Manufactured spending in this hobby is defined by buying prepaid money products and gift cards with the sole purpose of accruing points. Those cards are than liquidated and money taken out , so the only cost is fees on those products. I actually don’t participate in this activity for several reasons. But, I will save […]

As I mentioned in my “About” section, I will occasionally  highlight good deals in general, not just in travel world. Well, for those of you, who live near IKEA store, there is a chance to have a meal there for free. Apparently, when you sign up  for their catalog, they will send you a coupon […]

Update: This offer is no longer available. There  is  a lot of buzz  about Chase Southwest Visa with a limited time sign-up offer of 50000 Rapid Rewards after 2000 dollars in spending. And for a good reason: it’s a terrific value for a family like mine. But what about AirTran visa, that promises 32 credits […]

I primarily focus on economy flights, but sometimes an opportunity presents itself to fly in business class for not that much more in miles outlay. Today is such a day. My in-laws are thinking about going to Ireland next summer, so as a designated travel agent in the family, I did some investigating. The reason […]

My  main tool in the “travel almost free” arsenal is credit card bonuses. But I am not opposed to other ways of getting miles and points, and even buy them on occasion.  Therefore the reason for this post. There are rumors that US Airways and American Airlines will merge on November 1st. This is not […]

I am referring to my Chase Marriott visa. I have a real dilemma on my hands and have to make a decision soon. Last year I got Chase Marriott credit card mostly for the bonus. We got tremendous value out of it, booking award hotel nights for my parents in Moscow before and after their […]