in mind that, US airway does not block *A redemption and have better award chart than UA.

Do it before July 31st,2009

Discount award redemption to Canada on United

2009-05-27T15:24:00.002-04:00

For only 20K miles, you can redeem a coach award seat on United to Canada.

You must book by June 21, 2009 for travel until Sep 2nd,2009.

Detail is here

ATT Wifi Premuim membership is an awasome deal!

2009-05-26T02:26:00.002-04:00

Wifi connections in Europe are every expensive at hotels, one day may cost you 30+ euro, sign up this ATT Wifi Premuim membership for only 19.99 per month with 1 year contract, you can get unlimited wifi service with free roaming on thousans of international locations.

Many roaming services are provided by ipass.

Although I had some diffculty on first time using it, it's working very well after I figure out how the connection sofeware works.

Bus, Bus, Bus eveywhere!!!!

2009-05-26T02:23:00.002-04:00

For many years, I always thought taking the transfer bus from gate to aircraft only exist in some developing countries, I was wrong. In Europe, almost every flight I took need to use bus even in airlines' hub and they are not budget airlines. I am so sick of it!!!

US has the cheapest gas price!

2009-05-24T10:24:00.002-04:00

I am currently in Europe now, one liter of gas cost approx 1 euro. the car I am driving has 80 liters gas tank. so a full tank of gas will cost 80 euro, approx 110 USD

In US, with a tank of 20 gallon and 2.5 per gallon, full tank will cost only 50 USD

US dollar is on its way to become toilet paper again

2009-05-21T14:40:00.003-04:00

Just two months ago, US dollar was relatively strong, which makes international trip a lot cheaper.
now it is heading down SHARPLY

today 1 Euro = 1.39 USD, 1 pound=1.58USD

little modification on trip below

2009-05-20T22:08:00.002-04:00

prg-bud-vce(open jaw)

cdg(stopover)-hel(stopover)-arn(stopover)-hel-waw(stopover)-bud(stopover)-tsr(stopover)-prg

even better

Distance based award chart are not bad at all!

2009-05-15T11:07:00.003-04:00

I always thought using distance based awards are big waste to my miles until I am planning this circle Europe Trip using AA oneworld OW35Y chart. you can fly up to 4000 miles and 16 segments with stopover at every city(u can only stopover once and transit twice at same city) for 35K miles in Economy.

The new rule includes all flying miles in the mileage calculation, but still not that bad. Here is my plan:

prg-bud-cdg(open jaw)mxp(stopover)-hel(stopover)-arn(stopover)-hel-waw(stopover)-bud(stopover)-prg

total flying miles 3994.

Also score 2 cheap tickets from LAX-FRA in summer

2009-05-14T10:13:00.003-04:00

one leaving July return Aug on UA from LAX-FRA for 427 all in because of double miles promotion from Elite choice promotion last year

another one leaving Aug return SEP on AA for 540 all in, upgraded already cleared all the way to FRA for both direction.

really like being an AA EXP better than UA 1K now, International Upgrade can be done on most class and no upgrade instrument is needed for domestic upgrade

Will enjoy my entire summer in Europe. Maybe some side trips to Africa.

redeemed few more trip using BMI miles

2009-05-14T10:03:00.003-04:00

trip 1 PEK-HKG(Stopover)-MUC-PRG on CA and LH business class, total 18750 miles+410 taxes and fees.
trip 2 PRG-FRA-JFK(stopover)-PHX-LAS on LH and US business class, total 18750+ 440 USD taxes and fees.

I know taxes and fees are expensive, but only 37500 miles +850USD in business class for a trip like this, I think it's good deal!

About Emirates skywards Program.

2009-05-13T12:10:00.003-04:00

Although u can put miles into UA program, Emirates own program is better than UA if u fly Emirates a lot.

You will earn 2500/3500/5000 for Econ/Busi/First class bonus miles after ur first flight with them.
You will earn 20%/50%/100% for Econ/Busi/First class bonus miles if book online.

In addition, they have double miles promotion currently running on LOTS of flights.

so a roundtrip from PEK-SFO via DXB in Economy class will earn u 2500(signup)+23954(flying)+23954(double miles promotion)+4791(online booking bonus)=54479 miles.

ALL class(except award ticket) earning 100% EK miles.

You will become Silver with 25K miles flying or Gold with 50K miles and will earn 25% bonus as silver or 50% as Gold.

In term of spending miles, the best way to use them is to upgrade ur Flight, remeber, ALL PAID CLASS can be upgraded with MILES

All information can be found here

marriott Free nights promotion, but.....

2009-05-13T11:41:00.002-04:00

it is a very bad promotion. unless u have to stay with Marriott, there is no reason to stay for this promotion.

EXPECTING Hyatt FASTER FREE NIGHT promotion in June

Log in ur marriott account ,you will see this promotion, register before June 30th and stay three times btw June 1 to August 31, 2009, earn one free night valid for cat 1-4 until Dec 31st,2009.

Emirates Airline offers crazy cheap ticket worldwide via Dubai

2009-05-13T07:51:00.002-04:00

Emirates is having super cheap ticket available from PEK/PVG.

eg PEK/PVG-JFK/SFO/LAX via DXB 4100 Chinese yuan.

PEK/PVG-MUC/CDG 300-450 USD

and many more.

if u are not member of its Frequent flyer program, u can put ur miles to UA, all class earn 100% Redeemable miles, but no Elite qualify miles.

Personally, I think signup for its skywards program is a better option.

NWA increased intra-Asia/Africa business class award!

2009-05-11T09:31:00.002-04:00

Without notifying anyone, NWA increased intra-Asia business class award from 30K-40K and intra-Africa business award from 50K to 100K!!!!!

This is a very bad move!!

