Points Talk® with the Travel Mom Squad

Welcome back travelers! Today, we're giving you a glimpse into how we choose those fabulous, family-friendly hotels and resorts for our travels. It's all about blending fun, comfort, and adventure for the entire family. Join us, as we share some insights and our top picks that have made our family vacations truly special. Our journey in identifying the ideal family vacation spots is driven by a mission to find destinations that cater to both adults and children. For instance, the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach in California is a prime example. Its beachfront location, coupled with family-friendly amenities and proximity to Disneyland, make it a top choice for a diverse family experience. Venturing to Costa Rica, the Andaz Costa Rica stands out as a perfect balance of luxury and child-friendly fun. From its diverse pool options to the excitement of wildlife encounters, it exemplifies the kind of destination that appeals to all ages. We can't get over how amazing this resort is and cannot wait to go back!  In Hawaii, the Grand Hyatt Kauai caught our attention. Despite its less swim-friendly beach, the resort compensates with stunning pools and lush landscapes, demonstrating that the allure of a destination can extend beyond the typical beachfront criteria. Texas offers the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, a resort that combines the tranquility of the countryside with a plethora of activities like water slides and horseback riding, making it an ideal choice for action-packed family getaways. Lastly, the Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman has all the versatility needed for family travel. Balancing kid-friendly activities with adult luxuries, it's a splurge-worthy destination offering exceptional experiences. In this episode, we dive deeper into how each of these resorts offers something unique, ensuring memorable family vacations. Hit play now to learn how to plan that perfect family getaway! Plus, follow the links below if you want to get there for nearly free. :)    Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Andaz Costa Rica Grand Hyatt Kauai  Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Kimpton Seafire Hyatt Ziva Cancun   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction To Our Favorite Family-Friendly Hotels/Resorts 01:18 Exploring the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach 03:50 Delicious Breakfast at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach 05:10 Discovering the Andaz Costa Rica 08:37 Additional Activities at Andaz Costa Rica 10:33 Experience at Grand Hyatt Kauai 12:24 Comparing Grand Hyatt Kauai and Hyatt Regency Maui 14:42 Unveiling the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines 17:08 Activities at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines 19:14 A Non-Hyatt Option: Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman 19:57 Maximizing Your Hotel Stay with Points 20:19 Making the Most of IHG Points 20:51 Benefits of Booking Multiple Nights 22:50 Hotel Location and Amenities 23:16 Family-Friendly Features and Activities 23:51 Water Activities and Kids Club 25:07 Resort Fees and Inclusions 25:26 Overall Experience and Recommendations 31:54 Honorable Mentions: Other Great Family Hotels 36:39 Future Family Vacation Destinations  

Q&A With TMS! Today, we're getting personal and interactive by answering your questions. We've gathered a fantastic collection of questions from our Instagram stories, and we got to answer as many of them as we could in this episode!  Here is just a sneak peek at some of the tips and tricks we cover:  We tackle common dilemmas such as being an authorized user on a credit card and still wanting to snag the welcome offer.  We also address the post-welcome offer phase—what do you do with your credit cards then? Close them? Keep them open and pay the fee for another year? Something else? We dive into questions asked about our planning process—do we choose our destinations first, or do we follow the deals? We share our mixed approach of meticulous planning and spontaneous deal grabbing, like the amazing flight sale to Singapore we couldn't resist! A significant part of our discussion revolves around managing annual fees and maximizing the value of our points. So, we decided to open up about our strategies and experiences, demonstrating how to make the most out of those points and miles. And finally, we just couldn't wrap up this Q&A episode without sharing some of our proudest moments. Are you ready for tips, insights, and more?  Hit play and join us for a deep dive into the art of award travel!    Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 01:15 Answering Your Questions: Credit Card Usage 03:39 Answering Your Questions: Strategy After Redeeming Points 08:12 Answering Your Questions: Choosing Destinations vs. Following Deals 12:49 Answering Your Questions: Saving Points vs. Earning and Burning 17:46 Answering Your Questions: Expenses Not Covered by Credit Cards 22:09 Answering Your Questions: Business Cards for 5/24 25:44 Answering Your Questions: Annual Fees 29:31 Our Proudest Moments in Traveling On Points  

