As you have figured out by now, this will be a place for me to do my kinder, gentler rants/vents. Since this is a three part post, you can always skip this segment if you wish.
The term “sellout blogger” is thrown around a lot in this industry. Many times undeservedly. So, I was somewhat surprised when it was implied, that I was now one. As you may remember, I did a post highlighting “Card match” tool because I have received an email from my affiliate company, telling me to mention it in connection with Amex Gold Premier rewards targeted offer. By the way, I honestly consider it an excellent bonus.
As you could probably tell from the tone of the post, I didn’t particularly enjoy it. But I will do it again if they ask me to. As I have said before, this is a business, and there are certain obligations I have to fulfill. I may not like it, but I will go along as long as it doesn’t contradict my principles.
Yes, this hobby is dangerous and I stress that fact constantly. But at some point I have to trust my readers to make intelligent choices when it comes to their credit. Some in the industry may disagree with the way I do things, and I respect that. I try to be upfront and honest, which may come off as a bit unsavory.
Here are some things I will not do. I will not promote an inferior offer as long as I am aware of the better one. I will not withhold knowledge of a good bonus until it starts paying me, even if my company requires me to do so. I would rather quit writing this blog than do those things.
By the way, I got close to a hundred views on that particular post. Guess how many clicked and applied for Amex Gold as a result? Zero. Turns out, people aren’t stupid and won’t do something just because you tell them about it. In fact, you may be surprised, but most of my affiliate apps result on the days I talk about cards, that pay no commission. How about that? I think many times ( not always), correlation does not equal causation, when it comes to posts on affiliate cards and conversions. And no, I’m not a sellout. Not yet. 🙂
Trip report.
2005, Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada
This was one of our cruise stops along the Pacific coast. The city of Victoria is full of British influence. In fact, you can have high tea in it’s Empress hotel, just like you would in London. But don’t be fooled by it’s proper demeanor. Look at what Wilkipedia says about the city:
“In the latter half of the 19th century, the Port of Victoria became one of North America’s largest importers of opium, serving the opium trade from Hong Kong and distribution into North America. Opium trade was legal and unregulated until 1865, then the legislature issued licences and levied duties on its import and sale. The opium trade was banned in 1908.”
The most impressive attraction on Vancouver island IMO is the Butchart Gardens. They are spectacular! If you are into horticulture, you have to visit them at least once. We were there in May and the whole place was in bloom.
We also got to tour a Native American settlement and learn about the history of the island before the Europeans’ arrival. All in all, Vancouver island is a mix of Canadian ruggedness and a proper British attitude. A delightful mix!
Miles and points.
1) Via MMS blog, there is a working link for Hawaiian Airlines credit card from Barclay’s with a bonus of 35000 miles. CLICK for details.
2) It’s tax time ! I highly recommend, you read this excellent (and quite Kosher) post on Saverocity and specifically the section on Savers credit HERE It’s the single most overlooked credit, tailored to a middle class family.
It’s not too late to take advantage of it, since you can contribute to a Roth or Traditional IRA by April 15th, for year 2013. In fact, you can claim it on your tax return now and set up an account later, as long as it’s before the deadline. Traditional IRA can reduce your AGI (adjusted gross income) and allow you to qualify for Savers credit even if you currently don’t. Email me with any questions, since my background is in taxes. Alternatively, ask your tax professional.
3) You can still get up to 1000 Rapid Rewards points from Southwest, by signing up for account HERE
4) A good article on Frugal Travel Guy blog on tips to score cheap airfare HERE
5) Via Frequent Miler you can get 3 Delta Skymiles per dollar on a purchase of Amex gift cards. Might be worth it to top off an account. LINK
6) I highly recommend, you check out this post on Point Chaser on 2014 IHG Big Win plans with some helpful tips.
7) On a related note, View from the wing reports that you can get 8 percent cash back on IHG reservations through Ebates. I have a referral link in my “Support me” page, if you don’t have an account. Thanks, in case you use it.
8) Possible 50k offer on Capital One Venture card. Apply at your own risk. LINK to post on PFDigest.
P. S. I apologize for the lack of a Wednesday post. I have been very sick with strep throat and pretty much out of it for the last week.
Photo credit goes to plunkettgw.deviantart.com
Author: Leana
Leana is the founder of Miles For Family. She enjoys beach vacations and visiting her family in Europe. Originally from Belarus, Leana resides in central Florida with her husband and two children.
Hilde, I am glad you found it helpful. With this segment I try to search around the blogosphere and find things that relate to a family, like mine.
Thank you for linking to the various bloggers.