Significant change on AA award redemption

2009-05-11T07:19:00.002-04:00

Per discussion on flyertalk.com, effective now, you can not have stopover on any award ticket, any stopover will be priced with additional one way miles within the zone except international
awards originating in North America, where one stopover is still permitted
in North America Gateway city

However, member can redeem one way travel for half of round trip miles

Priority Club Q2 free night promotion is here

2009-04-24T11:47:00.003-04:00

You need to register here first, then reserve and stay, earn 1 free night for every 2 nights for max 4 free nights from May4 – 3 july 2009 and redeem from July 3-dec 26,2009

However, one thing u need to be careful

You will not earn any points/miles on any charges once u register for this promotion, even after u max out all 8 nights, so if you think you will earn more than max points during the promotional period, don't register for it.

NWA earn up to 10K bonus via WorldPerks Mall

2009-04-24T11:42:00.001-04:00

The detail of promotion is here, you will earn 1K bonus on each transaction from selected partners for up 10K in addition to regular miles from April 24 to June 30, 2009.

So if you have a large purchase, divide them into small one

banyan tree Ringa

2009-04-23T10:49:00.005-04:00

The banyan tree Ringa is located in a local Tibet village, 20 mins outside of shangri la town in yunnan Province, some hotel villas were even coveted from local Tibet home.

The view is stunning, and will be even better in May. the tempture different is huge during the day. I still didn't feel warm enough even after I turned all 7 Air conditions on. since the location is more than 3000 meters above sea level, I kept waking up at night due to highland effect.

Here are some photos from hotel

View from yard

bath room

Hot pot dinner

NWA is running similar partner bonus promotion

2009-04-23T07:54:00.000-04:00

you need to register here, then do the partner activities before June 22nd, 2009 to earn bonus.

You can register both NWA and Delta and earn bonus on each, but NWA is harder than delta due to fewer partners.

Some pictures from world tallest hotel-Park Hyatt Shanghai

2009-04-22T13:54:00.009-04:00

I stayed in Feb, but I am too busy with many thinsg recently, so no time for me to even organize hundreds of photo for past month trip. Anyway, finally got some time to do it.

The hotel and building are owned by Japanese, so everything is very similar to Park Hyatt Toyko. The highest floor you can go in hotel is 93rd, above that, u need to pay and enter from world financial building.

View from room, but weather was very bad in Shanghai

very comfortable bed, but not as good as Park Hyatt Toyko.

Delta Partner Activities Bonus Promotion is here again

2009-04-22T11:04:00.003-04:00

you need to register here first btw April 22 and June 22, 2009, then complete partner activities to get up to 25K bonus

Unique Partner Activities Bonus Miles Awarded
4 4,000
6 6,000
8 8,000
15 15,000
25 25,000

I am planning to get 4 partners each for our accounts, they are

e-rewards transfer, online shopping, SPG transfer and dining.

easy miles

Hilton loyalty makreting is ridiculous

2009-04-21T08:13:00.004-04:00

Whenever a hotel chain running system wide promotion, it will clearly note the eligible rate for the promotion.

Hilton are just doing the opposite, they don't tell u the eligible rate for the promotion and try to trick their customer. Like the triple miles promotion they are running now, there is no where saying the eligible rate for the promotion. Someone on flyertalk received a reply from Senior Loyalty Specialist, they are currently more than 100 rate plan don't count for promotion.

PAG, PA1, PA2, PA3, CPAGS0
CIS, CIA, CIB, CIC, CCISS0
HEW, HE1, HE2, HE3, CHEWS0
ORA, OR1, OR2, OR3, CORAS0
CHV, CH1, CH2, CH3, CCHVS0
CSC, CC1, CC2, CC3, CCSCS0
HBH, HB1, HB2, HB3, CMCKS0
DOW, DO1, DO2, DO3, CDOWS0
MRO, M2A, M3A, M4A, CMROS0
SAI, SA1, SA2, SA3, CSAIS0
TOY, TO1, TO2, TO3, CTMCS0
DHR, DH4, DH5, DH6, CDHRS0
FED, FE1, FE2, FE3, CFEDS0
AGR, AG1, AG2, AG3, CCAGS0
EJA, EJ1, EJ2, EJ3, CJETS0
HH0, H0, HH1, H1, HH2, H2
HH3, H3, HH4, H4, HH5, H5
HH6, H6, HH7, H7, HH8, H8
HH9, H9, PR09SW, PR25VF
PR12GP, MMW, SSD, PR09BB
Q01, P08BBB, SG, Q0
PR47FN, PR09FN, PR09FM, PR09FK

but how do I know my rate plan? too bad, you can not until the day u check in, it will show on the check in paper.

Shame!!!

starwood Q2 promotion is amazing!

2009-04-13T11:18:00.003-04:00

enrollment will open next week, here is detail, you are earning 1 free weekend night on every two paid stays, and weekend night can be redeem on CAT 6 properties.

Earning period, May 1st- July 31st
Burning period, May 8, 2009, and September 27, 2009.

weekend night is defined as Fri, Sat or Sun night.

I am expecting Hyatt Q2 promotion is fast free night

earn triple BMI miles with Hilton

2009-04-06T09:43:00.002-04:00

you need to register here, and stay btw April 1 and June 30, 2009, you will earn 3000 BMI miles per night and up to 9000 miles per stay in addition to ur regular hilton points.

one of the best offer to top off u BMI miles

Hyatt Program Benefits Improvement

2009-04-06T09:36:00.003-04:00

Hyatt just announce few changes in its Frequent Guest program, some highlights are

1 Redeem points for exciting rewards including free nights with no blackout dates
2 Stay connected with complimentary Internet access(Platinum and Diamond)
3 Enjoy the best room available including Regency Club™ or Grand Club™ rooms(diamond)
4 Treat yourself to a suite upgrade four times annually on paid room nights(diamond)

Free internet is a big plus to the program.

Hope other chains can match free internet benefits!

I am back!!!!!

2009-04-02T09:12:00.000-04:00

Finally back to home today after extensive travelling, will take a short break, then start posting again!!!

