Wonderland on Points | Credit Card Rewards & Budget Travel

There’s a brand-new premium travel credit card making waves, and it’s tied to one of the most consistently top-ranked airline loyalty programs in the U.S. — Alaska Airlines. In this Midweek Mini, Mary Ellen teams up with special guest Betsey from Become Travel Rich (formally Her Alaska Travels) to unpack the launch of the Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Card, a high-end addition to Alaska’s lineup that comes with a massive welcome bonus and some surprising perks.Together they dive into what makes this card different, including the new Global Companion Award, how it stacks up against Alaska’s existing cards, and which travelers will benefit most. They also cover details like earning categories, lounge access, fee waivers, and the quirks around status points and companion fares. Whether you’re loyal to Alaska, fly American as part of the OneWorld alliance, or just want to maximize miles on international trips, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to missFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoAffiliate LinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Ready to level up your hotel game? This week, Joanna and Mary Ellen are joined by Jenn from @Travel.More.Momma to dive deep into the IHG Rewards program — including the underrated perks that make it worth a spot in your wallet. From the fourth-night-free benefit to creative uses for free night certificates, we cover why even the no-annual-fee IHG card can unlock serious value.Jenn also shares her luxe kids-free getaway to the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa in Grand Cayman, complete with quirky Kimpton touches, poolside flags for cocktail service, and a little-known “secret password” for extra perks. Plus, we compare the Kimpton with another nearby budget-friendly alternative.If you’ve been sleeping on IHG, this episode will change how you think about free nights, point redemptions, and where to plan your next island escape.Facebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoAffiliate LinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Sending your child on a flight alone can feel overwhelming, but the major U.S. airlines each have their own unaccompanied minor programs designed to help. In this Midweek Mini episode, we break down the basics from American, Delta, Alaska, Southwest, and United so you’ll know what to expect when it comes to age requirements, fees, and policies.If you’ve ever wondered whether your child can fly solo — and how much it’ll cost — this mini-episode will give you the confidence to plan that trip.Facebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoMentioned in this EpisodeAmerican Airlines UM InfoSouthwest UM InfoDelta UM InfoUnited UM InfoAlaska UM InfoAffiliate LinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

What happens when you book a brand-new all-inclusive resort on points? Joanna is back from Cancun with the inside scoop on her stay at the Hyatt Vivid Grand Island — and spoiler alert: it was absolutely incredible.From smooth Southwest flights with the Companion Pass to standout dining, lively entertainment, unique room details, and even an airport horror story you WON'T want to miss, this trip had plenty of stories worth sharing. You’ll hear why she chose this resort, what it was like to stay at the Vantage Club level, the unexpected highlights along the way, and the smart packing choices that paid off.Most importantly, Joanna gives her honest take on whether the Hyatt Vivid Grand Island is worth booking — and what she’d do differently next time. Grab your sunscreen and earbuds, because this episode brings the sunshine straight to you.Facebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoMentioned in this EpisodeVisitax- OFFICIAL WEBSITEAmstar Hotel TransfersAffiliate LinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Big news for points collectors! Citi ThankYou Points are now a permanent transfer partner of American Airlines — opening up new ways to earn and use those elusive AA miles. We break down what this means for your travel game, the best Citi cards to maximize your earnings, and why the new Citi Strata Elite card is shaking up the premium travel card space.If you’ve been waiting for more flexible access to AA points — this is the episode for you. Learn about smart card pairings, welcome offers, and key perks to watch for before applying. Plus, get the scoop on Citi’s unique points sharing feature and whether this new high-fee card is worth it for your wallet.Don’t miss this quick update that could change how you plan your next trip!Facebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoLinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Mary Ellen’s back from London with three kids, a stack of memories, and a jaw-dropping redemption: five tickets to London for just 43,000 points and $0 OUT OF POCKET. In this episode, she shares exactly how she did it — plus the seat map trick that scored her extra legroom for free.We swap stories from our very different London adventures, from royal parks to hidden foodie gems, and even the small missteps that turned into unexpected wins. You’ll hear why economy might be the smartest play (even for long-haul), how to keep kids engaged without blowing the budget, and what not to miss if you’re planning your own UK trip.Whether you’re plotting your first trip to London or looking for fresh ways to stretch your points, this episode is packed with strategies, laughs, and plenty of inspiration.Facebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoEpisode SponsorFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Mentioned in this EpisodeChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksAero Lopa Seat MapsLondon PART 1 EpisodeMary Ellen's London AirbnbOther Links30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

