Alaska’s Big Bet, Diamond Does Disney & More Thoughts on Hyatt.
Dec 7, 2023
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The podcast covers topics such as the Diamond meetup in Orlando, the changes in Hyatt's loyalty program, Alaska's acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, maximizing MX offers with the Max Rewards app, and rewards maximization and gratitude towards their Diamond members and the community.
The recent meetup in Orlando with MTM Diamond members was a successful and enjoyable opportunity for like-minded individuals to connect and experience the Disney parks together.
The recent changes to the Hyatt loyalty program were generally well-received, despite some disappointment over specific benefits being modified or removed. Hyatt remains committed to improving the program and providing value to its loyal members.
Deep dives
MTM Diamond member meetup in Orlando
The podcast host and guest discuss their recent meetup in Orlando with MTM Diamond members. They had a great time eating and drinking around the world at Epcot, visiting different attractions, and experiencing the Disney parks. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of bringing non-Disney enthusiasts to the parks and the surprises and enjoyment they found in certain attractions. The Guardians of the Galaxy coaster at Epcot was a crowd favorite. Overall, the meetup was a success and a fun opportunity for like-minded individuals to connect.
Hyatt loyalty program changes
The podcast hosts discuss the recent changes to the Hyatt loyalty program, including the introduction of new benefits and modifications to existing ones. While some members expressed disappointment over the loss of the Guests of Honor benefit or the limitation on free night certificates, there was an overall positive reception to the changes. The hosts highlight that Hyatt's focus remains on improving the program and providing value to its loyal members. They also discuss the impact of the changes on travel agents, with the introduction of World of Hyatt Prive and opportunities for earning elite qualifying nights through bookings.
Alaska Airlines' acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines
The hosts discuss Alaska Airlines' acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines and its potential impact. While there is excitement about the combination of these two major players in the Hawaii market, there are concerns about reduced competition and redundancy on certain routes. Nevertheless, the hosts agree that Alaska's commitment to improving its loyalty program and its history of customer-oriented service is a good sign for the future. They also touch on the possibility of future mergers in the airline industry, including a hypothetical combination of JetBlue and Hawaiian/Alaska.
MX offers and the value of cash bookings
The hosts mention the value of MX offers and the benefits of booking with cash rather than points in certain scenarios. They highlight the opportunity to save money through MX offers, such as the current offer for win or encore resorts in Las Vegas. Additionally, they discuss the benefits of booking cruises with cash instead of points, as cash bookings can often provide better value and flexibility. They also mention the usefulness of third-party apps like MaxRewards in maximizing MX offers and card benefits.
On this episode of the podcast Shawn and Joe recap the latest Diamond meetup in Orlando. They also discuss Alaska’s huge announcement and acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines plus Joe chimes in on the Hyatt changes announced last week.
Episode Notes
0:00 - MtM Diamond meetup recap and thoughts
7:50 - Hyatt changes
20:19 - Alaska buys Hawaiian
26:47 - Marriott/Celebrity
30:20 - Amex offers chat
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