UA refare policy change effective March 20th, 2009

2009-03-21T09:08:00.003-04:00

UA is the only big six carrier still give full difference back if u find ur fare lower even after u book the ticket. However, this will be gone for ticket booked after March 20th, 2009 and will charge $150 for refare, which means they will only gave u fare difference-150, if the difference is less than $150, u get nothing.

here is link

Continental airline also matched Double Elite Qualify miles offer

2009-03-21T08:22:00.002-04:00

here is link, u need to register by june 15th, 2009, however, the flight doesn't have to be booked after March 20th,2009

United matched AA double EQM offer

2009-03-19T12:43:00.001-04:00

here is link to register.

offer is valid for flight btw March 19th-June 15th,2009 and after registration and new booking

Starwood March sale

2009-03-17T09:31:00.000-04:00

book here by March 23rd for travel through Sep 7,2009.

up to 50% off

AA double Elite qualify miles promotion is back

2009-03-17T08:48:00.004-04:00

They are running this promotion again this year and with longer duration.

Register here, offer valid for flight booked and travel btw March 18th-June 15th.

I don't have any plan travel back to states until late May, but may do a quick return in April from China for fun.

15% off on jetblue flights

2009-03-17T07:46:00.000-04:00

Via View from the wings

JetBlue is offering 15% off flights booked by March 24 for travel between May 4 and June 17, 2009 (excluding May 21-25) by using promo code AMEX15.

book at jetblue website.

Sorry for lack of updates!

2009-03-17T07:44:00.003-04:00

I had severe cold(yes, again) and still recovering now.

as for the stock market, it had a big bounce during the past week, but the bounce top should be made yesterday. we should see a waterfall soon.

Book award travel for 20,000 miles on United

2009-03-10T09:53:00.001-04:00

Reduced awards are available for travel March 9 through May 21, 2009. Book your travel between March 9, 2009 and March 18, 2009.for UA non-stop domestic award flights

link is here

It's so hard to find N fare on AA now

2009-03-06T14:33:00.003-05:00

N fare is the lowest upgradable fare on AA with EVIP certificate and price always very low, they used to put almost all cheap ticket under N class.

This year, lots of cheap fare is also available, but all change to Q or O class, which are not upgradable. The annoying part is they don't have option to search cheapest upgradable fare other than calling them.

Earn 30% bonu

2009-03-05T03:18:00.001-05:00

Not a great offer, but it is the best offer so far for AA miles purchase.

Link is here, do it before March 31st,2009

AA Executive Platinum(one world Emerald)have access to First Class Lounge

2009-03-03T00:33:00.002-05:00

Since this is my first year as AA Executive Platinum(one world Emerald), I thought the one world alliance benefit is similar to Star alliance, but it turns out to be a lot better. When I tried to enter Admiral club at ORD when connecting from Shanghai, the agent told me I can also use Flagship lounge around K19, I was surprised when I heard that.

Later I went to oneworld website and learned that as one world Emerald, I have access to all First Class and Business Class/Frequent Flyer lounges in addition to use First Class Check in counter. Those are the benefits you don't get as Staralliance Gold.

Still, both alliances are great and make Skyteam the weakest alliance.

BMI award redemption level increase effective May 1st,2009

2009-03-02T23:45:00.002-05:00

Via View from the Wings, Effective May 1st, 2009, BMI FIRST CLASS award redemption will increase by 25% and First Class award flights with Lufthansa will also incur a surcharge of 10,000 destinations miles for each one-way award flight.

First Class award flights	Miles only	Miles plus Cash
Current	x 2	Miles x2 Cash x2
From 1 May 2009	x 2.5	Miles x2.5 Cash x2.5

Not too bad at all consider BMI still offers the best rate on redemption and one way award for half RT. As for LH first class, BMI is not allow member to redeem LH first class award using C+P option, if the new surcharge of 10000 is for also good for C+P, that's acutally an improvement.

Still, no airline program can beat BMI diamond club

Will have some trip report soon!

2009-03-02T10:52:00.001-05:00

I am currently back to States for few days and will have some trip report once I got my camera later this week.

Earn triple miles on aa btw BOS-LAX/SFO/SAN

2009-03-01T01:35:00.000-05:00

Book your trip between March 2, 2009 and May 31, 2009
Register before your trip using promotion code BOS3X
Fly between March 2, 2009 and May 31, 2009

Offer applies only to AAdvantage members who reside in the U.S

I am still around!

2009-02-27T03:30:00.001-05:00

was sick last week and currently on the road, will have more update soon.

Starwood new yearly catergory change effect March 2nd

2009-02-20T00:38:00.005-05:00

Starwood just published new hotel category level for up coming 2009, due to US dollar appreciation, More hotels are moving down in category than up, this is really a great news.

In addition, they eliminate all peak season award level, so all category 5 need 12000 points, all cat 6 need 20000 and all cat 7 need 30000. More detail can be found here

They did the right thing.

I have not carefully review the list yet, but one of my favoriate shanghai property-Le Royal Meridien go up to Cat 5

Here is spreadsheet made by SC Flier shows all the changes as of March 2, 2009

A nice Hyatt bonus promotion for Northern California Properties

2009-02-19T14:41:00.005-05:00

book and stay btw now until Apr 30th, earn 5000 bonus at selected Northern California Properties, offer code NCAL5K

Although, you can only put one promotion code under offer code section when reserve the room, the hotel front desk is able to put three codes under offer code section. This is definitely combinable with G1/2/3/4 promotion. Just make sure u let them know when u checkout and double check all offer code is on ur receipt offer code box.

So if you stay at SFO airport propertty at $120 per night. you will get 5K+1K(assume G1)+2K(assume it's ur first 2 nights on night after night promotion)+1200(room rate)=9200 as a general member.

Not bad, isn't it?