***A quick note before we begin:This episode was recorded a few weeks ago, before the full extent of the devastating wildfires in Arizona became clear. At the time, we briefly referenced the situation, but we want to acknowledge that the destruction has since grown far more severe. Our hearts are with all those affected — the communities, first responders, and everyone impacted by these tragic events. We’re keeping Arizona in our thoughts and encouraging listeners to support relief efforts however they can.***We’re winding down our summer road trip series with an epic listener-submitted adventure through Arizona’s most stunning spots (thank you Maria!)—from Phoenix to Flagstaff, Sedona, and Page.Join us as we share highlights from this five-day, 800-mile trip filled with gorgeous landscapes, fun hotels (think Wyndham and Hilton), delicious local eats, and unforgettable hikes. Whether you’re planning a getaway or just love travel inspiration, this episode has plenty of tips for points, driving, and exploring the Southwest.If you’re dreaming of desert views and red rocks, this one’s for you!Submit Your Summer Road Trip Series Story HEREFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogVisit Sedona Facebook GroupFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoLinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Ready to level up your credit cards and travel rewards in 2025? In this episode we have two time guest Alli back to participate in a round table episode about our most recent cards. Alli shares her firsthand experience going after the huge 200,000-point welcome bonus on the Chase Sapphire Reserve Business card, weighing the steep $795 annual fee against valuable benefits like lounge access and travel credits. We unpack the challenges of Chase business card approvals, compare perks of popular cards like Amex Blue Business Plus and Chase Ink Business Unlimited, and share practical tips on maximizing points for everyday and big-ticket spending. Whether you’re new to business cards or a seasoned points collector, this conversation will help you plan smarter and travel further with points and miles.Submit Your Summer Road Trip Series Story HEREFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | Jo | AlliEpisode SponsorFirefly Recovery - Use code "WONDERLAND" for 15% off your orderMentioned in this episodeFavorite Baby/Toddler Travel ItemsEpisode 13- Paris on Points with AlliLinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

In this heartfelt midweek mini, Joanna and Mary Ellen open up about the deeper meaning behind points and miles — how these travel tools can bring joy and relief during challenging times. They share moving listener stories about caretakers and families who used points to create precious travel memories amid hardship, reminding us all why this podcast exists: to empower people to travel smarter and live fuller.Their guest Lindsay, a longtime friend and foster mom, joins the conversation to talk about how points helped her family carve out a much-needed mini escape during a difficult season of caregiving. From canceled trips to spontaneous getaways, Lindsay’s story highlights the true power of points beyond the glam.Then the duo dives into a practical, insider tip for Broadway lovers: the Broadway Direct app. Mary Ellen discovered this lottery-based ticket app that scores you deeply discounted tickets for top New York shows like Stranger Things and Death Becomes Her — often at a fraction of the regular price. They break down how the app works, how to navigate its quirks, and share their own winning experiences (including front-row seats and first-class flights!).Submit Your Summer Road Trip Series Story HEREFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoLinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

This week we sat down with the amazing Jen from @DiveIntoPoints to hear all about her incredible points-powered trip to Italy. She and a friend flew in style, stayed in dreamy locations across the country, and packed a lot into just nine days—without spending a fortune. In this episode, we talk through what it’s like to fly Emirates business class there and Emirates FIRST CLASS home (hello, shower in the sky!), how Jen planned the trip after a sudden change in plans, and what destinations made the biggest impact.We also get into which tourist spots felt worth the hype, which ones she might skip next time, and how she made the most of her time across Rome, Florence, Amalfi, and Milan. If you’re dreaming of Italy—or trying to decide where to go—this conversation is full of insight, inspiration and tips that’ll have you pulling up your points balances and looking at flights.Submit Your Summer Road Trip Series Story HEREFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoMentioned in this EpisodeFlorence MarketSan Marco RestaurantFetch AppKatie'a Travel Tricks Video (Free eSIM)TripItJen's Photography InstagramLinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!