Today, we're peeling back the curtain on the Travel Mom Squad – sharing the story of our humble beginnings, the engine that keeps our mission running, and some golden insights for those of you dreaming of starting your own venture. Travel Mom Squad sprouted its roots back in December 2018, with Alex at the helm. Spotting a gap in the award travel community, particularly a lack of family-oriented resources and female perspectives, she set out to create a platform that addressed these voids. Fast forward, we all joined forces, pushing Travel Mom Squad from a passion to a potential business! Running the Travel Mom Squad isn't just about sharing travel tips; it's a business sustained by affiliate links and course sales, like our Award Travel Academy.  But at the core of it all is our passion for traveling on points and the joy of helping others travel more for less. This passion is the lifeblood of our blog posts, podcast episodes, and every piece of content we create! For those aspiring to start their own business, our journey is a true example of how you can turn your passion into a thriving business. We encourage you to learn, grow your email list, and follow your passion – it's the surest path to success. So, are you ready for a behind-the-scenes look into the Travel Mom Squad (and maybe even find inspiration for your own entrepreneurial journey)? Hit play and join us as we explore the business side of award travel! Here's to a journey filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable travel experiences. Happy travels in 2024!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Webinar: How to Get Paid to Travel Without a Big Following: https://www.macs-explore.com/alex2  Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Today's Episode, All About the Business Side of the Travel Mom Squad! 01:04 The Origin Story of the Travel Mom Squad 03:14 The Challenges and Triumphs of Starting a Business 04:16 The Role of Family in the Travel Mom Squad 06:46 The Birth of Made Possible by Points 10:19 The Merger of the Travel Mom Squad and Made Possible by Points 15:41 The Business Side of the Travel Mom Squad 32:04 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Business Owners 38:20 Final Thoughts and Motivation to Start Your Own Business!  

Feeling a bit baffled by the twists and turns of credit card applications and rewards? You're definitely not alone in this journey! With a myriad of cards, rules, and unexpected hurdles, the path to becoming a savvy traveler can seem daunting. But fear not, we're here to guide you through the maze with ease! In today's episode, we look into the common challenges and mysteries that many of us face when traveling on points and miles. We're breaking down the complexities of pending applications, credit card denials, and the strategies for turning these seemingly setbacks into exciting opportunities. Whether it's understanding the nuances of a pending application, tackling a denial head-on, or making the most of a reconsideration call, we've got the inside scoop for you. Our conversation is filled with practical advice and real-life stories to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of points and miles. If you're aiming to make 2024 a year filled with rewarding travel and smart choices, this is a conversation you can't miss! So, what are you waiting for? Hit play and join us in this impactful episode. Start turning your travel challenges into triumphs. And remember to check out our free masterclass below, where we share even more tips and tricks to make 2024 a year of incredible, nearly free travel adventures. Happy traveling, and here's to unlocking more of the world in 2024!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Beginner's Guide to Travel on Points:  https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/beginnerguide   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction to Credit Card Denials and Pending Applications 00:48 Understanding the Stress of Credit Card Denials 01:14 Dealing with Pending Applications 01:20 The Reality of Pending Applications 02:42 Options When Your Application Goes Pending 05:33 Personal Experiences with Pending Applications 08:09 Providing Additional Information for Verification 13:06 Dealing with Denials and Reconsideration Calls 20:05 Sharing Personal Experiences with Denials 30:15 Understanding Retention Offers 38:50 Final Thoughts On Dealing with Pending Applications and Credit Card Denials  

Interested in traveling on points and miles but find it a bit overwhelming? You're not alone. With so many cards and rules to consider, it can feel like a daunting task. But don't worry, we're here to help simplify it all for you! In this episode, we're tackling the most common pain points, making the journey into this exciting world more accessible and less intimidating. We demystify the complexities of booking with points. Whether it's the best time to book, understanding the points needed for different trips, or the art of finding award flights, we've got you covered.  Each traveler's approach is unique, and we're here to show you how flexibility and a personalized strategy can lead to incredible travel experiences. Whether you're after simplicity or the highest value per point, aligning your tactics with your travel goals is crucial. One concern many award travelers share is the fear of running out of credit card options. We address this by sharing sustainable strategies and insights into the ever-evolving world of travel credit cards. Plus, we offer tips for beginners feeling overwhelmed, emphasizing the importance of starting small and gradually building your skills. This episode is packed with actionable advice and real-life examples to help you navigate the points and miles landscape. If you're looking to make 2024 a year filled with adventure and smart travel choices, this conversation is a must-listen! So, why wait? Hit play to join us on this exciting episode and start turning your travel dreams into reality. And don't forget to check out our free masterclass below, offering even more insights to help make 2024 your year of unforgettable, nearly free travel. Happy traveling and here's to exploring more of the world in 2024!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Beginner's Guide to Travel on Points:  https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/beginnerguide Travel Freely App: https://my.travelfreely.com/app_store?bref=hms    Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction to the Most Common Pain Points  01:21 Understanding the Basics of Booking in Advance 05:58 How Many Points Do You Need for a Trip? 11:28 Mastering the Art of Award Searches 18:29 Maximizing the Value of Your Points and Miles 23:44 Addressing the Fear of Running Out of Cards 28:33 How to Stay Organized and Not Become Overwhelmed  38:02 Encouragement and Next Steps to Stress-Free Travel!  