20% bonus for AMEX Membership reward transfer to Delta

2009-02-19T12:09:00.001-05:00

From now to March 31st, transfer MR points to Delta and earn 20% bonus. You need to register here

25% off on All Virgin America Flights( Used already(

2009-02-18T07:56:00.001-05:00

book and fly anytime before April 1st, 2009, and enter the unique code [E769FC24]

Bonus miles to Beijing on United

2009-02-18T07:51:00.002-05:00

You need to register here, then book btw Feb 6th-Mar 2nd and fly btw March 2nd through Apr 30th, 2009.

earn 10,000 bonus miles for fares in United First (F or A); 5,000 bonus miles for select fares in United Business (C or D); 3,000 bonus miles for Z-class fares in United Business; and 3,000 bonus miles for select fares in United Economy (Y,B,M,H).

Delta buy miles 100% bonus promotion is back

2009-02-18T07:47:00.001-05:00

Buy Miles between February 15 and March 31, 2009, and we will give you a 100% mileage bonus with your transaction.

The link is here

Bonus from Delta Max Miles Promotion posted

2009-02-15T01:01:00.004-05:00

I mentioned the promotion here last year and today all bonus miles posted correctly.

305,000 in total, not bad!!

Finnair also has super cheap discount ticket to Europe from HKG

2009-02-13T08:32:00.002-05:00

Found this on finnair website, total cost is 5353 HKD(690USD) to pretty much anywhere in Europe, ticket is booked under R class, but for some reason R class is earning 100% on AA and also 100% elite bonus.

AA is offering super low fare from HKG-US or v.v, 616 all in

2009-02-13T08:09:00.003-05:00

I was trying to get a ticket from HKG back to states in May, but found this fare.

Valid for departure before Apr 30, max stay 30 days, from HKG-LAX is 616, from HKG-JFK is 709, must book before Feb 16th,2009. price are slightly higher from US

from HKG-NRT is codeshare with CX or JL, if you have AA EVIP upgrade certificate, u need to find a date with N class because some dates I looked have Q class.

UA is offering discounted award redemption to Europe

2009-02-13T08:04:00.002-05:00

The link is here, must book online

Economy Saver Awards available for 40,000 miles instead of 55,000
Travel now through May 14, 2009, except blackout dates April 6 through April 15, 2009
Valid on United marketed and operated flights only
All other standard Mileage Plus rules and restrictions apply

valid for travel to/from Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), Geneva (GVA), London (LHR), Moscow (DME), Munich (MUC), Paris (CDG), Rome (FCO), and Zurich (ZRH).

Holiday inn, Holidayinn Express and Crowne Plaza China 72 hours sale

2009-02-13T07:52:00.001-05:00

Got this email yesterday, from Feb 16th-18, book online to get special discount on HI,HIX and CP in China.

Here is the detail of promotion

Hilton Bora Bora Nui is available for award redemption now

2009-02-12T12:01:00.004-05:00

I mentioned here and here on new addition to Hilton family at French Polynesia, now they are available to redeem at 40000 points per night or 175000 per 6 nights, the room type is Lagoon View King/Twin and I am sure you will get a nice upgrade as Diamond member.

This hotel already has excellent upgrade for Spg Platinum when under SPG chain, under new hilton chain, I would expect the same for now, but after few more months, they probably will charge u for a nice upgrade like Conrad Maldive does.

almost finish my trip planning

2009-02-12T03:49:00.002-05:00

I will travel around southwest and central part of China in March, the trip will start from Shanghai and end in Beijing.

Shanghai-Hangzhou(car)-Lijiang(air)-Chengdu(air)-Jiuzhaigou(air)-Chongqing(air)-Yangzi river(cruise)-Yichang-Beijing(air).

Will stay in Westin Shanghai, Le Meridien Shanghai, Park Hyatt shanghai, Hyatt Regency Hangzhou, Sheraton Jiuzhaigou, Sheraton Chengdu, Banyan Tree Lijiang, Banyan Tree Ringha and River Explor Cruise.

Total time will be 1 month, then take a break in Beijing and plan my second trip in coming April.Can not wait......

Starwood Year end gift is here

2009-02-12T01:39:00.003-05:00

Unlike past three years, SPG platinum member got one 50%off award redemption and nothing for Gold. This year Platinum get $75 Gift check or one free weekend night and Gold get $25 Gift Check or 1000 bonus points.

I picked free weekend night and points for my wife.

Double Elite qualifing miles on US airways

2009-02-07T21:13:00.001-05:00

From February 3 - March 31, 2009, earn double elite qualifing miles on US airways, you have to register then book ur travel.

Amex introduces a new Hilton Credit and increases AXON award level

2009-02-07T21:03:00.003-05:00

I saw the discussion on flyertalk few days ago, the new card is called "Sunpass" card, which comes with $75 dollar annual fees.

The benefit includes

-Up to 40,000 Hilton HHonors® bonus points with first purchase — enough for up to five free nights
-Up to 20,000 HHonors bonus points with first eight Hilton Family stays charged to the Card during your first 18 months of Cardmembership
-HHonors Gold VIP status complimentary with your first year; to maintain thereafter, total eligible spend must reach $20,000 annually
-HHonors Diamond VIP status when your total eligible spend reaches $40,000 annually
-$75/year annual fee
-9 HHonors bonus points for every eligible dollar spent at participating Hilton Family hotels
-6 HHonors bonus points for every eligible dollar spent at gas stations, drugstores, and more
-3 HHonors bonus points for virtually every dollar spent elsewhere
-500 HHonors bonus points when you book online at any Hilton Family Hotel Website using your Card

I think this is a great card to have if you can spend enough money to get Gold or Diamond status.

In addition, as a Hilton Amex card holder, you can have AXON 4 nights award at any cat 5 or cat 6 hotels for 125,000 points. However, they adjusted this to 125,000 for 4 nights at cat 5 or 140,000 for 4 nights at cat 6.

