Navigating Travel Upgrades and Destinations

News, news, and more breaking travel news. There’s been so many big stories in the travel world lately, Gunnar and Kyle blew up the normal show format and spent the episode going beyond the headlines, breaking down everything you need to know. There’s more on new pricing shenanigans from airlines and Uber, the ins and outs of Alaska’s new loyalty program, a big upgrade for Google Flights, and much much more. 

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00:00 - A self-indulgent review of Gunnar’s favorite hotel in the world: Under Canvas in Glacier (now bookable with Hyatt points!)

05:13 - PSA: Global entry interviews are easier to find than ever

09:20 - Alaska/Hawaiian’s new award program and why we won’t call it by its name. Plus, the new Alaska/Hawaiian Atmos premium credit card and some new routes to Europe. 

17:40 - A leak of what’s coming for the Amex Platinum Card in September

20:50 - Chase-to-Emirates transfers have an expiration date

23:10 - A new worst way to use Delta SkyMiles – insurance!

25:10 - Google Flights adds a basic economy filter and unveils an interesting new AI function

31:20 - The data couldn’t be clearer: Book the earliest flight of the day to avoid delays and cancellations

35:40 - A word from our sponsor (us): Stay up on all the news with our free Daily Beat newsletter

36:30 - One simple choice for your Uber ride will affect your price

39:25 - The Amex Centurion Lounge in Dallas is getting a big expansion

43:00 - Delta and other airlines are overcharging for upgrades

48:00 - The Tulum bubble has burst as airlines keep pulling out 

52:10 - A listener wants to branch out from Delta but doesn’t know what card to start with

56:30 - On the spot: The biggest stories from Kyle’s career

Produced by Gunnar Olson & Nick Serati
Edited by David Strutt
Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot

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