Today, we are diving into our 2024 travel plans and card strategies for maximum adventure. Traveling on points and miles can turn your dream vacation into an unforgettable family trip for nearly free! As 2024 unfolds, we are buzzing with excitement, sharing our insights on top card picks. Each card, carefully chosen, mirrors our unique travel aspirations! It doesn't matter what your goals are; points and miles can help get you there. Our travel plans for 2024 are as diverse as they are exciting. From the historical charm of Scotland to the modern marvels of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, and even a fantasy getaway to Bora Bora, our itinerary showcases the wide variety of experiences you can have with enough points and miles. In this episode, we also talk about points balance, our personal points reserves, and how they influence our travel decisions. This insight is invaluable for anyone looking to build an effective points strategy in 2024 and beyond! So, are you ready to embark on an exciting journey this year? Press play to hear the full episode, and join us as we explore the most rewarding ways to travel for less! P.S.—Don't forget to check out our free Masterclass below for more tips on making 2024 your year of nearly free travel. Here's to making incredible memories and unlocking new horizons in 2024 – happy travels!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Ultimate Guide to Hyatt:   https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/ultimatehyatt   Episode Minute By Minute: 01:11 Unveiling Our Top Card Picks for 2024 02:36 Alex's Exclusive Card Strategy for the Year Ahead 03:33 Pam's Personalized Card Tactics for 2024 07:10 Jess's Journey: Where Will 2024 Take Her? 09:28 Alex's Dream Destinations for 2024 15:33 Pam's Ultimate Travel Wishlist for the Year 22:47 2024's Most Awaited Travel Experiences 23:56 The Inside Scoop on Planning Our Singapore Adventure 28:51 Exploring the Possibilities: Where Might 2024 Take Us? 30:30 Family Travel Fantasies: Planning Ahead for 2024 35:51 Mastering the Art of Points & Miles Stockpiling 36:06 Setting Goals: Our Points Earning Strategy for 2024 37:41 Revealing Our Current Points We've Collected  

Today, we're recapping the incredible adventures of 2023, showing you just how limitless your travel possibilities can be with some clever strategies! 2023 has been a year of remarkable journeys and outstanding savings, all thanks to the art of traveling on points. As we scroll through our camera roles, we can't believe everywhere we have been! It's been a rollercoaster of accumulating and redeeming points and miles, and we can't wait to share the highlights with you! So, let's talk about the credit cards that have been our golden tickets to these adventures. This year, we've outdone ourselves, opening more cards than ever before. Just imagine, Jess alone raked in over 2 million points from welcome offers! We dive into the specifics of managing our credit portfolios, sharing insights on the cards we've canceled or downgraded. Remember, our level of activity is intense, but everyone's points journey is unique, and we encourage you to find your rhythm. Now, let's whisk you away on our 2023 travel escapades. We're talking about luxurious trips to Australia and Italy, fun-filled family trips to Hawaii and Cancun, and more – all booked with points and miles. Each destination was a new story, from the spectacular Emirates first-class flights to the delightful experiences at all-inclusive resorts. In this episode, we're not just sharing destinations; we're opening up a world of possibilities with traveling on points and miles. If you're intrigued about how to travel more for less, don't miss our free masterclass (linked below)! So, are you ready to be whisked away on a journey of incredible travels and smart point spending? Hit play and join us as we transform travel dreams into awe-inspiring realities. Here's to making each trip an adventure of a lifetime! Safe travels!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 01:39 Year of the Inks: A Deep Dive!  02:02 Co-Branded Cards: Explore How Co-Branded Cards Opened Doors to New Possibilities  02:23 IHG Card: A Game-Changer 03:05 Venture X and Freedom Unlimited: Power Duo!  04:39 Credit Card Time Travel: We revisit our Credit Card History 07:36 Pam Shares Her Unique Credit Card Tactics  10:28 Strategic Exits: Gain insight Into Our Smart Decisions On Which Cards to Keep  20:52 Swiss and Italian Escapes! Relive Our Journeys to Switzerland and Italy 21:32 Californian Coastal Retreats: Where the Ocean Meets Luxury! 22:36 Texas and Cancun: Texas and the Tropical Paradise of Cancun 23:13 Dreaming Ahead: Future Travel Plans! A sneak peek into 2024 25:17 London and Swiss Trips! Take a glimpse into our stays in London and Switzerland 26:47 Costa Rica to Salt Lake City 28:02 Maldives and Miami Adventures 28:56 Reflecting on 2023: Reflect with us on the year's most memorable travel experiences 34:58 Explore how we maximized value and minimized cost in our most economical trips in 2023  