Hilton extended its up to 50% off weekend sale

2009-02-01T12:06:00.000-05:00

As I expected, they extend this sale to Feb 12th,2009, with this promotion, Hilton Shanghai is only 440RMB per night on weekends

Life in China is sooooooo GOOOOOOOOD!

2009-02-01T11:35:00.002-05:00

Just back home now, feel so good, but almost everything is a lot more expensive than US, I mean, really, EVERYTHING.

I will do a lot of travel around China from March-May and will talk about more when I have time

AA buy mile 30% bonus Feb/Mar

2009-02-01T11:28:00.002-05:00

Purchase from here before Feb/Mar, this is the best deal for AA miles purchase so far.

You can now link your Delta and NWA account

2009-01-30T13:06:00.004-05:00

You can link them from here and transfer miles btw accounts instantly, but do note that transfer miles btw accounts doesn't extend u miles expiration on Delta.

This is a indirect way to transfer ur Amex Membership points to Northwest

Trip to Hong Kong on UA 869

2009-01-30T11:06:00.003-05:00

Upgrade on UA new Business class from SFO-HKG is extremely hard, Inventory Management people try to hold seats until last minutes. I checked in at LAX 4.5 hours prior to departure and the service director on site told me they only sold 22 seats in Business class and I was #4 on the waitlist, she couldn't understand why the seat still hadn't opened up.

After getting into LAX RCC around 4 hours prior to SFO-HKG departure, upgrade finally cleared. My flight from LAX-SFO scheduled for take off on 9:35 and landed in 10:55, which left me 1 hour for the connection, but after I boarded the plane, Capital annonced that there would be a delay due to air traffic control at SFO.

The plane finally landed at SFO GATE 90 on 11:33 am and flight to Hong Kong still scheduled for departure on time at 11:55 am at GATE G102. I run as fast as I can from the furthest gate in Terminal 3 to THE furthest gate in international terminal. Cabin door closed right after I step into the plane. Although, I finally made on board, I was really worried about my checked luggage.

The business seat itself is very good, lie flat bed and it does make a better sleep than 170 degree reclined seat. IFE system is running all the time, so u don't have to wait until take off to enjor ur entertainment. However, the movie selection is still not great, I have watched most of them already. No comments on food since I am still on diet. Overall, Not bad if u just want to have a very good sleep.

BTW, I was happy to see my checked luggage arrive with me. :)

New Three tier NWA redemption is not very bad yet!

2009-01-26T11:50:00.002-05:00

I mentioned here about new NWA three tier redemption chart, which is similar to Delta system. However, the intra Asia Economy and Intra Africa Economy/Business still remain as 20K and 25K/50K and agent still able to calculate award level manually, so redeem them ASAP if u want to go to these detinations.

Made few more award redemption today

2009-01-24T14:58:00.002-05:00

use 30000 BMI miles +105 british pounds for North America-Zone 8 one way business class award, whole process took less than 10 minutes, but they got my wife last name wrong, so had to ring back to correct it. Also, the taxes amount did not match to ITA, so will ring back tomorrow to ask for taxes detail.

In addition, redeemed 37000 km on Hainan Airline RT in F from SZX-PEK. was going to redeem from HKG-PEK, but Hongkong airline has blackout date until Feb 3rd, use SZX instead.

Hertz Top Tier-Platinum is on sale

2009-01-23T21:59:00.003-05:00

via View from the wing, Hertz is offering its invitation level only-platinum membership for sale at price of $1350 if u r Gold, or $1275 if u r Five Star $1200 if u r President Circle. The benefit includes vehicle airport delivery, guaranteed upgrade, extra grace period, etc

If u rent car every week and want to save time at airport like LAX,IAD, ORD, go for it.

AADER promotion bonus selection link is up

2009-01-23T21:39:00.001-05:00

You must select ur bonus by March 5th if u reached threshold and registered prior to June 15ht,2008.

The link is here

Membership Reward to Delta transfer 20% bonus

2009-01-22T14:08:00.001-05:00

The best airline program in China

2009-01-22T12:47:00.005-05:00

It is Hainan Airline, the forth largest ariline in China, aka Grand China airline for international route. Although, they are not part of any alliance right now, I am expecting it will join oneworld eventually.

they have following advantages:

the only airline sells YUP fare, F class with price of full fare Y

the only airline you don't need to go to ticketing office to get award ticket with passenger ID copy,everything can be done on the phone and soon online

only airline has personal entertainment system on international flight in every seats

180 degree C cabin seats for international flight, also used for SYX to PEK route.

has lowest award requirement. eg. from PEK-HKG in F only cost u 37000km Roundtrip.

Award seat is on request basis and it is very easy to get one, if u r Silver or Gold member, you can get free seats on almost any flights

and many more benefits that other big three airlines don't have.

我觉得海航是现在中国最好的航空公司，无论是从服务，里程兑换，还是飞机硬件，都比别的3家大公司快一步。虽然现在不是任何一个联盟的成员，但我估计迟早会加入寰宇联盟（oneworld)

超值商务舱的票，付全价经济舱，直接升级到商务舱
电话上就可以搞定里程兑换，不需要到订票处提供证件复印件。
国际航班上经济舱每个座位都又娱乐系统
180度的国际航线商务舱座椅，有时用三亚到北京的航线
里程兑换的要求最低，从北京到香港头等舱才37000公里往返。
里程兑换是申请制，很容易，如果是金银卡会员，就更容易了，基本什么飞机都又票放出来
还有很多其他的好处

Another Netflix signup offer from AA

2009-01-22T12:42:00.003-05:00

Earn 3,000 AAdvantage^® bonus miles when you join Netflix. Plus, earn an additional 500 miles after your third month of service. Offer ended on Feb 1st, 2009.

Booked my ticket to Hong Kong

2009-01-22T12:32:00.003-05:00

JFK-LAX(stopover)-SFO-HKG-SFO-LAX-JFK, total is $1017, not too bad consider inbound is 5 months later and a stopover in LAX and W class, which can be upgraded with my systemwide certificate.

