1. Lots of drama with United Mileage Plus card over the last couple of days! As I wrote on Friday, the offer was increased to 55,000 miles (does pay me commission). Then later in the day PFDigest reported a superior offer that comes with $50 credit (does not pay me).
I’ve updated the info in my Bonus page as soon as I found out about it, as well as sent out several tweets. The point is: Always check that page before applying, as things in this industry change SO fast.
If you’ve already applied for the bonus without the $50 credit, you should print out the better offer page, and send a secure message to Chase, in order to match it. You will have a 99% chance of getting it, based on my prior experience. As of now, the end date for this increased bonus is September 2nd for both affiliate and non-affiliate offers.
2. Topcashback ( my link) is offering 3% cash back on Amex gift cards through August 10th. You can’t use any coupons or discount codes. (h/t Frequent Miler)
3. Southwest has extended its schedule through March 6th. Remember, they have added routes to Caribbean, so keep that in mind if planning your Spring Break vacation. (h/t Mommypoints)
4. Travelisfree has made an interactive map of Category 1 and 2 Hilton hotels, costing 5,000 and 10,000 points respectively. While there aren’t many Cat. 1 hotels in USA, there are quite a few Cat. 2. This could be of interest if you have relatives in that particular place.
It could also make a case for Hilton HHonors Surpass Amex that comes with 60,000 points sign-up bonus. Does not pay me commission and you can find the link in my hotel bonuses list. Read Travelisfree post HERE While you are on the blog, check out his excellent interactive map on IHG properties, sorted by categories.
Click here to view various credit cards and available sign-up bonuses
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.
Holly, we just got back last week from spending a week at the Sunspree in Montego Bay taking the direct flight from BWI on Southwest. We had a great trip and of course other than diving, horseback riding, Dunns River Falls and other activities we did there, everything was paid for with points. The Sunspree also threw in (2) 30 minute massages for the wife and I for being Plantinum. Gotta love the points game!
Oh, that’s great! I am so glad to hear that! We have fairly low expectations, so I’m sure it will be great for us. I’ve always wanted to take my parents to an all-inclusive resort and now is my chance!
Definitely a family friendly resort, as there were kids everywhere. With me was my wife and my 5 year old daughter and both absolutely loved it. We went to all of the reservation-required restaurants and all were good. They also have a very nice manager’s reception every Wednesday for the folks who booked with points and returning guests, I would recommend going to this. Best food on the property outside of the restaurants was the Jerk Hut, awesome jerk chicken and pork. If you have any questions, feel free to ask since I have the trip fresh in my mind and still missing Jamiaca.
@Holly and VAtraveler Heck, now I want to go too! Unfortunately, we are all booked up for next year. Sad face.
I am excited for August 25th, because that is when Southwest opens their schedule up to April 6th! I think we are doing IHG to Jamaica on Spring Break, but I have to see the flights first to know for sure! Love booking new trips!
Holly, Jamaica sounds like fun! Such a beautiful country. I looked at that all-inclusive resort you mentioned, I actually learned about it from your FTG post. It is a good deal on points, especially during winter.