In this podcast episode, Alex and Pam are setting our sights on the stunning Maldives—a dream destination that might seem out of reach but is surprisingly attainable with savvy points and miles techniques! The Maldives, with its peaceful islands and crystal-clear waters, is the perfect example of a tropical paradise. Each resort offers an exclusive retreat into luxury and serenity. Imagine snorkeling in vibrant reefs and basking in the endless sunshine, all in the comfort of a secluded haven. Traveling to the Maldives is an adventure in and of itself. Utilizing points and miles, you can embark on a flight that is both comfortable and economical. By choosing the best airline options and being flexible with your travel plans, we show you how you can transform your trip. Staying at the exquisite Le Meridien Maldives, a Marriott jewel, is always a highlight! Booking entirely with Marriott points, this property epitomizes the luxury Maldivian experience with its iconic overwater villas. Thanks to Marriott's dynamic pricing, a night here can range from 52,000 to 70,000 points, offering incredible value for such luxury. The Maldives isn't just about where you stay; it's about embracing the entire experience. From dining to leisure activities like paddleboarding or resting in the serene beauty of the shores, every aspect is a testament to the joys of travel. The privacy and peace we experienced were beyond comparison – it was like having our own slice of paradise. Exploring the Maldives is a shining example of the wonders of traveling on points. We maximized our credit card points, chose the best airlines, and leveraged hotel loyalty programs to turn a dream destination into a memorable reality.  Inspired to embark on your own Maldivian adventure? Hit play to discover how you can make it happen. Let's turn those travel dreams into realities! Safe travels!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Travel Zoo: https://www.travelzoo.com/   VIP Traveler: https://viptraveler.com/home?access_token=iFV8uYTWx69r6Yia  Sun Siyam: https://www.sunsiyam.com/  Le Meridien Maldives: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mlemd-le-meridien-maldives-resort-and-spa/rooms/  Park Hyatt Maldives: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/maldives/park-hyatt-maldives-hadahaa/mldph  Alila Maldives: https://www.alilahotels.com/kothaifaru-maldives/rooms/  Hilton Conrad Maldives: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mlehici-conrad-maldives-rangali-island/    Episode Minute By Minute: 01:53 Understanding the Maldives: Where is it Located?  05:09 Traveling to the Maldives: Flight Options 05:51 Booking Flights with Points and Miles 10:10 Experiences with Qatar Airways 13:29 Experiences with Singapore Airlines 20:47 Arriving in the Maldives: Seaplane Experience 24:57 Accommodation Options in the Maldives 26:37 Experience at Reethi Faru Resort: A Luxurious Escape   27:05 Booking Siam World through VIP Traveler 27:44 Tips for Financing Your Trip to the Maldives 29:13 Hear Our Impressions of the Siam World Resort 30:35 Stay at the Le Meridien Maldives 45:23 Options at the Hilton Conrad Maldives 48:29 Comparing the Maldives and Bora Bora  