I was looking for fuel surcharge buster to drop fuel surcharge, but my return is too far away, the buster route has not release any cheap ticket yet, adding buster route only pushed the price higher.

a not very good UA west coast Bonus offer

2009-01-15T15:16:00.004-05:00

Got this offer in my email today, you need to register here, then fly from SFO/LAX to listed destination below or v.v, valid only on tickets purchased between January 13 and February 9, 2009, for travel through April 30, 2009.

Los Angeles to or from:	San Francisco to or from:
Seattle	Seattle
San Francisco	San Diego
Boston	Boston

you will earn

Roundtrips in F,P,A,C,D,Z,Y,B,M,E,U,H,Q,V:	Roundtrips in W,S,T,L,K:
Fly 1, earn 1,500 miles	Fly 1, earn 500 miles
Fly 2, earn an additional 2,500 miles	Fly 2, earn an additional 1,000 miles
Fly 3, earn an additional 3,500 miles	Fly 3, earn an additional 1,500 miles
Total: 7,500 miles	Total: 3,000 miles

Hilton Refer your friend 2009 promotion is here

2009-01-14T17:22:00.002-05:00

If you are not member of Hilton yet and want to be referred by me, send me a email.

You will earn 1000 bonus points after two stays, better than nothing

1000 bonus miles for New AA enrollment

2009-01-13T13:29:00.001-05:00

I got this email today from mycoderewards.com, enroll AA program before Feb 28th,2009, u will earn 1000 bonus miles.

T&C:
Advantage® bonus mile offer is valid December 1, 2008 through February 28, 2009 and only for new members who enroll during this period. To earn the 1,000 bonus miles, you must enroll in the AAdvantage program at AA.com/enroll, then visit AA.com/offers and register with the promotion code that you receive upon redeeming this offer.

2009 AA Elite Status buy back Promotion

2009-01-13T11:01:00.001-05:00

the link is here, on Jan 22nd, All current AAdvantage Platinum and AAdvantage Gold members who earned their 2008 elite status^ are eligible to participate in this offer provided they have flown at least one elite qualifying segment during 2008. Members who participated in the 2008 offer are not eligible to extend their status through this offer for the 2009 membership year.

AAdvantage Platinum
40,000 Miles or Points or 48 Segments $549	Less than 40,000 Miles and Points and less than 48 Segments $649
AAdvantage Gold
20,000 Miles or Points or 24 Segments $349	Less than 20,000 Miles and Points and less than 24 Segments $449

Confirmed!!! No more free change on award ticket for Delta Platinum members

2009-01-10T21:07:00.003-05:00

I posted few days ago about Northwest move on this benefit and expected Delta to match. Today, I saw this program update on delta.com.

"Effective March 1, 2009, the redeposit and reissue fee for Award Travel will no longer be waived for Platinum Medallion members in an effort to preserve award seat availability for all SkyMiles members. Platinum Medallions have conveyed that making as many awards seats available as possible is one of the most important SkyMiles benefits. Many of these award seat bookings are held until the last minute and never flown. As a result, other SkyMiles members are unable to secure those seats. As a reminder, Platinum Medallions are not charged an Award Ticket Fee for reservations ticketed less than three weeks before travel."

This is bad, very bad!!!Free change can save considerable amount of money for Platinum members.With this change, I would say Gold level with them is more than enough, give ur money to programs that still offer ree change benefit for their Top Elite member.

Continental Airlines Program signup bonus

2009-01-10T20:17:00.003-05:00

via View from the wing, Continental is offering 2000 miles for new member who sign up before Dec 31st.2009 and 5000 extra bonus miles if u take a flight with them before Dec 31st,2009.

However, Offer is restricted to member reside in Mid Pacific, South Pacific, China or South Asia (excludes Japan). Residency is defined by the address on the OnePass account.

Not a bad offer, consider CO will join Star alliance by end of 2009, maybe is time for me to join them.

21000 Continental Miles with New Chase Checking Account

2009-01-09T20:48:00.004-05:00

From frugaltravelguy, earn 21000 miles when opening a new Chase checking account.

here is link, You need to refresh page to get ur own Coupon code.

To get first 10000, uou need a direct deposit from uremployer, SSN or other government benefits within 60 days of account opening.

Too bad, I don't qualify since I don't have payroll.

Hilton French Polynesia Properties Update

2009-01-09T20:08:00.002-05:00

I wrote New Hilton opening in French Polynesia here,

now, one of these properties website is up, Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa, as category 6 hotel. 40000 per night or 175000 points for 6 nights. Much better value than previous Starwood Category 6.

The "new" Bora Bora Hilton and Hilton Tahiti should be category 6 too because they all have HILTON name and there is no HILTON hotel above caterogry 6 unless branded as W=A.

15000 Priority Club points for DirecTV

2009-01-09T19:55:00.002-05:00

Link is here, don't know it's great offer or not, maybe good for someone.

BTW, points count toward Elite qualification.

Earn 3000 UA miles for Netflix signup

2009-01-09T19:51:00.002-05:00

This is the best offer so far WITHOUT mileage credit card requirement. Sign up here

10000 Delta miles for Brink Home Security system

2009-01-09T19:40:00.002-05:00

Installation fee $99 with free second keypad. You will get 10000 delta miles.

Here is detail.

Credit to"happydawn"

Hyatt and SPG Q1 promotion registration page are up

2009-01-09T11:10:00.003-05:00

I mentioned here about these Q1 promotions, Register here for SPG and here for Hyatt

Some New Delta Offers

2009-01-08T20:37:00.002-05:00

1. 2500 SkyMiles for Fiji Water order

Posted on slickdeals, Use code fijiblack for 40% off. Total $22.5

2 100% bonus for transfering miles is back

Got this offer in my email today, Delta is offering 100% bonus for buying miles btw Jan 1st-Jan 31st,2009.

