TMT News - Marriott Bonvoyed in Reverse, AA's Strict New Rules, Caesars Diamond Lost Alaska 100K & Downgrading!
Nov 13, 2024
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This week dives into some travel hot topics! Discover what Caesars Diamond status loss means for loyalty seekers. American Airlines introduces stricter policies to enhance passenger experiences. Alaska Airlines tempts with a massive 100K card offer. Explore Hyatt's expanding all-inclusive resorts and how Marriott is adjusting its loyalty program. Plus, hear about a bizarre car rental incident that had the police involved. Learn why downgrading credit cards might be a savvy strategy in the ever-evolving travel rewards landscape!
Hyatt's ambitious expansion of all-inclusive resorts signifies a competitive shift in hospitality, despite rising costs leading families to reconsider value.
American Airlines' new policies curtailing flight attendants' authority to remove passengers aim to enhance oversight and protect passenger rights.
Deep dives
The Rise of Hyatt All-Inclusive Resorts
Hyatt has significantly expanded its portfolio of all-inclusive resorts over the past decade, starting with the introduction of Ziva and Zalara, and acquiring numerous brands such as Dreams. As part of this expansion, Hyatt plans to add 24 new all-inclusive options through a partnership with Grupo Pinheiro, positioning itself as a major player in this market. While the variety is appreciated, the value of such all-inclusive offerings has declined, with higher costs per trip for families, leading many travelers to reconsider the benefits of these packages. Despite this, Hyatt's strategic growth indicates a belief that there is strong demand among a segment of consumers who favor all-inclusive vacations, marking a competitive shift in the hospitality industry.
Changes to Flight Attendant Authority
American Airlines has implemented new policies limiting flight attendants' authority to remove passengers from flights, aiming to ensure better oversight and consistency in decision-making. This change comes in response to controversy around the removal of eight African-American men from a flight over alleged body odor, sparking discussions about racial bias and passenger rights. Moving forward, only safety and security concerns allow flight attendants to act independently, while other issues now require corporate approval. This adjustment not only protects passengers but also supports flight attendants by providing clearer guidelines while addressing potential abuses of power.
Lucrative Credit Card Offers and Strategies
Current credit card offers include a significant 60,000 point bonus for the Sapphire Preferred card, which ends on November 14, along with a $300 travel credit, enhancing its appeal to new applicants. In addition, Alaska Airlines is targeting selected members with potentially unprecedented offers of up to 100,000 miles after certain spending thresholds, marking a shift in rewards strategies from Bank of America. Moreover, the discussion highlights the value in downgrading cards rather than canceling them, allowing consumers to maintain a longer credit history while accessing various rewards. These credit card strategies present valuable opportunities for savvy travelers to maximize their points and benefits.
Twenty Minute Travel News has now joined the MtM Podcast feed! You can catch this show each week right here in addition to the regular MtM Travel podcast or watch both shows on Youtube!
Episode Description
This week a number of stories broke including the death of Caesars Diamond status via the Wyndham Business Earner card. What does this change mean and what are your alternatives to gaining Caesars Diamond status now that the Wyndham option is gone. We also discuss AA's strict new rules for removing passengers and why they could mean a better overall experience. Other topics discussed include: Alaska's huge 100K offer, Sapphire Preferred 60K + $300 ending, Hyatt's AI expansion, Marriott's soft landing, how Choice is improving and why Hertz called the police on yet another customer. Episode Guide
9:40 Should you cancel that card? Why downgrading is a powerful strategy
12:17 Marriott Bonvoy soft landing returns
14:40 Choice Hotels makes enhancements including increased booking window
17:08 Caesars Diamond via Wyndham Business Earner is dead
19:35 Cool “S” - The largest indoor waterpark/rainforest in the world
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