In today's episode, we're diving headfirst into World of Hyatt's Globalist status. It's no secret that we have a bit of a love affair with Hyatt's loyalty program, and in this episode, we're spilling all the details on why this particular status holds a special place in our points and miles hearts. What exactly is Hyatt Globalist status, and why are we so enamored with it? Simply put, it's the pinnacle of Hyatt's loyalty program, offering a plethora of benefits that can transform a regular hotel stay into a luxury experience. From free breakfasts for the entire family to room upgrades and late checkouts, the perks are generous and can add significant value to your travels. But let's talk about how one earns this coveted status. The traditional route requires either 60 qualifying nights at Hyatt properties or accumulating 100,000 base points. However, let's not overlook the power of Hyatt credit cards in this equation. These cards can significantly lower the barrier to achieving Globalist status by offering qualifying nights as part of their benefits. During our episode, we shared our personal experiences with Hyatt Globalist status and how we've leveraged credit card spending, strategic booking, and even the occasional 'mattress run' to maintain our status. Whether it's the little things like enjoying a peaceful breakfast with our families or the luxury of sprawling out in a suite upgrade, these experiences have solidified our loyalty to Hyatt. But here's a crucial point: while we're huge proponents of Hyatt Globalist status, it may not be the right fit for everyone. It all boils down to how often you travel and where you stay. If your travel style aligns with what Hyatt offers, then pursuing Globalist status can be incredibly rewarding. This episode wasn't just about sharing our tips and tricks; it's about showing you the potential of points and how it can unlock experiences you might have thought were out of reach. If you're intrigued and want to dive deeper into Hyatt Globalist status, hit play to listen to the full episode. Remember, the world is waiting for you to explore it – one Hyatt stay at a time!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Changes to Hyatt's Loyalty Program Ultimate Guide to Hyatt:   https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/ultimatehyatt Hyatt Corporate Elite Tier Offer   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode, All About the Hyatt Globalist Status! 01:18 How to Qualify for Hyatt Globalist Status 02:58 Earning Qualifying Nights with Hyatt Credit Cards 05:04 Understanding the Hyatt Points System 05:40 Strategies for Earning Hyatt Globalist Status 07:48 Perks of Hyatt Globalist Status 16:42 Favorite Perks of Hyatt Globalist Status 21:07 Changes to Hyatt's Milestone Rewards Program 22:51 Understanding the New Milestone Rewards 31:47 Choosing Between Points, Upgrade Awards, and Experience Credits 32:09 The Impact of Future Travel Plans on Reward Choices 33:38 The Perks of Guest of Honor Awards 35:12 The Advantages of Hyatt Concierge 38:40 Exploring the Concept of Mattress Runs 46:50 The Pros and Cons of Fast Track Challenges 51:04 Deciding if Globalist Status Makes Sense for You!  

This week, we're diving into the captivating world of Istanbul, where every turn is a discovery and every moment an adventure. Jess and Pam have been there, explored its wonders, and are thrilled to show you how to experience this magical city using the clever art of traveling on points and miles. Picture this: You're cruising high above, nestled in business class, sipping a welcome drink, en route to an unforgettable Istanbul escapade. Jess has got the scoop on snagging those coveted business class seats using airline miles, ensuring your journey is as enchanting as the destination. Utilizing credit card miles, your dream flight to Istanbul is closer than you think. Istanbul's accommodations aren't just places to rest; they're part of the experience. Hear Jess rave about her experience at the Park Hyatt Istanbul. Transferring Hyatt points between friends allowed her and three girlfriends to stay for $0! We also share Jess and Pam's contrasting experiences with the traditional Turkish Hamam, a story you won't want to miss!  Istanbul is full of experiences! Whether you're soaking in the history at the Hagia Sophia, wandering through the bustling Grand Bazaar, or cruising the Bosphorus, Istanbul's allure is endless. And with our insider tips, you'll enjoy these wonders while making savvy use of your travel budget. This might all sound like a dream, but it's all within reach, thanks to points and miles. Ready to embark on an Istanbul adventure like no other? Press play on this episode, and let us take you through the mesmerizing streets of Istanbul, showing you how to make your travel dreams a reality, without stretching your wallet. Happy travels!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Find Traci (Jess's points guru) on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/practicalpointstravel/ Kılı� Ali Paşa Hamam Must Do Attractions and Hidden Gems of Old City Bosphorus Sunset Cruise  Park Hyatt Istanbul  inDrive App   Episode Minute By Minute: 01:11 Planning the Trip: Choosing the Destination 01:49 Booking the Flights: Our Top Strategies 03:05 The Benefits of Getting Friends into Traveling On Points 04:55 Booking the Flights: Using Points and Miles 07:50 Arriving in Istanbul: First Impressions and Transportation 10:28 Accommodation: Staying at the Park Hyatt Istanbul 17:41 Exploring Istanbul: Location and Accessibility 18:49 Navigating Istanbul: Public Transportation and Taxi Apps 22:05 The Hamam Experience: Pam's Hilarious Story  25:48 The Hamam Experience: Jess's Story 30:47 Exploring Istanbul: Guided Tours and Sunset Cruises 34:51 Istanbul: A Family-Friendly Destination 35:24 Traveling with Friends: The Benefits of Shared Experiences 36:05 Conclusion: Istanbul, A Must-Visit Destination