3 Delta 2500 or 5000 bonus miles for Avis rental is back

Saw this on flyertalk, but I have not get email yet.

Here is the detail

• 2500 bonus miles valid on a qualifying rental of three consecutive days at participating Avis airport locations in the US and Canada. Please mention coupon number MUAA132 to receive bonus miles offer.
• 5000 bonus miles valid on a qualifying rental of four consecutive days or more at participating Avis airport locations in the US and Canada. Please mention coupon number MUAA133 to receive bonus miles offer.
• Bonus miles offer valid on all car groups.
• An advance 24-hour reservation is required.
• Offer may not be used with any other coupon, promotion or offer except your AWD discount.
• The savings of up to 25% applies to the time and mileage charges only.
• Taxes, concession recovery fees, vehicle license recovery fee, customer facility charges ($10/contract in CA) and fuel charges are extra.
• Optional items such as LDW ($35.99/day or less except in Louisiana $49.99/day) and other surcharges may apply and are extra.
• Offer may not be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer.
• Offer is subject to vehicle availability at the time of rental and may not be available on some rates at some times, including some online rates at Avis.com.
• Car rental return restrictions may apply.
• Offer subject to change without notice.
• Holiday and other blackout periods may apply.
• Renter must meet Avis age, driver and credit requirements. Minimum rental age may vary by location. An additional daily surcharge may apply for renters under 25 years old.
• Frequent flyer surcharge of up to $0.50 USD per day, may apply.
• Rental must begin by June 30, 2009.

AA citi Bank Credit card 30K Bonus Miles offer

2009-01-08T15:22:00.002-05:00

I got this offer in my wife email box, you will earn 30,000 miles after $750 purchase in first 4 months of account opening. This is a better offer than currently 25K listed on AA or citibank website.

However, the first year annual fee is not wavied for this offer.

ANA award redemption advantage

2009-01-08T11:59:00.005-05:00

I posted here last May about the advantage of ANA program. Yesterday, I saw an award itinerary held by "tiddy", which had 3 stopovers at TPA, ICN and NRT > 24hours and 2 connections < 24hours at KIX and FUK.

(SA)
TG630 Hong Kong Taipei 20:15 21:40 333 2 Economy 1 01:25
(MO)
TG634 Taipei Seoul(Incheon) 12:50 16:15 773 1 Economy 1 02:25
(WE)
OZ112 Seoul(Incheon) Osaka(Kansai) 10:00 11:40 333 - Economy 1 01:40
(TH)
NH423 Osaka(Itami) Fukuoka 11:15 12:25 76P - Economy 1 01:10
(FR)
NH252 Fukuoka Tokyo(Haneda) 12:15 13:55 773 D2 Economy 1 01:40
(TU)
OZ103 Tokyo(Narita) Seoul(Incheon) 15:30 18:10 777 1 Economy 02:40
(WE)
LH716 Seoul(Incheon) Shenyang 06:30 07:15 343 - Economy 1 01:45

Total cost for this trip in coach is only 22000 miles in Coach+$161 taxes and fees

I think this is the program where ur Amex Membership Reward points should transfer to.

Will Delta charge $100 dollar award cancellation/change/redeposit fees to their Platinum Elites soon?

2009-01-07T22:51:00.004-05:00

There is a discussion on Flyertalk about upcoming benefit change on Northwest airline Platinum Elite member. Effective March 1st, 2009, Platinum member need to pay $100 for award redeposit and reissue fees (formerly called change fees).

There is no announcement from Delta yet for this change, but Northwest will become Delta soon, so I am expecting Delta will have same change.

A big plus for being a top elite of each airline program is waiving those fees, if this benefit is eliminating, it will be a BIG disappointment for lots of people.

Earning change on Amex Hilton Credit Card

2009-01-07T22:44:00.002-05:00

I just notice this change, effective Jan 1st, 2009, you earn 6 points per each dollar at Grocery Store, Drug Store, Wireless, Cable, phone,internet bill, Gas station and Hilton Family Hotels instead of 5 points.

Restaurant and Postal Office charges are exclude from bonus list and no longer earn 5 points, only 3 points per dollar now. Everything else will earn 3 points per dollar.

Bye Bye Thankyou Network-The most rewarding Credit Card Program

2009-01-03T22:10:00.003-05:00

From March 1st, 2009, Thankyou network fixed flight award option will be discontinued, which means the most rewarding program for credit card spending will be gone forever.

With 90K fixed business class award flight option, I get approx 8.5%-14.5% back for every dollar I charged on my Citibank Credit Card. After March 1st, only flexible award option is avaiable which value 1 point = 1 cent. This will make the cashback for Citi credit card to 5% max when u use Citi AMEX PLAT at Grocery store, gas station and 3% for everything else and less cashback on other cards.

With discontinue of this option, Starwood Amex Credit card and Hilton Amex Credit Card are back to primary cards along with Citi PLAT Amex Card. Hilton Program is improving, so their points are value more than before.

Let's do some comparison here, If you charge 60K per year and 5K of them are from selected catergories such as Gas station, wireless bill, Grocery store and postal office.

You are getting

190K Hilton points if using Hilton card

190K Thankyou network points if using Citi Amex PLAT(I know there is 150K points annual cap, but let's assume you and ur spouse each has one)

60K starwood points if using Amex SPG.

190K can give you 6 nights free at some top Hilton resorts such as Seychelles, Mauritius, Maldive, Tahiti, Europe and 15K left over. Approx value > 2700 USD.

190K Thankyou network points can give 1900 Cashback on tickets or other gift cards. If you use 1900 to buy the ticket, the ticket will get miles, so assume you get 50K miles on these tickets, the value is 1900-210(2 cards annual fees)+1000(worth of miles)>2690.

60K starwood can get u 13 nights at Cat 4 hotels with C+P option, if each 4K worth at least 100, those 60K worth >1300. However, you can have option to transfer these points to airline on 1:1.25 ratio, which equals to around 70000 miles, Value of 70000 miles> 2000 depends on how u use them.

I personally value those points and miles higher than above estimate.

As you can see, there is no signifant difference on these cards, so all depends on which rewards program you want and flexibility of these awards. I would say, all three cards will be best cards now.

Northwest Award Redemption Level Changes effective Jan 15th

2009-01-03T19:36:00.003-05:00

Soon in late 2009, NW and DL will become one airline and Worldperks program and miles will become Delta Skymiles. In February, member of both programs can transfer btw their accounts without charge. However, in order to avoid taking advantage of lower award redemption fee and miles requirement with Northwest, NWA increases award level and fees to match with Delta skymiles.

The problem is, new chart is no longer showing travel btw Non US zone. I don't know what is the effect on new Northwest intra Asia award and intra Africa award. Previously, they were 20K/30K and 25K/50K for economy and business. If the change is identical to Delta, then award will increase 25K/30K for Asia and 50K/80K for Africa. I think the only way to find out is call them after Jan 15th.

2008 Year End Miles/Points Summary and 2009 Plan

2008-12-30T18:30:00.000-05:00

Here is my miles summary as of Dec 30st,2008

Airline:
United-1K: 300K
American Airline-Executive Platinum: 270K(still owe me 40K from Year end online mall)
Delta/Northwest-Gold(will drop to General Member next year) 745K(still owe me 255K)
US Airways-General Member: 90K
British Midland Airways-Gold: 150K
British Airways-20K
Czech Airline-General Member 40K
and more 200K in various airlines in China

Next Year Goal:
United-Plan to drop to Premier Executive
American Airline- plan to keep Exe Plat
Delta/Nowthwest-plan to get to Platinum
BMI-plan to keep Gold
All other programs will be remind as General member

Hotel:
Starwood-Platinum: 150K
Priority Club-Platinum: 500K
Hyatt-Platinum: 20K
Hilton-Gold: 350K
Choice Hotels-60K

Next Year Goal:
Starwood-Keep Platinum
Priority Club-Keep Platinum
Hyatt-Plan to get Diamond back
Hilton-Plan to keep Gold and working toward Diamond

All other programs will remain as General Member

Others:
80K Thankyou Network Points
$3400 AA Credit
2 SPG free weekend nights at any Cat 1-5 hotels
1 SPG free weekend at selected Asia Hotels
1 SPG free night at any Le Meridien
7 Unused Marriott nights at any Cat 1-5 properties
4 Hyatt free nights

Hilton up to 50% off sale

2008-12-29T21:43:00.001-05:00

Must book by Jan 31st, 2009 for stay up to Aug 2009, up to 50% on weekends. the link is here

US properties are excluded from this offer.

Also, don't forget double points offer

Few more Hilton Resorst will be opened and some top Starwood hotels are heading to Hilton Chain

2008-12-29T18:08:00.003-05:00

According to this website, Hilton will open 2 properties at French Polynesia in Feb 2009, one is Hilton Bora Bora Nui and another one is Hilton Moorea. Since there is no word of new construction of Hilton Properties, these two hotels most likely are taken over from Sheraton Moorea Lagoon Resort and SPA and Bora Bora Nui Resort and SPA.

Hilton has no blackout redemption like SPG chain and require much less points on these two properties, so this is actually a great move. However, I am sure New Hilton Bora Bora Nui will have similar retrictions on Elite benefits like Conrad Maldive when you reedem points, but it still a better value compare to SPG catergory 7 redemption. In addition, if you want to pay for the night, Hilton can get u to their Diamond tier by amount of spending($10000 in a canleder year), so a better option than SPG, where only nights/stays counts toward elite status.

Also, If I remember correctly, both hotels+St.Regis Bora Bora are owned by same person, so sooner or later St.Regis maybe rebrand to Hilton Family Hotels too.

Along with these two properties, the Westin Versailles in Paris will leave SPG and join Hilton as Waldorf=Astoria brand. It looks like Hilton is expanding its top chain to compete with others by offering lower Franchisee fees.

Start saving ur Hilton Points, you will have more better properties to use them.

Hilton, Marriott, Intercontinental, Starwood and Hyatt 2009 promotions are here!

2008-12-23T21:44:00.003-05:00

Hilton Double Base points Q1 2009:

Earn double points btw Jan 6 and Apr 6th,2009 at participating properties worldwide, must register here.

Marriott Mega bonus Spring 2009:
Offer valid between February 1 and April 30, 2009, you need to login your account to see which one you got, no need to pay with Visa card Here are some of them

2500 for each paid stay, beginning with the second stay. Max 25000 points
35K for 20 nights up to 50K total for 25 nights
25K for 15 nights up to 40K for 20 nights

If you are Gold member or above and do not like the promotion you received, you can call Marriott Reward desk to switch, as do it before promotion ends.

Intercontinental Priority Club up to 30,000 bonus points or 10,000 bonus miles:

From January 12 to April 30, 2009, earn 3,000 bonus points or 1,000 bonus miles for every 3rd qualifying night you stay, up to 30,000 bonus points or 10,000 bonus miles.

Starwood Night after Night:

Registration will be available on Jan 7th,2009. From Jan 7th to Apr 30th,2009. Earn 500 bonus points per night, and 5000 extra bonus for every 10th nights, no need to be consecutive and no upper limit for bonus.

Hyatt More Than a Bonus:
Between January 9 and April 30, 2009, up to 20000 bonus points

Stay two nights and earn 2,000 bonus points/miles
Stay four nights and earn an additional 4,000 bonus points/miles (totaling 6,000 bonus points)
Stay six nights and earn an additional 6,000 bonus points/miles (totaling 12,000 bonus points)
Stay eight nights and earn an additional 8,000 bonus points/miles (totaling 20,000 bonus points)

Registration link is not ready yet.